fQlffoE
njMfBH
PREFACE.
By an act approved June 23, 1874, Congress made an appropriation
« to enable the Secretary of War to begin the publication of the Official
Becurds of the War of the Rebellion, both of the Union aiid Confed
erate Armies," and directed him "to have copied for the Public Printer
all reports, letters, telegrams, and general orders not heretofore copied
or printed, and properly arranged in chronological order."
Appropriations for continuing such preparation have been made from
time to time, and the act approved June 16, 1880, has provided " for
the printing and binding, under direction of the Secretary of War, of
ten thousand copies of a compilation of the Official Kecords (Union and
Confederate) of the War of the Rebellion, so far as the same may be
ready for publication, during the fiscal year"; and that " of said num
ber, seven thousand copies shall be for the use of the House of Repre
sentatives, two thousand copies for the use of the Senate, and one
thousand copies for the use of the Executive Departments."*
This compilation will be the first general publication of the military
records of the war, and will embrace all official documents that can be
obtained by the compiler, and that appear to be of any historical value.
'Volumes I-V distributed under act approved June 16, 1880. The act approved
August 7, 1882, provides that —
"The volumes of the Official Records of the War of the Rebellion shall be distributed
as follows : One thousand copies to the Executive Departments, as now provided by
law. One thousand copies for distribution by the Secretary of War among officers of
the Army and contributors to the work. Eight thousand three hundred copies shall
be sent by the Secretary of War to such libraries, organizations, and individuals as
may be designated by the Senators, Representative^, and Delegates of the Forty-
seventh Congress. Each Senator shall designate not exceeding twenty-six, and each
Representative and Delegate not exceeding twenty-one of such addresses, and the
volumes shall be sent thereto from time to time as they are published, until the pub-
lication is completed. Senators, Representatives, and Delegates shall inform the
Secretary of War in each case how many volumes of those heretofore published they
have forwarded to such addresses. The remaining copies of the eleven thousand to
be published, and all sets that may not be ordered to be distributed as provided
herein, shall be sold by the Secretary of War for cost of publication, with ten per
cent, added thereto, and the proceeds of such sale shall be covered into the Treasury.
If two or more sets of said volumes are ordered to the same address, the Secretary of
War shall inform the Senators, Representatives, or Delegates, who have designate*
the same, who thereupon may designate other "libraries, organizations, or individual*,
The Secretary of War shall report to the lirst session of the Forty-eighth Congro
what volumes of the series heretofore published have not been furnished to s
libraries, organizations, and individuals. He shall also inform distributees at whose
instance the volumes are sent."
1V PREFACE.
The publication will present the records in the following order of
arrangement :
The First Series will embrace tlie formal reports, both Union and Con
federate, of the first seizures of United States property in the Southern
and of all military operations in the field, with the correspond
ence, orders, and returns relating specially thereto, and, as proposed, is
to be accompanied by an Atlas.
In this series the reports will be arranged according to the campaigns
and several theaters of operations (in the chronological order of the
«-\vnts). and the Union reports-of any event will, as a rule, be imme.
diately followed by the Confederate accounts. The correspondence, &c.,
not embraced in the "reports" proper will follow (first Union and next
Confederate) in chronological order.
Tin* Second Series will contain the correspondence, orders, reports, and
returns. ( nion and Confederate, relating to prisoners of war, and (so
iai as the military authorities were concerned) to State or political
priaoi
Tlie Third Series will contain the correspondence, orders, reports, and
returns of the Union authorities (embracing their correspondence with
the Confederate officials) not relating special ly to the subjects of the
»nd series. It will set forth the annual and special reports
of the Secretary of War, of the General-in-Chief, and of the chiefs of
the several staff corps and departments; the calls for troops, and the
correspondence between the National and the several State authorities.
The Fourth Series will exhibit the correspondence, orders, reports, and
returns of the Confederate authorities, similar to that indicated for the
rnion officials, as of the third series, but excluding the correspondence
between the Union and Confederate authorities given in that series.
ROBERT 1ST. SCOTT,
Major Third Art., and Bvt. Lieut. Col
WAR DEPARTMENT, August L>3, 1880.
Approved:
ALEX. RAMSEY,
Secretary of War.
T H K
WAR OF THE REBELLION:
A COMPILATION OF THE
!
OFFICIAL RKOCXRDS
OF THE
UNION AND CONFEDERATE ARMIES.
ADDITIONS AND CORRECTIONS
TO
SERIES I— VOLUME XIV.
(To Toe inserted in. the volume. For explanation see GJ-eiveral
Index volume, Serial !N"o. 13O, page
PUBLISHED UNDER THE DIRECTION OF
The Hon. ELIHU BOOT, Secretary of War,
BRIG. GEN. FRED C. AINSWORTH,
CHIEF OF THE RECORD AND PENSION OFFICE, WAR DEPARTMENT,
AND
MR. JOSEPH W. K1RKLEY.
ITIr. JOHN S. 1T1OODKV
WASHINGTON:
GOVERNMENT PRINTING OFFICE
1902.
ADDITIONS AND CORRECTIONS.
TEXT.
Page I.
Page 39.
Page 321.
Page 324.
Page 377-
Page 462.
Page 483-
Page 546-
Page 635.
Page 669.
Page 744.
Page 862.
Page 880.
Page 900.
Page 946.
Page 963.
, and before Brig. Gen. Rufus
Insert April 29, /S6*. after April 19*
Sax ton.
Beaver's report, address, for H\ II'. Brown read N. W. Brown.
Tenth line, top, for a Freeborn cut read or Freedom's Cut.
Erase foot-note and insert See Plate /£?, Map 3, of the Atlas.
Twenty-seventh line, Ijottom, for 5,000 read 50,000.
Eighth line, top, second column, for Battalions read Batteries.
Erase foot-note and insert Sec Scries /, I'ol. JJ, p. 236.
For/ A'. </'. Hunter read./. M. (•'. Hunter, and erase *; also erase foot
note.
Special Orders, No. 237, change Paragraph XII to XVII.
Jordan to Faiinin et al., address, for Cay, Allen, read Allen Cay ; first
line, insert * after nil into and add foot-note, * See Series /, \7ol. 52,
Part 2, p. 373.
Fifteenth and twenty-fourth lines, top, for slken's and Aken read
Akin's and Akin.
Twentieth line, lx>ttom, for Forty-seventh read Forty-sixth.
Trapier to Beauregard, last line, insert wreath alter green.
Beauregard to Seddon, second communication, first line, for Calinut read
Cadmus.
Seventeenth line, top, for S/iu/z's read Schitlz's.
Keitt's telegram should be addressed to General Ripley, text beginning
Arrived here, etc.
IX'IVKX.
Insert all words and figures in italics and strike out all in [brackets]. An asterisk (*) following a
correction indicates that "Additions and Corrections" to the text should be consulted.
[Allen, Mr. ( For correspondence, etc., see Geor
gia. Citizens of.)]
Anderson. KdwanlC.. jr., *>*,(> [Anderson, Major,
55^1-
Baker, T. llatusmi [Captain].
lira it regard. G. T.
Correspondence with
Iff L'lilf [IH- I.isle], Ch. G.
(Keitt. I«awrence M.. 963.] *
Hell. K. II., j<>t [Ik-ll, Scout, 3uiJ.
Black, John I..
Correspondence with
I«ucas,y.yuwu//*a« [Jonathan J.].
Charlfs O.. y!M: Boutelle, Charles A
Boykin. Ed. M. [Captain].
Boyhton [Boyleslon], S. Cordes.
Brown. Nathaniel \V.. 40 [Brown, W. W., 40].
Buckhalter.y. //. [Mr.].
Burnett. Jttlifn Jlf. [Julian].
Cadmus. British Steamer, 900 [Calmut, Steamer
900].*
Campbell. Charles H. [ ].
Cash, Elltrbet B. C. [Colonel].
Chftnut [Chestnut], James.
Clay. II. L. [C.].
Clifton, A.J. [Captain].
Crandall, William If. [Crandel, Captain].
I )e I ,a C roi x , Ju les [Mr.].
Hf r/s/c [Dt- I.isle], Ch. C,.
Krwin, John M. F.
I'lorida Tnxips.
Artillery— Battalions:
Milton (Batteries), A (Dunham), jjo [704].
Infantry— Companies:
Cobb Guards, S6<>.
r.ay, Allen [Mr.].
Oeorgia Troo^xs.
Cavalry— Regiments:
[2d State (inards, 930.]
Infantry— Companies:
[Cobb Guards, 860.]
Infantry— Regiments:
2<t State (Storey), yjo.
Gladden, George O. [Mr.].
Gout and [Gourand], George K.
Gray, Sylvester //. [F.].
Hallett, William A. [Captain].
Haydn [Hayden], Thomas Iv.
Henerey [Henery],\V. S.
Heyward, James 5. [B.].
Hutchings, William V. [H. W.].
Hutchinson, John /. [J.].
Jeffers, W. H. [(lieutenant)], 26 [Jeffers, W. H.
(Corporal), 26].
K'earny [Kearney], Edmund.
ADDITIONS AND CORRECTIONS.
Keitt, L,awrence M.
Correspondence with
[Beauregard, G. T ., 963.] *
Ripley, Roswell S., 963*
L,a Coste, Adolphus W.
I,atta,/. M. [Judge].
l,aw, Richard L. [Captain] .
I^nc&s. J.Jonathan [Jonathan J.].
McClenaghan, Cunningham [M c C 1 e iiahan.
JohnC.].
MacDonald [McDonald], Christopher R.
Memminger, Christopher [Charles] G.
Meredith, James S. [vSurgeon].
Middleton,/. Motte.
Milieu [Miller], M. B.
Morris, C. M. [W.] .
Niernsee,/0A« K. [Mr.].
Parker, Francis S. [[I,.]]-
Plumb, Daniel B. [Mr.].
Ripley, Roswell S.
Correspondence with
Keitt, I,awrence M., 963*
Skinner, Benjamin F. [H.].
Smith, !„. Jaquelin.
Mentioned, 604 [Smith, S. J., 604].
Smith, R. Press, jr., 273; Smith, R. Press, [273].
South Carolina Troops (C.).
Cavalry — Battalions:
[2d, 591, 624.]
8th, 597, 624.
Caval ry — Companies :
Boykirts (State), 287.
South Carolina Troops (C.)— Continued.
Infantry— Companies:
[Boy kin's (State), 287.]
Infantry— Regiments:
ist Reserves, 720.
loth Militia, 7^5.
loth Reserves, [785].
Hth Militia [Reserves].
i5th Militia [Reserves].
39th Militia [Reserves].
[Brown's Reserves, 720.]
Starkweather,/. B. [Mr.].
Stewart, James T. [F.J.
Stow, Captain.
Correspondence with M. B. Millen [Miller).
Van Brunt, George /.'.
Virginia, C. S. S., 205.
Virginia Troops.
Infantry — Regiments: both, 505.
Walker, David S. [Judge].
War Department, V. S.
Correspondence with
Gouraud [Gourand], George E.
Washington, George I,., 90? [Worthington,
George S., 903].
Wilkins, F. G. [Captain].
Wilkinson, Willis [W. H.].
Young, W. G. [Lieutenant].
CONTENTS.
CHAPTER XXVI.
Page.
Operations on the coasts of Sonth Carolina, Georgia, and Middle and East
Florida 1-1025
(V)
CONTENTS OF PRECEDING VOLUMES.
CHAPTER I.
Operations In Charleston Harbor, South
Carolina. December 20, 1860-April 14,
1861 1-317
CHAPTER H.
The secession of Georgia. January 3-26,
1861 318-325
CHAPTER IIL
The secession of Alabama and Mississippi.
January 4-20, 1861 326-330
CHAPTER TV.
Operations in Florida. January 6-Angust
81, 1861 331-473
VOLUME I.
Page.
CHAPTER V. Page.
The secession of North Carolina. Janu-
ary 8-May 20, 1861 474-488
CHAPTER VL
The secession of Louisiana. January 10-
February 19, 1861 488-601
CHAPTER VH.
Operations in Texas and New Mexico.
February 1-Jnne 11, 1881 502-838
CHAPTER Vm.
Operations in Arkansas, the Indian Terri
tory, and Missouri. February 7-May 8
1861 837-491
VOLUME II.
CHAPTER IX. Page.
Operations in Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia, and West Virginia. April 16-Joly 81, 1881. 1-1011
VOLUME III.
CHAPTER X. Paff*.
Operations in Missouri, Arkansas, Kansas, and Indian Territory. May 10-November 18, 1861. 1-748
VOLUME IV.
CHAPTER XI. Page.
Operations in Texas, New Mexico, and
Arizona. June 11, 1861-February 1, 1862. 1-174
CHAPTER XII.
Operations in Kentucky and Tennessee.
July 1-November 19, 1861 175-565
CHAPTER XHL Page.
Operations in North Carolina and South
eastern Virginia. August 1, 1861-Janu-
ary 11, 1862 666-721
VOLUME V.
CHAPTER XIV.
Operations in Maryland, Northern Virginia, and West Virginia. August 1, 1861-March 17, 1862. 1-1101
VOLUME VI.
CHAPTER XV. Page.
Operations on the coasts of South Carolina,
Georgia, and Middle and East Florida.
August 21, 1861-April 11, 1862 1-435
CHAPTER XVI. P»f*-
Operations in West Florida, Southern Al
abama, Southern Mississippi, and Lou
isiana. September 1,1861-May 12, 1862. 436-894
VOLUME VII.
CHAPTER XVII.
Operations in Kentucky, Tennessee, N. Alabama, and S. W. Virginia. Nov. 19, 1861-Mar. 4, 18(
vm CONTENTS OF PRECEDING VOLUMES.
VOLUME VIII.
CHAPTER XVHL Pag6'
Option, in MUwuri, Arkcnsa* Kansas and Indian Territory. Nov. 19, 1881-April 10, 1862. 1-S34
VOLUME IX.
CHAPTER XIX. Page.
Operations In Southeastern Virginia. Jan
uary 11-Mareh 17, 1882 1-71
CHAPTER XXL Page.
Operations in Texas, New Mexico, and
Arizona. February 1-September
1662 481-736
CHAPTER XX.
Operation* in North Carolina. January
U-Angust20, 18«2 - 72-480
VOLUME X-IN TWO PARTS.
CHAPTER XXIL
Operation* in Kentucky, Tennessee, North Mississippi, North Alabama, and Southwest Virginia.
March 4-June 10, 1862.
Page.
Part I-B*port« !-927
Part II— Correspondence, etc • 1-642
VOLUME XI— IN THREE PARTS.
CHAPTER xnn.
The Peninsular Campaign, Virginia. March 17-September 2, 1862.
Paf«.
Part I-Reporta, March 17-June24 1-1078
Par! II— Report*, June 25-September 2 1-994
Part III— Correspondency etc 1-691
VOLUME XII-IN THREE PARTS.
CHAPTER XXIV.
Operations in Northern Virginia, "West Virginia, and Maryland.
Page.
Part I— Report*, March 17-June 25 1-818
Part II— Reports, June 26-September 2 1_820
Part Hi—Correspondence, etc 1-966
VOLUME XIII.
CHAPTER XXV.
Page.
Operations to Missouri, Arkansas, Kansas, the Indian Territory, and the Department of the
Northwest. April 10-November 20, 1662
CHAPTER XXVI.
OPERATIONS ON THE COASTS OF SOUTH CAROLINA
GEORGIA, AND MIDDLE AND EAST FLORIDA.
April 12, 1862-June 11, 1863.
on?1 THE
April 13, 1862. — Maj. Gen. David Hunter, U. S. Army, orders emancipation of slaves
at Fort Pulaski and on Cockspur Island, Ga.
14, 1862. — Eeconnaissance on Seabrook Island, S. C.
16, 1862.— Skirmish on Whitemarsh Island, Ga,
18, 1862.— Brig. Gen. Joseph Fiuegan, C. S. Army, assumes command of the
Department of Middle and East Florida.
19, 1862.— Skirmish on Edisto Island, S. C.
Brig. Gen. Eufns Saxtou, U. S. Army, assigned to special duty in
the Department of the South, t
29,1862. — Engagements at Pineberry Battery, Willstown, and White Point,
S. C.
May 9, 1862. — Maj. Gen. David Hunter, U. S. Army, orders the emancipation of
slaves in Florida, Georgia, and South Carolina, and authorizes
the arming of all able-bodied negroes in those States.
13, 1862.— Abduction of the steamer Planter from Charleston, S. C.
20, 1862.— Bombardment of Cole's Island, S. C.
Affair on Crooked River, Fla.
21, 1862.— Affair near Battery Island, S. C.
22, 1862.— Expedition to John's Island, S. C.
25, 1862.— Affair between James and Dixon's Islands, S. C.
29, 1862.— Skirmish at Pocotaligo, S. C.
June 3, 1862.— Skirmish on James Island, S. C.
6, 1862.— Affair at Port Royal Ferry, S. C.
7, 1862.— Skirmish on John's Island, S. C.
8, 1862.— Skirmish on James Island, S. C.
8- 9, 1862.— Affairs on John's Island, S. C.
10, 1862.— Skirmish on James Island, S. C.
12. 1862.— Reconnaissance on Hutchiuson's Island, S. C.
13^ 1862.— Affair at White House, near Hilton Head, S. C.
~~*"Of some of the minor conflicts noted in this " Summary" no circumstantial reports
are 011 file.
tFor instructions to Saxton in reference to abandoned plantations, etc.,
ing correspondence, see Series III, Vol. II.
1 R R — VOL XIV
2 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND KAST FLA. 10
Jon6 15, 1862,-Naval descent upon Saint Mark's, Fla.
1,, ^.-Engagement at Secessionville, James Island, S. C.
•jl 1-02.— Engagement at Simmons' Bluff, S. C.
2&-July 7, 18(32.— Evacuation of . James Island. S.C.
30-July 1, 186*2.— Bombardment of Tampa, Fla.
July t. 1 -»^.— Affair at Port Royal Ferry, S. C.
9, 1862.— Expedition to Fen wick's Island, S. C.
9-10 1862.— Demonstrations aguin»t Pocotaligo, S. C.
Aug. 8, 1862,-West Florida detached from the Department of the feouth and
annexed to the Department of the Gulf.
10, 1862.— Capture of the Confederate steamer General Lee in the Savannah
River, Ga.
1::. 1862.— Engagement on Black River, S. C.
21. 1862.— Affair on Pinckney Island, S. C.
Sept. 1, 1862.— Maj. Gen. Ormshy M. Mitchel, U. S. Army, assigned to command
of the Department of the South.
3, 1862.— The Tenth Army Corps constituted under command of Maj. Gen.
Onnsby M. Mitchel, U. S. Army.
5, 1862.— Brig. Gen. John M. Braunan, U. S. Army, temporarily in command
of the Department of the Soiith.
10, 1862.— Skirmish on the Kilkenny River, S. C.
11. 1862.— Engagement at Saint John's Bluff, Fla.
17. 1862.— Maj. Gen. Ormsby M. Mitchel, U. S. Army, assumes command of
the Department of the South.
Engagement at Saint John's Bluff, Fla.
24, 1CMB. General G. T. Beauregard, C. S. Army, supersedes Maj. Gen. John
C. Pemberton in command of the Department of South Carolina
and Georgia.
Affair on Skull Creek, S. C.
30-Oct. 3, 1H62. — Reconnaissances on May and Savannah Rivers, Ga.
30-Oct. 13, 1862.— Expedition from Hilton Head, S. C., to Saint John's
Bluff, Fla.
Oct. 6, 1862. — Brig. Gen. Joseph Finegan, C. S. Army, assigned to the command
of East Florida, and Brig. Gen. John H. Forney, C. S. Army,
assigned to the command of West Florida.
7, 1862. — Middle and East Florida embraced in General Beauregard's com
mand.
18, 1862.— Affair at Kirk's Bluff, S. C.
22-23, 1862.— Skirmish at Coosawhatchie, S. C., and engagements at the Cas-
ton and Frampton Plantations, near Pocotaligo, S. C.
24, 1862.— Affair on Saint Helena Island, S. C.
27, 1862.— Brig. Gen. John M. Brannan, U. S. Army, assumes temporary com
mand of the Department of the South, vice Mitchel, deceased.
Nov. 3-10, 1862.— Expedition along the coasts of Georgia aud East Florida.
,— General Beauregard's command extended to the Choctawhatchee.
-Skirmish at Spaulding's, on Sapello River, Ga.
13-18, 1862.— Expedition from Beaufort to Doboy River, Ga.
1- H62.— Skirmish on Doboy River, Ga.
Jan. 20, 1863.-Maj. Gen. David Hunter, U. S. Army, resumes command of the
Deportment of the South.
23-Feb. 1, 1863,-Expedition from Beaufort, S. C., up the Saint Mary's River,
in Georgia and Florida.
26, 1863.— Skirmish at Township, Fla.
27, 1663.— Naval attack on Fort McAllister, Genesis Point, Ga.
29, 1863. -Expedition to Daufuskie Island, S. C.
CHAP. XXVI.] SEABROOK ISLAND, S. C. 3
Jan. 30, 1863.— Capture of U. S. steamer Isaac Smith in Stono River, 8. C.
31, 1863.— Attack on blockading squadron off Charleston, S. C. '
Affair on Bull Island, S. C.
Feb. 1, 1863.— Naval attack on Fort McAllister, Genesis Point, Ga.
18, 1863.— The South Carolina Militia called into service.
28, 1863. — Destruction of the Confederate steamer Nashville.
Naval attack on Fort McAllister, Ga.
Mar. 3, 1863.— Naval attack on Fort McAllister, Ga.
9, 1863.— Skirmish near Saint Augustine, Fla.
Affair at Fort McAllister, Ga.
10, 1863. — Union forces reoccupy Jacksonville, Fla.
20, 1863.— Affair in Saint Andrew's Bay, Fla.
22, 1863.— Destruction of the steamer Georgiana, off Charleston, 8. C.
23-31, 1863.— Operations near Jacksonville, Fla.
24, 1863.— Affair in Ocklockonnee Bay, Fla.
25, 1863.— Skirmish at Jacksonville, Fla.
27, 1863.— Skirmish at Palatka, Fla.
29, 1863.— Skirmish at Jacksonville, Fla.
31, 1863. — Jacksonville, Fla., evacuated by the Union forces.
April 7, 1863. — Engagement in Charleston Harbor, S. C.
9, 1863. — Destruction of steamer George Washington, near Beaufort, S. C.
10, 1863.— Skirmish on Folly Island, S. C.
12, 1863. — Destruction of the steamer Stonewall Jackson.
27, 1863.— Affair at Murray's Inlet, S. C.
May 4, 1863— Affair at Murray's Inlet, S. C.
18-21, 1863. — Torpedo operations in Skull Creek and skirmish on Pope's Island.
31, 1863.— Affair on James Island, S. C.
June 2, 1863.— Union raid on the Combahee River, S. C.
3, 1863. — Brig. Gen. Quincy A. Gillmore, U. S. Army, assigned temporarily
to command of the Department of the South.
4, 1863. — Expedition from Fort Pulaski,
8, 1863. — Affair near Brunswick, Ga.
11, 1863.— Attack on Darien, Ga.
11-13, 1863.— Operations on Little Folly Island, S. C.
APRIL 14, 1862. — Reconnaissance on Seabrook Island, S. C.
Report of Col Enoch Q. Fellows, Third New Hampshire Infantry.
HEADQUARTERS UNITED STATES FORCES,
Misto Island, S. C., April 15, 1862.
LIEUTENANT: I have the honor to report the following for the in
formation of the commanding general :
A reconnaissance on Seabrook Island was made yesterday under
cover of the gunboat Pocahontas. The force consisted ol apart
of the Third New Hampshire Volunteers and U. S. Marines from i th
Pocahontas, covering ground which had not been visited by us
and advancing within a mile of the village of Eockville. It is eviden
there has formerly been a large picket stationed on the island, bu
been withdrawn, there being no evidence of any ot «e. *'£ ™ "
picket can be seen at different points between Rockville «£ ^""
Flats. A reconnaissance will soon be made by the Pocahontas
4 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVI.
Church Flute, to ascertain, if possible, the force there. From the intel-
li-« -nee I get from contrabands this is among the best approaches to
Charleston. The distance to Church Flats is 5 miles; from tlioro to
Charlrston 15 miles. It is reported a battery of four guns exists at
( 'lunch Flats. The Charleston and Savannah Railroad is but 2 miles
from Church Flats. No intelligence has been received of late from the
main laud, but I shall use every endeavor to obtain all the intelligence
I can.
It was reported yesterday morning that the enemy were erecting
earthworks at Watt's Cut, on Jehossee Island. I immediately ordered
tin point to be shelled, and sent a detachment from the Third New
Hampshire Volunteers, under cover of artillery, on the island. The
eart h works proved to be simply a shelter for the picket stationed there.
I propose to make a reconnaissance in force on the island in a few
da \ B, and am in hopes to capture a few of the enemy on picket opposite
Little Edisto Island.
I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
E. Q, FELLOWS,
Colonel Third New Hampshire Volunteers, Comdg. Post.
Lieut. A. B. ELY,
Acting Assistant Adjutant-General.
APRIL 16, 1862.— Skirmish on Whitemarsh Island, Ga.
No. l.-Maj. Gen. David Hunter, U. S. Army, commanding Department of the South
Gen. Henry W. Beuham, U. S. Army, commanding Northern District,
Department of the South.
-Brig. Gen. Quincy A. Gillmore, U. S. Army
Lieut James H. Wilson, U. S. Topographical Engineers, Chief Topo
graphical Engineer Department of the South.
. 5.-Col. William M. Fenton, Eighth Michigan Infantry
Jol. Marcellus Douglass, Thirteenth Georgia Infantry.
No. 1.
Report ofMaj. Gen. David Hunter U 8. Army, commanding Department
of the South.
HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE SOUTH
Port Royal' S' C"> APril 17> 1862.
i ' ' "> Pr > 162.
^
. .J. II. Wilson To T$ G!Ilmore? covering a report from
' Enmeers of
-'-. .. . son To ? m
Wilmington Wan^'miXfSttJ Engmeers> of a reconnaissance of
-
D. HUNTER,
General LORENZO THOMAS Major- General, Commanding.
Adjutant-Oeneral U. 8. Army, Washington.
CHAP. XXVI.] SKIRMISH ON WHITEMARSII ISLAND, GA.
Report of Brig. Gen. Henry W. Benham, U. 8. Army, commanding North-
ern District, Department of the South.
HDQRS. NORTHERN DISTRICT, DEPT. OF THE SOUTH
Hilton Head, 8. C\, April 17, 1862.
MAJOR: I have the honor to inclose a copy of report from Aotin"
Brig. Gen. Q. A. Gillmore, commanding at Tybee Island, with a copf
of report ot reconnaissance by Lieut. J. H. Wilson ou Wilmington
Island, transmitted therewith, for the consideration of the major-fifeii
era! commanding the department, said reconnaissance having been
ordered, as I understand, by General Gillmore since the capture of Fort
JL lTJ.cLSi£l*
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
H. W. BENHAM,
Brigadier- General, Commanding.
Maj. CHARLES G. HALPINE,
Assistant Adjutant- General, Department of the South.
NTo. 3.
Report of Brig. Gen. Quiney A. Gillmore, U. S. Army.
HEADQUARTERS UNITED STATES FORCES,
Tybee and Cockspur Islands, Ga., April 17, 1862.
SIR : I have the honor to report, for the information of the general
commanding the district, that I ordered a reconnaissance of Wilming
ton Island yesterday by Lieut. J. H. Wilson, escorted by seven com
panies of the Eighth Michigan (about 400 men) and a field piece. The
object was to ascertain the position of affairs ou that island, on which
repeated examinations on a small scale had been made, to complete the
examination commenced by Colonel Eosa some days since, determine
the character of the firm land and streams, and, above all, to see if any
preparations by the enemy for boat expeditions against the hulk in
Lazaretto Creek or on the left of my position were being made. The
reconnaissance, so far as these points required it, was entirely successful,
but I regret to be under the necessity of stating that the enemy was
met there in force (800). A skirmish ensued. The enemy was driven
off, and 10 of our men killed (including one lieutenant) and 3o wounded.
Everything was brought off.
I inclose Lieutenant Wilson's report of the skirmish. His report ot
the reconnaissance, with a complete map of the island and its \vut
courses, will be sent this p. in., or he will bring it up in person,
the wounded up this morning on the Honduras.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
Q. A. GILLM(Jlvhj,
Brigadier- General, Com manding.
Lieut. A. B. ELY,
Actg. Asst. Adjt. Gen., Northern Dist., Dept. of the South.
6 COASTS OF S. Q, GA, AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [OH,,
tfo. 4.
JT IF;/ «nii 77 8 Tononraphical Engineers.
Rtporu tfzfjyj-jggz icfart^t y& ^/,
ON BOARD THE STEAMER HONDURAS,
" Off Wilmington Island, Ga., April 17, 18C2.
SW 1 Lav, the honor to submit the following for the information of
''T^rr^
VTVvH Ulerv I cmburk«l oil the steamer Honduras at Goat's Point
ssS^ssss^sssa^sSKsz
' :; . "i a" Wilmington Narrows to Screven's plantation two
s G I 15 about 115 men, under the command of Captain
P»r^SeL^e4,with orders to march at once to the southwestern
of he Island; skirting Turner's Creek on the right, so as to cover
£e .party which was to follow that stream to Wilmington River.
enSng to tne junction of Oatland and Turner's Creeks, the balance
he command, in all about 300 men, were landed at Gibson's planta-
n The first company ashore was directed to move at once to the south-
west ni.l of Whiteniarsh Island, skirting Turner's Creek, and with in
ductions to leave a small picket at the intersection of the roads from
(libsoifsand Oatland to Turner's till another company should arrive
at that point.
\ third company was to be thrown out on the road to the terry at
( acton's Bluff', to protect the boat party at Oatland Creek. The two
remaining companies were to be held in reserve at Gibson's plantation.
Lieutenant Colwell and 10 men of the Third Rhode Island Volun-
.11 h one light 6 pounder, were left in charge of the steamer.
The gun could not be landed, on account of the inability of the boat
to lie alongside the landing.
Having proceeded thiough Turner's to Wilmington River I returned
b\ the >ame route and landed at Gibson's. Directly after arriving
there I was informed that our patrols had discovered the enemy in
force at or near Meet wood's, and had seen traces of them all the way
t«» Turner's, Colonel Fenton had already given orders for the advance
companies to fall back to < iibson's, and made his dispositions for repell
ing an attack and covering our embarkation. After an examination
the ground, at my suggestion one company was thrown farther for
ward, to take >helter behind the hedge and fence surrounding one of
the houvo. Tin- colonel had already designated this position, and sta
tioned another in the woods lining the marsh on the left, and the bal
ance behind the houses and trees nearer the landing.
Atter the>r depositions were completed, and between 4 and 5 p. m.,
the rebel>. Mib.se.jM.-nt ly ascertained to be the Thirteenth Georgia Vol
unteers, about ^iiu Mrong. armed with Enfield rifles, preceded by a
line "f skirmishers, made an attack upon our position. After
nur advance line had delivered its tire from the hedge the bugles
.sounded - the charge " for the main body. This was confounded with
"tl" 'I'1"1 advance line abandoned its cover and fell back
through an open -pace toward the reserve. While in this somewhat
Confused condition the enemy advanced rapidly, pouring in upon us a
Mead\ and destructive lire. Our men replied with spirit from such
CHAI-. XXVI.] SKIRMISH ON WHITEMARSH ISLAND, GA. 7
cover as could be obtained. Order was soon re-established and the
rebels held in check for an hour or more. After the ineffectual effort s
of Colonel Fenton and myself to form enough men to charge tlu-ii
line and drive them from the hedge a portion of one company was
carried to the right, and under cover of the timber skirting the marsh
on that side the left flank of the enemy was met and frustrated in an
attempt to move in that direction.
An advance on the left and along the whole line dislodged the enemy
and put him in full flight. He fell back rapidly, leaving several deal I
and wounded on the field, and was closely pressed for a half or three-
quarters of a mile. As it was now almost night it was not deemed
advisable to continue the pursuit farther. Our skirmishers were grad
ually drawn in; strong advance guards were posted well out on both
roads, and two companies again posted on the line of the hedge and
the fence to the right. After having made these admirable dispositions
of his force to secure our position Colonel Feu ton then directed the re
moval of our killed and wounded to the steamer, and after holding the
ground for three hours the entire force was quietly embarked without
further accident, though it must be confessed had the enemy renewed
his attack while we were engaged in embarking we should have suffered
great loss.
Our five small boats could not remove more than 50 men every thirty
minutes, and the steamer lay in such a position that the 6-pouuder
could not be brought to bear without jeopardizing the lives of our own
people.
Our loss is 10 killed and 35 wounded. Among the former is Lieu
tenant and Adjutant Pratt, who fell while gallantly cheering on the
men. Lieutenant Badger, in command of the advance guard, was dan
gerously if not mortally wounded and fell into the hands of the enemy,
but in the hurry of their retreat succeeded in effecting his escape.
The loss of the enemy cannot be ascertained. Two of their dead
were left in our hands. 'One, mortally wounded, died before we disem
barked ; the balance were carried off.
I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
First Lieut., Top. Eng., and Chief Top. Eng. Dept. South.
Lieut. W. L. M. BURGER,
A. A. A. G., Hdqrs. U. S. Forces, Tybee Island, Ga.
TYBEE ISLAND, GA., April 17,
SIR: In accordance with Special Orders, No. 11, I liw mad.- a re
connaissance of Wilmington Island, and have the 1
"Vrom Goat's Point through Lazaretto Creek, Tybee R^y"1'^!"';
ner's Creek to Screven's plantation the navigation is safe ; dt-Ofl
for vessels of 10 feet draught. The channel through Wilmington , v
rows to Saint Augustine Creek is obstructed at its junction wit . l > in
Eiver by a well-constructed barrier of piles and live-oak Jog*
this fact and its relation to the other streams I am oi the <
it is navigable for gunboats. Turner's Creek is also ,,ax «
tide, but as its main entrance into Wilmington River ,s l> >- ;
teries occupied by the enemy there is no advantage to b» .
using it. Oatland Creek was not ascended but Iroin u •;
entrance and the evidence of the negroes it is probaWj not
8 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVI.
ble. Moreover, the existence of the batteries at Carston's Bluff, just
opposite its outlet, would render it unsafe. The location of the roads,
plantations, and other features of the islands, as laid down by Colonel
Kosa, IKS far as examined, were found to be sufficiently accurate for all
military purposes. Xo boats of any description were found, and no in
dications of any contemplated attack upon our guard boat in Lazaretto
Creek could be perceived. The inclosed sketch will give all additional
information necessary.*
I am. sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
J. H. WILSON,
First Lieut., Top. Eng., Chief Top. Eng. Dept. of the South.
Lieut. W. L. M. BURGER,
A. A. A. #., Hdqrs. U. S. Forces, Tybee and PulasM, Ga.
No. 5.
Report of Col. William M. Fcnton, Eighth Michigan Infantry.
HEADQUARTERS MICHIGAN VOLUNTEERS,
On Board Steamer Honduras,
Off Wilmington Island, Ga., April 16, 1862 — 11 p. m.
SIR : I have the honor to report, for the information of the general
commanding, that, in compliance with Special Orders, No. 41, I em
barked with seven companies of the Eighth Michigan Kegiment as an
«cort to Lieut. J. H. Wilson, Topographical Engineers, on a recon
naissance of Wilmington Island. Two companies, under command of
Captain Pratt, were landed at Screven's plantation, with orders from
Lieutenant \\ ilson to skirt Turner's Creek ; the other five companies
were landed at Gibson's plantation. Two of these companies were
ordered to skirt Turner's Creek ; a third was to take the road to the
b toward ferry at Carston's Bluff to protect boat party up Oatland
Creek, and the remainder to secure the landing. After one company
L! r hje,wii" lan(kld.Ll?tenailt Wilson l>™eedert in a boat up Tur-
Owmjr to the small number of boats and the distance
Earner wh.ch was grounded) some delay occurred in the dis-
Idimjted Lieutenant-Colonel Graves to follow with the
1 L' ' T s °reek' but bein- misdirected he took
approach could hi- nl> , ™] T Position from which the enemy's
Georgia, about MO^Sf M°S£ Tl^^ ^ Thirteei^
proached (about 4 o'cl "nul xuth Lnfaeld rifles. As they ap-
* Not fonna.
XXVI.] SKIRMISH ON WHITEMARSH ISLAND, GA. 9
panics in the rear of first line. The first line, mistaking the signal, fell
back to the next cover. A constant and effective fire was kept up on
both sides from cover of trees and bushes for an hour or more. Lieu
tenant Wilson, who had returned with boat party, here proved of great
service to me. He took a party at my request to the left, and I ordered
a company to the right to flank the enemy. Both operations were suc
cessful, and in a few moments the enemy retreated in confusion, leav
ing several dead on the field, followed by our men with loud cheers.
It being now about sunset I recalled our troops, and giving to Lieu
tenant Wilson the command of pickets stationed to guard against
surprise, formed the companies in line as originally posted, sent the
dead and wounded in boats to the ships, and gradually and very quietly
under cover of night withdrawing the men sent them on board as fast
as our limited transportation would allow. At the last trip of the
boats I embarked, accompanied by Lieutenant Wilson, Lieutenant-
Colonel Graves, and the remainder of my command, at about 10 o'clock
p. m., and immediately brought on board the two companies left at
Screven's plantation. After the enemy retreated we were unmolested.
It is due to the officers and men of the command to say that generally
they behaved with cool and intrepid courage. Adjutant Pratt fell
dead near my side, gallantly fighting musket in hand and cheering on
the men. Our loss, I regret to say, was comparatively heavy — 10
killed and 35 wounded out of a command of 300 men. Among the
wounded is Acting Lieutenant Badger, of Company C, who was in
charge of the advanced picket, and exhibited undaunted courage.
He with one of his men was made prisoner. Both escaped, and were
brought in when the enemy retreated.
The captain of the Honduras is deserving of great credit for his
kind attention to the wounded. Indeed he afforded us every facility
for the comfort of officers and men in his power. I respectfully refer
to Lieutenant Wilson's report, which I have read, and contains some
facts not embraced in this report, among others in relation to the men
detailed in charge of the field piece on board ship, who were vigilant
and attentive.
Herewith is transmitted a list of casualties.*
I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
WM. M. FEisTO^i,
Colonel, Commanding.
Lieut. W. L. M. BURGER,
Acting Assistant Adjutant- General, Tyoee Island.
Ko. 6.
Report of Col. Marcellus Douglass, Thirteenth Georgia Infantry.
HEADQUARTERS CARSTON'S BLUFF,
April 21, 1862.
CAPTAIN : 1 take this the first opportunity to make my report of th«
engagement between a portio,, of my command and a re$ me nt of 1
enemy on Whitemarsh Island on the evening of the ^tb instant:
The island lies east of this place, and between w he i
Oatland. I have for some time kept pickets_andj9ma
* Nominal list omitted.
10 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CIIAP. XXVI.
ties on Wliirrmarsh, knowing that the enemy occasionally visited it.
On that day I had sent, under command of Lieut. Thomas G. Medders,
<»! ( 'ompany H, a party of about 45 men for scouting and picket duty!
In the evening 1 took with me Capt. J. T. Crawford, of Company G '
Lieut. R. T. Bowie, of same company, and 37 of their men, with axes'
across to Oatland to have the trees on the island cut down. I required
t!i«- men to carry with them their guns and cartridge boxes.
Soon after getting there and about 3 p. m. oue'of my pickets came
in from Whitemarsh arid told me that the enemy were landing at Mr
Gibson's place, on the point of Whitemarsh next to Wilmington River'
and that a steamer with about a regiment of men on board was lvin«J
m the river some 400 or 500 yards from the landing, and that Lieu"
tenant Medders, with his men, had fallen back across the island to a
cross-road some 2 miles from where the enemy were seen. I immedi
started Captain Crawford, with his company of 37 men, to the
place where Lieutenant Medders had halted. I gave to Captain Craw
lord instructions to remain at that point until I could return to camp
and get an additional force, and also directed him to send out piS
ll:r^^-™^sint™^<^™><>™ leading f
to me b nSeat o a «gi»ent, as
I10t takh'S «>e three
-u.\ ovei uatland to Whitemarsh u-*« thof H 5 i
of crossing the stream between the fcwoISS the only means
would carry about 10 or 15 men at on™ aid tonT "'i*^ b°at that
'•"M-mned in this manner I tliPwfnr too much time would be
panics A and C around to a landing nnWi? °U , steamer with Com-
' '"' mouth of Whitemarsh Crectlo^ , B?^ del^ed <*
and by the time I could ffet mv r m i the boat ran aground,
In the mean time the pickete r SM i nnlaild ?fc was llear 5'30 o^ock!
-' party of the enemy about 50 a Dy J^Ptain Crawford discovered
across the island. The pickets fired on th ^ advanced 1J miles
np«i ^Pto^OrawfordaSdMecSl^8^ t0vbe ?Jout5«or 75, w°here-
two companies the scoiitiiVimrA ^f^/118^1^1^ between their
'"iii«Ml to endeavor to surround tL ^tenant Medders, deter-
^ s^aSSwE??^ s ™-#s
,^ri^^^
of woods to the Gibson house,
i hedge of cedar, and brisk fir-
CHAP. XXVI.] SKIRMISH ON WHITEMAHSH ISLAND, GA. H
This was the first firing I heard, the other being scattering and th«
noise of the steamer preventing those of us 011 board from hearing any
thing else. As soon, however, as we had landed and the reports of the
guns were heard I started my men at a double-quick, having then 2 or 2A
miles to go. This distance we made as quickly as possible. On the
way I met several of the wounded men and those who were without
cartridges coming back. At the distance of about half a mile or less
from the Gibson house I met Captain Crawford with his men retreating
across a small field, and learned from him that he and Captain McCallay
who with their forces had divided near the cedar hedge, had been over
powered after having sustained heavy loss and exhausted their ammu
nition, and were compelled to retreat, and that the enemy— a full regi
ment—were in hot pursuit. Seeing that Captain Crawford and all his
men were completely worn out I ordered them to the rear, and formed
my men in single rank along and just in the edge of a skirt of woods,
ordering them to lie down and wait for the command to fire. Soon the
enemy came, shouting as they came, apparently confident of overtaking
and capturing the small party who had so long held them in check.
The imprudence and impatience of one man prevented me from getting
the enemy completely by surprise, and I believe in our power. He,
contrary to orders, fired too soon, and knowing that a scattering fire
would begin, I gave the command to fire, and one volley checked their
progress and turned them back. They discharged their 'guns at us, but
without effect. I kept my men in their position, expecting another ad
vance, but no Yankee showed himself again. Soon Captain McCallay,
about whom I felt great uneasiness, came in from a direction to the
right of us, some of his men wounded and the rest without cartridges
and all completely exhausted.
Night had then come on us, and having only about 60 men with car
tridges and physically able to fight, I deemed it imprudent to pursue
the enemy to their boats, knowing their overwhelming force of 800 men
and also fearing an ambuscade, as a skirt of woods through which they
retreated was between us, and we could not then ascertain whether they
were fleeing or awaiting our advance.
On the next day I found that they had remained on the island only
long enough to gather up their dead and wounded, as they had left
knapsacks, cartridge boxes, canteens, haversacks, overcoats, blankets,
&c., and a number of guns, all of which we gathered up. I also saw
the doors that they had taken from the houses there and on which
they had borne off their killed and wounded. The doors were very
bloody.
During the first part of the engagement, and while Captains
ford and McCallay were driving the enemy before them, a Federal heir
tenant was mortally wounded, and from him the fact was ascertained
that their force numbered 800 or 8<>0; it was the Eighth Michigan.
Another prisoner, who was taken with the lieutenant, also stated tl
the men we were fighting were not foreigners. Several caps were foam
with the letters of the companies to which the wearers belonged o
them, showing that there were different companies. I also learn
the officers and men that while the fighting was going on in the
front of and from here, just beyond the Gibson house, the enemy form
in line of battle and their entire force took part in the fight, borne time
during the engagement the enemy landed some artillery (the tracks ,
the wheels were found by us the next day), but it was not brought
action at all, and I judge was carried back on the boat as qui
had been landed.
12 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVI.
The officers of my command engaged were : Capt. J. T. Crawford and
Lieut. K, T. Bowie,^ of Company G ; Capt. James McCallay and Lieuts.
A. AV. Pearce and J. T. Horsley, of Company B ; Capt. John L. Moore
and Lieuts. T. M. Breed and J/B. Breed, of Company C, and Lieuts. E.
L. Connally and J. C. Steger, of Company A. Lieut. Thomas G. Med-
ders, of Company H, was lieutenant of the scouting party sent out in
the morning.
The whole force engaged at any one time was not over 90, some hav
ing been detailed as pickets to prevent surprise from the rear and to
guard the steamer.
Below is a list of the casualties:*
Killed.
Wounded.
Officers
2
1
EulirtUnl men
4
12
Total
4
15
The loss of the enemy could not be ascertained, except approximately,
by going over the ground and finding the bloody places which marked
where they fell. There were quite a number of these, some of them
indicating that those shot had bled very freely. Bloody garments were
found, some caps that had been shot through, and the bloody doors upon
which they had borne off their men; guns and various other things with
blood on them indicate that the enemy suffered severely.
I had forgotten also to mention that the lantern they had used in.
searching for their dead and wounded was found the next day. In
their haversacks were found plates, knives, and forks, butter-crackers,
meat, &c., as if they had come prepared to remain on the island a day
or two. They had also some ground coffee that they drooped in their
hurry. The guns used by them were muskets, some of them large-bore
Springfield muskets rifled.
The loss on our side, particularly in the ranks of Captain Crawford's
:ompany (G), and the length of time they were fighting, show with
bravery they maintained their ground against overwhelming num
bers — eight or ten to one.
I cannot omit to state my high appreciation of the skill and courage
is Crawford and McCallay and the valor of officers and men
;i them Captain Crawford had command of the party until I
m (Ml and in h,s judgment and valor I have entire confidence. Cap-
KISSL^ bim in every movement' and a braver>
Individual instances of heroism and narrow escapes were reported to
roe, among them that of Garland Upshaw, of Companv B who^n assist
his S5"ft£ WOUn(U'(1 C°mrad" had ^rat ho'les made Trough
i* quite a youth, and yet is considered one of the
sr
Nominal list omitted.
CHAP. XXVI.] ABDUCT] ON OF STttAMEK PLANTER. 13
armed Yankees for nearly an hour, and retreated only because thev had
no more ammunition with which to light.
I am, captain, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
M. DOUGLASS,
Colonel, Commanding Post.
Capt. MALLORY P. KING, A. A. G., Second Brigade.
APRIL 29, 1862.— Engagements at Pineberry Battery, Willstown and
White Point, S. C.
Report of Brig. Gen. Nathan G. Evans, C. S. Army, commanding Third
Military District of South Carolina.
HEADQUARTERS THIRD MILITARY DISTRICT,
Adams Run, S. C , April 30, 1862.
CAPTAIN : I have the honor to report, for the -information of the
major-general, that the enemy came up the Dawho and attacked the
battery at Pineberry, and after an engagement of four hours suc
ceeded in landing and destroying the battery. I immediately repaired
to the spot and made preparations to meet him. After goiiig up the
Pon Pon, near Willstown, I met him with two pieces of field artillery,
when he commenced to retire. Watching his movements, I again in
tercepted him near White Point with four pieces of artillery and two
companies of infantry and engaged him at 50 yards. The contest lasted
an hour very hot, and no doubt many of the enemy were killed and
wounded. He retired in a crippled condition. I am expecting a re
newed attack to-day.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
K G. EVANS,
Brigadier- General, Commanding.
Oapt. J. E. WADDY, A. A. G., Charleston, S. (7.
MAY 13, 1862.— Abduction of the Steamer Planter from Charleston, S. C»
No. 1.— Maj. Gen. John C. Pemberton, C. S. Army, commanding Department of South
Carolina and Georgia.
No. 2.— Brig. Gen. Roswell S. Ripley, C. S. Army, commanding Second Military D
trict of South Carolina.
No. 3.— Lieut. F. G. Ravenel, C. S. Army, Aide-de-Camp.
No. 4.— Maj. Alfred Rhett, First South Carolina Artillery.
Report of Maj. Gen. John C. Pemberton, C. S. Army, commanding Depart
ment of South Carolina and Georgia.
HDQRS. DEPT. OF SOUTH CAROLINA AND GEORGIA,
Savannah, Ga., May 13, 1802.
I have just learned by telegmphj^^
* By Robert Smalls. See Annu^f Report of the Secretary of the Navy, December 1,
1862.
14 COASTS OK S. C., OA., AX,- MID. AND EAST FLA. [«*».
«„,,* aboan., inU-acU for the harbor, was stolen in Charleston this
morning.
Very respectfully, &c., ^ c PEMBBETON,
Major-General, Commanding.
General R. E. LEE, Richmond, Va.
No. 2.
o/ General *»«*lt 8. Ripley, C. 8 Army, commanding Second
Military District of South Carolina.
HDQRS. 2D MILITARY DISTRICT OF SOUTH CAROLINA,
Charleston, S. C., May 14, 1862.
MAJOR: I have the honor to inclose herewith a copy of a report from
Lieutenant Bavenel, aide-de-camp, concerning the ^Pg O4h™
str-uner Planter from this post; also a report from Maj, Alfred Rhett,
cm aidant at Fort Smnter. The mischief has occurred from the
mMrii.rence of the captain and officers of the boat and their disobedience
,r7,rdiTs a copy of which is herewith inclosed, and which had been
repeatedly urged upon them. I shall prefer charges against them at
an early day and lay them before the general commanding the depart-
mellt E. S. RIPLEY,
Brigadier- General, Commanding.
Maj. J. R. WADDY,
Assistant Adjutant- General, Charleston, 8. C.
No. 3.
Report of Lieut. F. G. Ravenel, C. 8. Army, Aide-de-Camp.
HDQRS. 2D MILITARY DISTRICT OF SOUTH CAROLINA,
Charleston, 8. C., May 13, 1862.
GENERAL: I have to report that the steamer Planter was stolen
from Southern Wharf at between 3 and 3.30 o'clock this morning and
taken to the enemy's fleet, off' the bar, where she was visible till late in
the forenoon. By telegram from Stono this afternoon it is reported
that she has gone south. The Planter is a high-pressure light-draught
boat, drawing ordinarily not more than 3£ to 4 feet, and has been em
ployed in the Confederate service in the transportation of ordnance,
&c., to and from the various posts in the harbor and other localities in
the neighborhood. She was under the command of C. J. Kelyea as
master, Samuel II. Smith, a Charleston pilot, being mate, and Zericli
Pitcher engineer, with a colored crew, eight in number, and all slaves.
Neither the captain, mate, nor engineer were on board at the time of
iier departure, notwithstanding paragraph VIII, in Orders, No. 5, viz:
CHAP. XXVI.] ABDUCTION OF STEAMER PLANTER. 15
All light-draught steamers in the employ of the Government wilt bo in reiulinoKs
to move at once, their officers and crews when at the wharf remaining on board <1
and night.
Four of her colored crew and one of the colored crew of the steamer
Etowah are missing, and are supposed to be parties to the theft. The
Planter was to have taken to the Middle Ground Battery early this
morning a portion of the armament for that fortification,' which had
been put on board yesterday afternoon, viz, a banded rifle 42, one
8-inch columbiad, one 8-inch seacoast howitzer, and one 32-potinder.
She had also mounted for her own use one 32-pounder and a 24-pounder
howitzer, and for use in Fort Suinter a 10-inch columbiad carriage, all
of which have fallen into the hands of the enemy.
From an examination of the guard in the neighborhood of the wharf
whence the Planter was stolen it would appear that about 8 o'clock
last night two white men and a white woman went on board of her, and
as they were not seen to return it is supposed that they have also gone
in her. The sentinel on post about 50 yards from where the Planter
was moored noticed her movement from the wharf at between 3 and
3.30 o'clock, but did not think it necessary to stop her, presuming that
she was but pursuing her usual business. The Planter after leaving
the wharf proceeded along the bay as far perhaps as the Atlantic Wharf,
where, after a short stoppage and the blowing of her whistle, she was
turned and proceeded on her course to sea. She passed Fort Sumter
at 4.15 o'clock, and was reported by the sentinel on duty to the officer
of the day. She was supposed to be the guard-boat and allowed to
pass without interruption.
I have the honor to be, yours, most respectfully,
F. G. EAVENEL,
Aide-de-Camp.
Brig. Gen. E. S. EIPLEY.
Second Military District.
No. 4.
Report ofMaj. Alfred Rhett, First South Carolina Artillery.
HEADQUARTERS ARTILLERY EEGIMENT,
Fort Sumter, 8. 6\, May 13, 1862.
CAPTAIN: I have the honor to report that at 4.15 o'clock this morn
ing the sentinel on the parapet called for the corporal of the guard and
reported the guard-boat going out. It was so reported
the day, and as it is by no means unusual for the guard-l
at that hour, no further notice was taken of the occi
I have the honor to be, very respectfully, ^^^^BTT
Major.
Capt. LEO. D. WALKER,
Assistant Adjutant- General.
16 COASTS OF S C., GA, AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVI.
MAY 20, 1862.— Bombardment of Cole's Island, S. C.
No 1 — Brig. Gen. S. R. Gist, C. S. Army.
fo fc-UMft, Col. Ellison Capers, Twenty-fourth South Carolina Infantry.
No. 1.
Reports of Brig. Gen. 8. R. Gist, C. S. Army.
NEAR BATTERY ISLAND,
[May 20, 1862]— 1.15 p. m.
CAPTAIN- Tbe largest gunboat has taken position near GriinbaH's
Landing. One has anchored just opposite to Legare's; another is at
Batterv Island. Three only have passed the obstructions near Battery
I ^land* They are shelling in all directions at intervals ; have command
of the roads leading to Cole's and Battery Islands. One is just oppo
site to the point where the general and myself thought of placing the
ritiiMl guns, within 400 yards of it. I would like to have another com
pany of cavalry for a few days. One is not sufficient for the duties of
guards, &c., across this island and up the Stoiio. I would like to have
Hampton's if it can be spared. The boats at anchor and have not fired
for fifteen minutes.
S. B. GIST,
» Brigadier- General.
Captain WALKER,
Assistant Adjutant- General.
ON THE EOAD NEAR LEGARE'S,
May 20, 1862—2.15 p. in.
SIR: Two of the enemy's gunboats entered Stono about 12 m.; passed
along Goat and Cole's Islands shelling, and are now at anchor around
Kiawah Point, in full view of Battery Island, throwing occasional shells
in different directions. I have withdrawn the troops from Cole's and
from Battery Islands and fired the building at both these places. The
vessels are just below the obstructions in the river. No one hurt; all
property saved. I will keep close watch and report further.
By order of Brigadier-General Gist:
CARLOS TRACY,
Aide- de- Camp.
Capt. LEO D. WALKER,
Asttixtant Adjutant- General.
No. 2.
Reports of Lieut. Col. Ellison Capers, Twenty-fourth South Carolina
Infantry.
FORT PALMETTO, S. C., May 20, 1862—10.30 a. m.
CAPTAIN: The two gunboats have moved to a new position and
are now at anchor outside opposite to this fort and in full view. A
CHAP. XXVI.] AFFAIR ON CROOKED RIVER, FLA. 17
schooner has just come up from the south and is now at anchor along
side with sails up. A large steamer under sail and steam passed by
and spoke the gunboats. A small boat rows about among them and
the clothes are hanging on the line of the larger gunboat.
Very respectfully,
E. CAPERS,
Lieutenant- Colonel, Commanding.
Captain WALKER,
Acting Assistant Adjutant- General, Secessionville, 8. C.
P. S. — The schooner is threatening our channel.
FORT PALMETTO, S. C.,
May 20, 1862—12 m.
CAPTAIN: The schooner evidently brought buoys, for five barges,
after being engaged in sounding, went up to her, came off, and have
planted a buoy in the channel, or at its mouth, just opposite this fort.
The buoy formerly on the bar over Folly has disappeared. The largest
of the three gunboats is now about to join the two smaller from the
direction of Charleston Bar.
Lieutenant- Colonel, Commanding.
MAY 20, 1862.— Affair on Crooked River, Fla.
Report of Capt. Haley T. Blacker, Beauregard Rangers, C. S. Army.
HEADQUARTERS,
Camp Gladden, Wakulla County, Fla., May 21, 1)
GENERAL : I have the honor to report that on y
3.30 o'clock, I left this camp with a detachment ol
' , . . • ,1 <-* 4- "I ••- \ ivi I Tl O,
River, at which point
±^lfr thl^t. <^^fiSS&Z not one of
the enemy could have escaped. u,.u,,,,t servant
I have the honor to be, general, your O^J^^J&B,
Captain, Commanding Beauregard Bangers.
2 R R — VOL XIV
18 COASTS OP S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [Chip. trVt
MAY 21, 1862.— Affair near Battery Island, S. C.
Report of Col C. H. Stevens, Twenty-fourth South Carolina Infantry*
HDQRS. TWENTY-FOURTH EEGIMENT S. C. YOLS.,
Sece.ssionville, S. C., May 21, 1862;
CAPTAIN : In obedience to orders from brigade headquarters, under
date of 20th instant, I this morning detailed 00 men from Company E,
( upturn Jones, and posted them as pickets near Battery Island. The
most advanced post was located at the old magazine, at the northern-
most end of the Battery Island works, and consisted of 1 sergeant, 1
corporal, and 4 men. The second post was in a thicket some 250 yards
nearer the causeway leading from Battery to James Island, and the
main Mipportof 20 men was posted in the James Island woods near the
ro;id, with the relief of 30 men at a point in the rear not far from the
old Lr^ure settlement.
At nhoiit 11 a. m. the sergeant in charge of the advanced picket sent
buck a messenger to Captain Jones, in charge of his support, that a
small boat had left one of the steamers lying near the obstructions in
the Stono River and was approaching the shore. Before any support
could be sent forward one of the enemy's gunboats passed up the river
and took a position enfilading the bridge and causeway, where she
commenced throwing grape and shrapnel, completely .cutting off all
communication with the pickets and closing their line of retreat. It is
supposed that on finding themselves cut olf and forgetting the barge
which had been seen approaching they entered the magazine to pro
tect themselves from the tire of the vessel and were made prisoners by
the landing party. The second picket withdrew in time and escaped.
The fire of the enemy was very severe and penetrated the cover of the
detachment in every direction. The men were then very prudently
withdrawn until the firing ceased, when they resumed their first posi
tions, except the picket at the magazine, which was not re-established.
Toward evening I retired the whole picket farther in the direction of
Legare's, one vessel having gone down the river to Cole's Island and
the two others dropped down to the line of piles.
I beg to commend to your favorable consideration the men who were
ruptured, and should an opportunity offer for exchange would be much
gratified to have them returned to the regiment : Sergt. Samuel White,
Corpl. Calvin Wilson, Privates Adam Carter, Charles Carter, B. C.
Hutson, Andrew Hutson.
I am, very respectfully,
C. H. STEVENS,
Colonel Twenty-fourth Regiment South Carolina Vols.
Capt. JOSEPH WALKER, A. A. #., Secessionville, 8. C.
MAY 22, 1862.— Expedition to John's Island, S. C.
Report of Brig. Gen Nathan G. Evan*, C. S. Army, commanding Third
Military District of South Carolina.
HDQRS. THIRD MILITARY DIST. OF SOUTH CAROLINA,
Adams Run, S. C., May 23, 18G2.
vesterd^ witSTn ?eT^n°U° rcl)ort,th{lt I Proceeded to John's Island
lay with Col. John Dunovant's command— eight companies of
CttA*, *xvr.] JAMES AND DIXONT8 ISLANDS, 8 C. 19
infantry, the Marion Artillery, and two companies of cavalry-with the
intention of driving the enemy, should he be found, off the isla K ,
his gunboats. Leaving Colonel Means' and Colone Slaurfite r\ v-
ments as a reserve at Church Flats, with the force above named 11 m ide
a thorough reconnaissance of both islands and found that the ene
had returned to their ships All the wagons [negroes?] were i , '
diately ordered to be removed, and the troops had collected about 200
before I left, and are now at Church Flats. As there are greater accom
modations m the city, I have directed them to be sent to workhouse
to be fed and taken care of by the owners. I was compelled to issue
rations to them till provisions could be secured from the different plan
tations. I have still one infantry [company] and cavalry on John's
Island removing the negroes and destroying whatever cotton is found
When this work is finished I will withdraw all the force except foul-
companies of cavalry.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
N. G. EVANS,
Brigadier- General, Commanding.
Maj. J. E. WADDY,
Assistant Adjutant- General, Charleston, 8. C.
MAY 25, 1862. — Affair between James and Dixon's Islands, S. C.
Report of Brig. Gen. 8. R. Gist, C. S. Army.
HEADQUARTERS JAMES ISLAND AND DEPENDENCIES,
Secessionville, 8. C., May 25, 1862 — 8 p. m.
SIR : I have the honor to report the only occurrence of interest after
the departure to-day of the brigadier-general commanding:
Captain Bonneau's gunboat was left by the steamer Chesterfield at
the bridge between Dixon's and James Islands this morning. The
enemy perceiving the steamer Chesterfield as she was placing Captain
Bonneau's gunboat in position fired into her and inflicted a slight
injury. The captain of the Chesterfield immediately left Captain Bon
neau's boat and ran off to Secessiouville. On my arrival here about 5
p. m. I ordered the Chesterfield back to bring off the gunboat. Cap
tain Bonneau, being left at the bridge, was directed to return the
enemy's fire, but not to fire first. The enemy's gunboats in passing the
opening between Dixon's and James Islands discovered and opened
fire on Captain Bonneau's boat. The fire was promptly returned by
Captain Bonneau. The enemy fired some five or six shots; Captain
Bonneau some fifteen, when the enemy retired toward Cole's Island,
out of sight and out of range. Captain Bonneau is confident that he
struck the enemy's boat twice; his own boat was untouched. Colonel
Stevens reports that Captain Bonneau and his men handled their guns
with great accuracy and behaved with admirable coolness. After the
enemy's boats had retired the Chesterfield went down and brought ott
our boat. I have directed Captain Bonueau to resume his former posi
tion near Morris Island.
I have the honor to be, your obedient servant,
b. K. Glol,
Brigadier General, Commanding.
Capt. LEO. D. WAJLKER, Assistant Adjutant- General.
20 ' COASTS OF 8. C., OA., AND MID. AXD EAST FLA. [<W. XXV!.
MAY 29, 1862.— Skirmisli at Pocotaligo, S. C.
REPORTS.
fc , -Brig. Gen. Isaac I. Stevens, U. S. Army, commanding Second Brigade, North
ern District. Department of the South
Carolina.
^O. 1.
Report of Brig. Gen. Isaac I. Sterns, U. S. Army commanding Second
Brigade, Northern District, Department 0} the South.
UDQKS. 3D BUI*, *OBTH*BN l>S%aaai
SIR- My previous dispatches and telegrams have apprised you of the
steps taktMi bv me to make the demonstration of the day before yester-
da on the railroad and of the success of that demonstration. To reca-
l YmJr'Te'Eram readied me at 6 o'clock p. m. on the 28th and I
Understood the telegram as directing me to make a strike according to
the original programme, even though it should cause the getting atidat
of mv command for another object to be deferred until Saturday morn
ing. " 1 accordingly made my arrangements and communicated with
you bv telegraph. . ,
2. Your letter per Mattano, which reached me about 7 o'clock, advised
me that your intention was that the stroke should be made with my
depot force, but it was not to be made if the force was deemed insuffi
cient or if it would endanger the getting of my command afloat on the
evening of the 30th.
3. Being satisfied that the force indicated would be sufficient to strike
the railroad at Pocotaligo and that by proper arrangements I could
get the force afloat in season I simply modified the orders accordingly,
all of which I set forth in my dispatch of the same evening, from which .
I beg leave to make the following extract:
Yonr dispatch (telegram) never reached me till a quarter before 6 o'clock by my
own or 6 o'clock by the Beaufort time ; too late to gefc an answer through to-night.
I however at once got my command in readiness to push the operation on the rail
road so far as possible according to the original programme, when receiving your
letter per Mattam I modified it so that the Fiftieth Regiment, with one company of
the Highlanders and one company of the Eighth Michigan as fatigue parties and one
section of Kockwell's battery, with all the force which can be spared from the cavalry,
will by 11 o'clock start for the ferry and bo crossed by daylight. I shall direct them
to at t. nipt simply the destruction of the road in the vicinity of Pocotaligo and the
Tuliiiny and to return immediately. I will have the two fatigue companies brought
in from the f«-rry in wagons to-morrow evening, so they may be in condition to go on
board Friday morning. Early in the morning I shall send ont strong detachments
from each company of the troops destined for the work of Friday to the vicinity of
the ferry as a reserve, who will return in the cool of the afternoon. The force which
remains will under the several colonels prepare for Friday.
4. My arrangements for bringing boats to the ferry were remarkably
successful. Lieutenant Brown, Eighth Michigan, was dispatched to the
advanced posts with orders to Captain Lewis to bring to the ferry all
the boats at Seatoook and other points. Lieutenant Adams, Fiftieth
Pennsylvania Volunteers, was senj to Ladies Island with similar orders
to Captain Dimock, in command on that island. They brought twelve
flats and boats to the ferry before the arrival of the troops. Twelve
CHAP. XXVI.] SKIRMISH AT POCOTALIGO, S. C. 21
flats, including the ferry-boat, were started from Beaufort at 9 30 o'clock
each flat maimed by a soldier and 6 negroes, all under the charge of
Lieutenant Donohue, Eighth Michigan, and reached the ferry about day
light. The troops commenced crossing at 3 p. m. Much delay occurred
in the passage of both the cavalry and artillery. The infantry com-
meuced their march at 5 a, m., the cavalry at G a. in., but the artillery
not till 8, and the latter were furthermore delayed in the road nearly
two hours in feeding and watering their animals. The officer in charge.
Lieutenant Gannon (his tirst experience in service), states that he used
every exertion to push up, but did not reach the advance till the enemy
had been routed. The inclosed report of Colonel Christ will give th'e
details of the affair. The enemy was handsomely driven from his
position. Two prisoners were taken. He experienced considerable
loss in killed and wounded. But on examining his cartridge boxes
Colonel Christ found but little ammunition was left. Although his
advance were in direct view and only a quarter of a mile fiom the rail
road he determined to fall back and return to Beaufort. As he fell
back, although some of the enemy's vedettes kept in view of him, no
serious attack on him was attempted, and the return was very leisurely
made.
5. The troops designated as reserves, viz, 25 men from each company
of the Eighth Michigan and Seventy -ninth Highlanders not on other
duty, and 40 men from each company of the One hundredth Pennsyl
vania, moved off according to orders, and were at their appropriate
positions at the ferry, Camp Stevens, and the 7 mile post at the time
designated.
6. At 1 o'clock I learned that the troops would not be put afloat
until the 31st, and at 3.30 o'clock (having gone to the ferry in the mean
time) that Colonel Christ had had a sharp engagement with the enemy
in force superior to his own. 1 then determined to send the Highlanders
to Garden's Corners as a reserve, and afterward sent to the same point
the Eighth Michigan. The former numbered 225 and the latter 150
men. The One hundredth Pennsylvania were advanced to the ferry.
These forces were advanced out of abundant caution, and not in conse
quence of there being esteemed an imperative necessity for so doing.
7. The troops all returned in good condition, the force of Colonel
Christ of course much fatigued. They all recrossed the ferry before 4
o'clock the morning of the 30th, and had therefore marched 33 miles,
fought two hours, and made twro difficult river crossings in some twenty-
seven hours. This I consider a remarkable case of endurance, for i
must be borne in mind that the weather was warm, and the operation
was undertaken on the jump and at the close of the day.
8. The operation, in short, was 'most successful as a recommit
or demonstration, and it is very certain, could the original program
have been carried out, that the whole line would have been I
from Salkehatchie to Coosawhatchie. It proves the correctness
information which I had previously gained—that the enemy was
any considerable force at the railroad. ,
9. The crossings at the ferry, both going and returning and 1
the entire operation, were in charge of Captain Lewis and Lieute
Brown and Donohue, Eighth Michigan. They are deserving ot pa,
lar mention for their skill and endurance. Captain '"« » ;
-1 q.-j -r^ • . '..J_ 1 .-.:^-l. !,•:« ,»,-ltlir\ri11V lit th»> IVl I 111.
to
ad jut:
brigade quartermaster.
22 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVI.
of iny aide, Lieutenant Lyons, who accompanied bim and acted as his
;iid«- during the affair.
10. Our casualties were 2 killed and 9 wounded. Captain Parker was
amoiiir the killed— a most gallant officer, conspicuous for his gallantry
in this atlair, and an officer whose whole course has given promise of
distinction.
1 am, sir. very respectfully, your obedient servant,
ISAAC I. STEVENS,
Brigadier- General, Commanding.
Capt. A. B. ELY,
Assistant Adjutant- General, Hilton Head, S. C.
No. 2.
Reports of Col. Benjamin C. Christ, Fiftieth Pennsylvania Infantry.
POOOTALIGO, May 29, 1862.
DEAR GENERAL : After a spirited engagement, which lasted two
hours, we succeeded in driving the enemy from their cover, and the
cavalry is now in full pursuit. We have 2 killed and 5 wounded. I
iv.uivt to say that Captain Parker is one of the killed. We will pro
ceed at once to the railroad. The battery has just arrived. We should
h;i\ «• some ambulances to bring our dead and wounded.
Yours, respectfully,
B. C. CHRIST,
Colonel Fiftieth Pennsylvania Volunteers.
General STEVENS, Beaufort, S. C.
P. S.— I have just learned from a wounded prisoner that their loss
is severe and that their force was at least 800.
POCOTALIGO, May 29, 1862.
SIR: Upon investigation I find that the men have not over 12 rounds
of cartridges on the average. I also learn from negroes that the des
perate stand made by the enemy al this point was in the expectation
of re-enforcements from Grahamville and McPhersonville. At the lat
ter place it is said they have 600, and they expected a larger force from
the former.
After consulting with the officers, and in view of your orders to avoid
era] engagement, I have considered discretion the better part of
valor, and leave 2.30 o'clock for Beaufort.
Yours,
B. C. CHRIST,
Colonel Fiftieth Pennsylvania Volunteers.
General STEVENS.
BEAUFORT, S. C., May 30, 1862.
In pursuance to orders I left Beaufort at 10.30 o'clock on the
evening ol the 28th with my regiment and one company of the Eighth
CHAP. XXVI.] SKIRMISH AT POCOTALIGO, S. C. 23
Michigan Volunteers, Captain Doyle, and one company of the Seventy
ninth New York Volunteers, Captain Elliott, and proceeded to iWt
Koyal Ferry. We succeeded in getting on the main-land by daylMit
and immediately took up my line of march for Pocotaligo via Garden's
Corners. About 2 miles from the ferry we commenced drivin«- in the
enemy's pickets, and did so three times before we reached Garden's
Corners. At this point I left Company E, Lieutenant Lautz command
ing, and at this point also Major Higginson, First Massachusetts Cav
alry, reported to me with 80 men and horses. I again took up my line
of march for Pocotaligo via the Sheldon road, and save the drivi'n" in
of the enemy's pickets several times, which caused us considerable de
lay, we reached Pocotaligo without further interruption.
Here the enemy had chosen a most favorable position, and we suf
fered the casualties (which I will mention hereafter) in a successful^flbrt
to dislodge him. As you reach Pocotaligo, you do so over a causeway
about a quarter of a mile in length, flanked partly on either side by a
marsh, and through which passes a stream. About 80 yards from the
end of the causeway over this stream was a bridge about 15 feet wide,
which the enemy had so far destroyed as to make it impassable save by
passing over the string pieces, about 6 inches wide. On the opposite
side of the marsh from Pocotaligo there is a narrow strip of woods.
Through this we skirmished, and then ascertained that the enemy was
posted under cover of trees and ditches within good rifle-range on either
side of the causeway. Some small firing now ensued with very little
effect on either side. It however became evident that in order to dis
lodge the enemy we must have a nearer range for our arms, and the
lamented Captain Parker then volunteered to take his company across
the stream on the string pieces and let them drop into a ditch on our
right, where they would be partially under cover. This movement was
successful.
After some considerable time I succeeded in passing over about 300
men, under command of Lieutenant-Colonel Brenholtz, who gradually
approached the opposite side of the marsh and succeeded in dislodging
the enemy on our right, which was followed by a charge on the left,
when the enemy commenced a rapid retreat to the woods. As soon as
it could be done I had the bridge relaid, and immediately ordered the
cavalry in pursuit, but the enemy having taken refuge in a wood where
cavalry could not operate successfully I had to pursue him with infantry,
but unfortunately the men were so jaded and worn-out with their long
march of 24 miles that they could not pursue him as rapidly as he re
treated.
At this time Lieutenant Cannon, with a section of the Connecticut
battery, reported himself, having just arrived on the ground. In my
judgment, if the artillery had been on the ground when the action com
menced we could have dislodged the enemy in a very short time am
proceeded to accomplish the object of the expedition ; but the acti
itself lasted nearly two hours, and by the time I could recall the c
panics in pursuit of the enemy and again get ready to move more thu
three hours had elapsed ; besides, the men had so much reduced t
ammunition that I was not willing to risk another engagement, wli
I had every reason to expect awaited me at the railroad to where • th
enemy had retreated, and, as I had been informed by the negroes, he>
were sure to meet re-enforcements from McPhersouville and
71 In view of the positive orders I received to return ^ PortBoyaj
Island during the niglit, and to avoid, if possible, bringing on a gen
24 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAI-. XXVI.
\vlini the outer pickets of Company E repulsed them by nnhorsing one
of their number. At Garden's Corners I met a detachment of the
Kiuhth Michigan Regiment, Lieutenant-Colonel Graves commanding,
and a detachment of the Seventy-ninth New York, under command of
( 'a i >tain More. As soon as we arrived at the ferry I immediately com
menced to cross over, and by 3 o'clock (morning) the entire force was
on this side the Coosaw River.
Our loss during the engagement was 2 killed and 9 wounded, for de
tails of which I respectfully refer you to the accompanying report of
Dr. Siemens, regimental surgeon. What the enemy's loss is it is diffi
cult jo say, but from all I can learn it must be much greater than ours.
We captured 2 prisoners, one of which I have already sent to head
quarters, and the other is in the hospital, wounded. It is also difficult
to .state the force of the enemy, but it could not have been less than
from GOO to 800. There were six companies of mounted riflemen, be
sides infantry, among which were a considerable number of colored
men. Among the killed is Capt. Charles EL Parker, Company H, who
fell while gallantly cheering his men to duty.
Before leaving Pocotaligo 1 had the bridge over that river destroyed.
My object in this was that in any future expedition to this point it
would prevent the enemy from cutting off our retreat by sending forces
from Grahamville.
I regret to state that on yesterday morning, near Stewart's plantation,
Lieutenant Rush, Company B, was dangerously wounded by the acci
dental discharge of his pistol.
I cannot speak too highly of the conduct of both officers and men
under my command. ^ They proved themselves soldiers not only in name
but in deed. I gratefully acknowledge the assistance of Colonel Bren-
holts, Major Overtoil, and Adjutant Eodgers, of the Fiftieth Pennsyl
vania Volunteers; Major Higginson, of the First Massachusetts Cav
alry, and of Lieutenant Lyons, aide-de-camp to General Stevens.
All of which is respectfully submitted.
B. C. CHRIST,
lolonel, Commanding Fiftieth Regiment Pa. Vols.
Capt. H. STEVENS,
Assistant Adjutant-General
No. 3.
Report of Col W. S. Walker, C. 8. Army, commanding Third Military
District of tiouth Carolina.
HEADQUARTERS THIRD MILITARY DISTRICT
McPhersonville, S. C., June 6, 1862.
CHAP. XXVI.] SKIRMISH AT POCOTALIGO, S. C. 25
advancing to attack the railroad. When arriving upon the field I found
that Maj. J H. Morgan, assisted by Capt. W. L. Trenholm, had made
a judicious disposition of a small dismounted force, which consisted of
Capt. W. L. Trenholm's company (Rutledge Mounted Riflumen) sta
tioued in the woods at Old Pocotaligo, 38 men, and two companies (A
and D, First Battalion Cavalry), 38 men, lining the left bank of Sere
.,, ~ o - - companies ^
cavalry, with Capt. D. B. Hey ward's company, were held in reserve
with the dismounted horses, half a mile in the rear, all under command
of Maj. J. H. Morgan, with orders to be in readiness to charge the enemy
when required. A number of these men were without long arms.
Upon the approach of the enemy's advance guard the dismounted
cavalry companies opened fire with their shot-guns at the distance of
40 yards. They returned the fire, and commenced deploying to the
right and left near the banks of the canal. The Rutledge Mounted
Riflemen fired deliberately one shot at a time at intervals as the enemy
would expose themselves. Five companies crossed the road and de
ployed to the right. I should judge two companies deployed to the left.
Both kept up a scattered and continuous fire with long range guns.
The small force of 76 men held their position with great spirit and
tenacity for nearly three hours, from 10.30 to near 1.30.
At this time the enemy crossed the ditch to the right of Lieut. R. M.
Skinner's command, thus flanking himt and enabling them to cut the
Rutledge Mounted Riflemen from the causeway in the rear. Lieut. R.
M. Skinner was shot down, and his men retired by the left under shelter
of the ditch. I ordered the Rutledge Mounted Riflemen to retire, which
they did in good order. Lieut. R. M. Skinner and Private Robert Stuart,
of the Rutledge Mounted Riflemen, were brought off' seriously wounded.
On reaching the dismounted horses the whole command retired in
good order to a position three-quarters of a mile in rear of the former.
Here we met the ammunition which had been sent for, and the whole
force was resupplied. The enemy had been held in check so long and
the ground was so difficult for cavalry that I deployed two-thirds of my
command upon the banks of a ditch crossing the road. As we retired
I detailed a small party of the Rutledge Mounted Riflemen to remain
in observation. I sent out 0 of the Rutledge Mounted Riflemen to the
left under Lieut. L. J. Walker, and 15 of the cavalry battalion under
Maj. J. H. Morgan. I stationed 2 of the latter within 400 yards of a
sentinel of the enemy who were occupying Old Pocotaligo.
At 4 o'clock I received a re-enforcement of three pieces of a light
battery, under Capt, Stephen Elliott, jr., and two companies infantry,
Companies I and F, of the Eleventh South Carolina Infantry, Capts.
Allen C. Izard and B. F. Wymau. I placed the battery in position
to command the road, and formed the infantry as skirmishers along
the banks of a long canal running nearly at right angles to the road.
Learning from my vedettes that the enemy were retiring I ad van ted in
pursuit with my entire force. As the enemy were retiring in good ord<
I had to feel my way carefully with skirmishers deployed to avoid am
buscade. Colonel Means' regiment of 400 men joined me in the mgin
We continued the pursuit till 10 o'clock at night, when my advance
guard was fired on by their rear guard. I rode up to the advance and
was informed bv Lieut. L. J. Walker, who was in command ot
advance guard, that he felt assured they had halted at Garden
and that the tiring was bv their outpost. The night was intense!} dai k,
26 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVI.
the country intricate, and intersected by ditches, by roads, and woods,
'ml 1 was fearful of risking the chances of a night attack, m which it
— +
iulii "be iVupossible to distinguish friend from foe. In my judgment
there wa* too great risk of that most melancholy of disasters when
friends .shoot each other by mistake in a blind melee.
The country was so broken that cavalry could not operate. My in
fantry was inferior in number to that of the enemy. It was reported
to me that the infantry could not, after the fatigue of the day, sustain
the inarch of 12 miles, which would have enabled them to get m the
rear of t he enemy by another route. Had they attempted it the enemy,
if disposed to retire, could cross before they reached it, as they had only
;\ miles to march. The probability of a gunboat being stationed at Port
Koyal Ferry to protect their retreat was an element to be duly consid
ered. I was forced unwillingly to the conclusion to halt and make the
attack early in the morning. With this view I ordered Colonel Phillips'
or-ia Le'uion, which I was notified had arrived at Pocotaligo, to join
me at day light The entire command was ordered to be ready to inarch
at daylight.
Early in the morning I advanced as far as Port Royal Ferry, ^here
I found the enemy had crossed during the night. Capt. Stephen Elliott,
jr., brought up his artillery and battered the ferry-house, which sheltered
their pickets, and their flat-boats, with which they had eHected a cross
ing, at the range of 250 yards. As stated by a corporal of the enemy
taken prisoner, their force consisted of twelve companies of infantry,
viz: Fiftieth Pennsylvania Regiment, one company of Eighth Michigan,
one company of New York, on'e of cavalry, and two pieces of artillery.
The whole force 1 had actually engaged was 76 men rank and file. One
hundred and ten were in reserve and holding horses, a considerable
number only armed with sabers. The remainder of my iorce was on
picket duty and watching other roads by which the enemy might ap
proach. The smallness of the list of killed and wounded presented after
such protracted firing is accounted for by the thorough protection af
forded the skirmishers by the banks of the canal, of the shelter of which
they availed themselves in retreating by a line parallel to that of the
enemy, rejoining their horses by a circuit to the left.
I would specially commend the soldierly bearing of Capt. W. L. Tren-
holm and Lieut. L. J. Walker, of the Rutledge Mounted Riflemen;
Lieut. R. M. Skinner, of Company A, and Sergeant Lesesne, of same
company ; Corpl. W. H. Jeffers and Privates Joseph D. Taylor and W.
K. Steadman, of the Rutledge Mounted Riflemen.
I was much indebted to Capt. W. W. Elliott, acting ordnance officer,
for his information of the topography of the country.
Lieut. Ed. II. Barn well, acting assistant adjutant-general, showed
great zeal and gallantry, and was exposed to a sharp and close fire while
aiding me in the engagement.
I cannot too highly commend the pertinacity and spirit shown by the
small command of the First Battalion Cavalry, under Lieut. R. M. Skin
ner, of Company A, while exposed to a close and rapid fire of a greatly
superior force.
The Rutledgo Mounted Riflemen, armed with a long-range rifle, were
placed at a greater distance from the enemy. Throughout the contest
they behaved with great steadiness and courage, and illustrated the
excellent discipline and drill for which the corps is conspicuous.
Lieut. L. J. Vi alker, with G of the Rutledge Mounted Riflemen, formed
the advance guard while following the enemy. Lieut. L. J. Wafker per-
the responsible duty assigned him with skill and courage.
CHAP. XXVI.] • SKIRMISH ON JAMES ISLAND, S. C. 27
List of killed and wounded.
Command.
I
Wonndod.
|
BUTLEDGJS MOUNTED R1FUMEH.
Privates
FIRST BATTALION CAVALRT.
Company A. :
Officers
Privates
Company C :
Privates
Grand total
2
6
1
The loss of the enemy is supposed to have been larger, but could not
be certainly ascertained, as his killed and wounded were carried off iu
wagons seized on the neighboring plantations.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
W. S. WALKER,
Colonel, Commanding Third Military District.
Maj. J. K. WADDY, Assistant Adjutant- General.
HDQRS. DEPT. OF SOUTH CAROLINA AND GEORGIA,
Charleston, 8. C., June 13, 1562.
COLONEL : I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your report
of the engagement of May 29 between the troops of your command and
a comparatively large force of the enemy at or near Pocotaligo. The
major-general commanding directs me to thank that portion of the
troops engaged for their gallant, noble, and daring conduct on that
occasion in meeting and holding in check a much larger force for sev
eral hours, fighting the enemy at every available point with the usual
gallantry, thus saving the railroad from capture.
I am, colonel, very respectfully,
J. R. WADDY,
Assistant Adjutant- General.
Col. W. S. WALKER, Comdg. Third Military District.
JUNE 3, 1862.— Skirmish on James Island, S. C.
No. 1.— Lieut. Ocran H. Howard, Acting Signal Officer, U. S. Army.
No. 2.— Brig. Gen. S. R. Gist, C. S. Army.
No. 3.— Lieut. Col. Ellison Capers, Twenty-fourth South Carolina Infante]
No. 4.— Lieut. Col. P. C. Gaillard, Twenty-seventh South Carolina Infantry.
No. 1.
Report of Lieut. Ocran H. Howard, Acting Signal Officer, U. S. Army.
SIGNAL STATION, Beaufort, S. C., June 23, 1862.
CAPTAIN: I have the honor to report that on^hel8t_d^_af
~ *Soe also "Confederate Correspo^ic^^ of Jime ^ lc
28 COASTS or s c., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP xxvi.
embarked at Beaufort on board the United States transport Flora, with
lirig. pen. Isaac I. Stevens, commanding Second Division, Department
of thQ South, for J;:mes island. South Carolina. On Monday, the 2d
June, I reached James Island, and the troops were landed. On Tues
day, 3d, a reconnaissance in force was made by the troops composing
the First Brigade. That the gunboats might be made of service in
this affair I was ordered by Lieutenant Keenan. chief signal officer, on
board the United States gunboat Unadilla, Captain Collins, and imme
diately opened communication with Lieutenant Keenan on shore. The
enemy in front of our forces held a position in the woods, where they
had planted a masked battery. These woods were entirely concealed
from the Unadilla by intervening woods; but previous to the advance
of our troops Lieutenant Keenan, so stationed that he could see both
the woods occupied by the enemy and the gunboats, had so directed
the fire through me that the 11 -inch shells from the Unadilla were
doing as much execution as if the enemy's position had been in plain
sight. When our forces were thrown forward General Stevens sent
me the following message: "Fire as rapidly as possible and we will
take their guns." This was done, and the next message was, "Cease
tiring/' Soon after came the message, "We have taken three of their
guns." Thereafter, up to the day of the assault upon the Tower Bat
tery, hardly a day elapsed that I was not doing signal duty on board
one of the gunboats, in communication with Lieutenants Keenan, Taff't,
or Hickok. I did signal duty on gunboats Unadilla, Pembina, Henry
Andrews, Hale, and Ellen. These vessels after the occupation of James
Island fired hardly a shot except under my directions, and in all re
connaissances I was at my post and in constant communication with
the signal officer on shore.
On the day of the assault on the Tower Battery I was on the gun-
Sllen, and for ati account of services rendered that day I respect
fully refer you to the official report of General Stevens, to those parts
of it wherein I am mentioned, once in connection with Lieutenant Tafft
and again by myself.
I have the honor to be, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
O. H. HOWARD,
First Lieutenant and Acting Signal Officer.
SAMUEL T. GUSHING,
Captain, Second Infantry, Acting Signal Officer, in Charge.
No. 2.
Report of Brig. Gen, S. R. Gist, C. S. Army.
HEADQUARTERS EASTERN DIVISION,
James Island, 'S. <?., June 12, 1862.
CHAP. XXVI.1 SKIRMISH ON JAMES ISLAND, S. C 29
engagement Brigadier-General Mercer arrived and assumed command
and made the subsequent disposition of the forces
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
S. R. GIST,
Brigadier- General, Commanding.
Maj. J. E. WADDY,
Asst. Adjt. Gen., DepL South Carolina and Georgia.
No. 3.
Report of Lieut. Col. Ellison Capers, Ticenty-fourth South Carolina
Infantry.
CAMP 24TH S. C. YOL. REGT., ADVANCE FORCES,
James Island, S. C., June 10, 1862.
COLONEL : I have the honor to report the details of the recent en
gagement with the enemy's advance at Legare"'s place, below Seces
sion ville, on the 3d instant:
In obedience to your direction I left the camp before daylight with
four companies of the Twenty-fourth, the Marion Eifles, Pee^Dee Eifles,
Evans Guard, and Colleton Guard, to remove the guns of Captain
Chichester's battery, which were bogged in the marsh at the causeway
below Eivers'. Arrived at Secession ville, it was reported to me by
Colonel Lamar that our pickets had been driven in to Elvers' and that
the guns were covered by the enemy. I reported this to the general,
who ordered me to take my companies and drive him back until the
fire of his boats obliged me to withdraw. I moved down to Rivers'
and found the picket force, consisting of the Beauregard Light In
fantry and the Charleston Riflemen, at that point and the enemy's
advance in the pines just in their front. I ordered these companies to
join my command, and formed my line at the head of the causeway,
facing Leg-are's ; threw out the Marion Eifles, Captain Sigwald, as
skirmishers, and ordered him to push on and draw the fire of the
enemy. This was well and promptly done, the Marions soon occupy
ing the pines and the enemy's skirmishers retiring. I crossed the
causeway by flank and deployed on the other side, throwing my com
panies forward on the right, when we engaged the enemy warmly until,
our fire becoming too severe, he fell back to the edge of the wood on
this side of Legare's old field.
After a half hour's firing in this position we moved into the wood
and drove through, the enemy retreating across the old field to the
houses beyond. Our way was now unobstructed, the enemy occupying
the Legare houses beyond and the long hedge to the east of them,
from which he poured in a strong fire, most of which passed entirely
over us. A regiment, which I afterward ascertained to be the Twenty-
eighth Massachusetts, constituted his reserve, and was posted below
the negro houses, a quarter of a mile to the south. I determined, by
a rapid charge on the main buildings, to cut off the advance from this
support, the only difficulty being that at Legare's we would he open to
the river and within a half mile. But 1 resolved to attempt it. Just
at this period Lieutenant-Colonel Gaillard with his command, a
124 strong, reported to me and I assigned him a position, and ordered
the Evans Guard, Captain Gooding; Charleston Riflemen, laeute
Lynch ; Irish Volunteers, Captain Ry an ; Beauregard Light Intautrj,
30 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVt
Captain White; Sumter Guard, Lieut. J. Ward Hopkins, and the Cal-
houn Guard, Captain Miles, to perform this duty, while Lieutenant-
< 'oionel Gaillanl took command of the center and left as a reserve. It
vaa well and nobly performed, 22 prisoners being captured, including
a raptain and sergeant, all of the One hundredth Pennsylvania Regi
ment The prisoners in our possession and the enemy driven back to
his support (which promptly took position in and behind the row of
nej^ro houses) the boats opened a brisk fire on us, while we received
our <>nly damaging fire from the negro huts. I therefore ordered a
retirement to the wood, which was performed in good order and under
cover «>f the fire from our left, wfcere the remainder of the Charleston
I'.aitalion, with three of my companies, were posted. I deemed it
pmjM-r to retire the force beyond the causeway to Riversv, where I took
position by the general's directions. I would have retained the wood
had 1 had a force sufficient to cover my right, which was open to the
enemy and immediately under the fire of his boats.
Tin- following is a list of the casualties of the Beauregard Light
Infantry, Pee Dee Rifles, and Evans Guard.* The report of Lieuten
ant-Colonel Gaillard, which is herewith forwarded, showrs the result in
his command, which makes our total injury sustained 17 wounded (1
of which was mortal) and 1 missing.
From a prisoner captured on Saturday last 1 learned that Lieutenant
Walker was not dangerously wounded and was doing well, being held
a prisoner at Legareville. The same prisoner informs me that many
of the enemy were wounded, 2 having since died, and that several
were killed. lie represents the regiment engaged to have been the
One hundredth Pennsylvania, and the reserve to have consisted of the
Twenty-eighth Massachusetts and Forty-ninth New York.f
The officers and men under my command behaved with coolness and
determined bravery. I have no special mention to make of any one
rtinguished behavior. Captain Cliue surrendered his sword to
Captaiir Ryan, of the Irish Volunteers, who now wears it as a trophy
of his gallantry. To Lieutenant-Colonel Gaillard and his gallant com
mand I return my thanks for their prompt and efficient support. The
companies of the Twenty-fourth, after a long march and without break-
last, went into the action with spirit and sustained it throughout.
ith gratitude to God for our success, I have the honor to be, col
onel, very respectfully and truly, your obedient servant,
ELLISON CAPERS,
^ Lieutenant- Colonel Twenty -fourth South Carolina Volunteers.
Col. C. H. STEVENS, Comdg. Twenty-fourth South Carolina Vols.
No. 4.
Report of Lieut. Col P. C. Gaillard, C. S. Army, commanding Charleston
Battalion.
HEADQUARTERS CHARLESTON BATTALION,
Secensionville, S. C., June 6, 1862
CHAP, XXVt.j AFFAIR AT PORT ROYAL FERRY, 8. C. 31
yourself, I assembled the five companies of my battalion (one the
Charleston Kiflemeu, being already with you) to re-enforce yon.' On
reaching the scene of action and receiving orders I disposed of them
as you directed. Soon after joining you called on me for three com-
panics to join in a charge on the buildings occupied by the enemy and
the Irish Volunteers, Surnter Guards, and Calhoun Guards were desig
nated for that duty, and well did they respond. By some misappre
hension a part of the Union Light Infantry also joined in the charge,
but being more remote, had not reached the buildings when our forces
were ordered to retire.
I would here remark that the Charleston Kiflemen, previously under
your command, was designated by yourself as one to join in the charge.
I joined in the charge also, but seeing you up with them, I fell back
to take charge of the line in rear. I cannot in consequence designate
any particular officer or man as deserving special note, but so tar as
my observation went all behaved well. Those who remained in rear
kept up a steady fire on the enemy until ordered to retire.
It is due to my battalion to state that the Charleston Riflemen had
been on picket duty the day and night before, and the other five com
panies had been on duty the day before, and were not relieved until 3
o'clock Tuesday morning.
My adjutant, Second Lieut. Henry Walker, fell severely wounded near
the buildings, and, I regret to say, could not be brought from the field
(though a party did attempt it), and fell into the hands of the enemy.
The following is a list of casualties in Charleston Battalion in skir
mish of June 3 : *
I have the honor to remain, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
P. C. GAILLARD,
Lieutenant- Colonel, Comdg. Charleston Battalion.
Lieut. Col. ELLISON CAPERS.
JUNE 6, 1862.— Affair at Port Royal Ferry, S. C.
Report of Col. W. S. Walker, C. 8. Army, commanding Third Military
District of South Carolina.
HEADQUARTERS THIRD MILITARY DISTRICT,
McPhersonviUe, S. C., June 7, 1862.
MAJOR : I have the honor to report that a detail of 20 men of the
Beaufort Artillery, under Capt. Stephen Elliott, as a boat party, si
ported by 40 infantry of Company I, Eleven th Regiment South Carol i
Volunteers, Lieut, E. B. Lay less commanding, and lo of the Kut
Mounted Riflemen, under Lieut. J. C. Warley, the support being wider
my immediate command, proceeded to the Port Royal Ferry on the
night of the Gth instant and destroyed the flats which had been us
by the enemy on the night of May 29 in crossing the river to attack
railroad, wounded severely 2 of the enemy's pickets, and *
ferry-house, No loss upon our side. „
I am indebted to Capt, Stephen Elliott, who ^a Mite ""*"•••
soldier, for the efficient organization of the expedition. t , txh iim u
coolness, adroitness, and resolution in successiully (
* Nominal list omitted shows 8 enlisted men wounded and 3 miming.
32 COASTS OF S. C., OA., AND MID AND EAST FLA. .C,ur. CXT
,„„,,, H.w««, his ™*&*ttJ&jS&£™
'™ .
n,, . . .
eeneral, .•ili.-i.-ntly assisted me during tbe aftair.
Very respectfully, your obedient servan^ g (
CoZoneJ, Commanding Third Military District.
Mai. J. B. WADDY,
A .vs i sta n t A dju ta nt- General.
JUNE 7, 1862.— Skirmish on John's Island, S. C.
Report of Lieut, R. W. Crawford, C. S. Army, First South Carolina
Cavalry.
CAMP WALKER,
John's Island, S. C., July 1, 1862.
The following is a correct statement of the casualties of the pickets
of the First Itegiment South Carolina Volunteer Cavalry in the skirmish
with the enemy at their picket post on John's Island, June 7 :
I was placed in command of the picket post at the fork of the roads
leading to Legareville and Haulover Bridge, which picket numbered 20
men. Not expecting to be placed on picket when we left camp, we had
not provided ourselves with forage and provisions, and consequently
were reduced to the necessity of sending men back to each company
to procure them, which, however, was not done without the consent of
the captain commanding the regiment, and which also reduced us to 18
men. My orders when stationed there were to remain at the fork of
the roads with the main body of the picket, and to place two vedettes
down each road 2 miles distant, with orders to report to me on the first
appearance of the enemy, which was done immediately when the enemy
appeared and fired on the vedettes on the Legareville road. I sent
couriers forthwith to report to Colonel Means (who with his regiment
was only 2 miles in the rear) and to the other command on the island,
and also a courier down the Haulover road for the two vedettes who
were 2 miles distant, while I with the remainder of the pickets advanced
down the Legareville road and met the enemy, whose force I discovered
to consist ot a company of cavalry and detachment of infantry (or men
on foot). By concealing my force in the woods I managed to engage
and detain him until my vedettes on the other road arrived, after which
we retreated hi good order, firing as we went. The enemy's cavalry,
perceiving that we were retreating, charged us, and three or four of my
men left and tied. Fortunately for them 1 do not know their names arid
am unable to report them, as they justly deserve. The men were all
strangers to me except three or four, as our companies had not been
together but a few days, and there were only two men from my own com
pany. I learn through Colonel Means that the three men that left me
did not stop when they met him with his regiment, but ran through and
reported that the enemy, were just behind, which contributed to his
mistaking us for the enemy as he did, for he opened fire on us as soon
CHAP. XXVI J SKIRMISH ON JAMES ISLAND, S. C. 33
as we came in range, and we were then exposed to bis fire and that of
the enemy too.
The following is a list of the casualties.* Number of horses killed 7
Eespectfully submitted.
K. W. CKAWFORD,
Lieutenant, Commanding Picket.
JUNE 8, 1862.— Skirmish on James Island, S. C.
Report of Brig. Gen. Isaac I. Stevens, U. S. Army.
HEADQUARTERS SECOND DIVISION,
James Island, 8. C., June 8, 1862.
SIR : I have the honor to report that in obedience with your order a
reconnaissance was made of our left up the road leading from Griin-
ball's plantation by the Forty-sixth Eegiment New York Volunteers
and a company of the First Massachusetts Cavalry, all under command
of Colonel J. H. Morrow, of General Hunter's staff. Our column pushed
up as far as the church, which was examined last evening by Lieuten
ant-Colonel Hawley, Seventh Connecticut, and Lieutenant Lyons, of
my staff, and meeting with a heavy force of skirmishers of the enemy
it was deemed prudent to withdraw. Our loss was 2 killed and 5
wounded — all of the Forty-sixth Eegiment.
The enemy's position at Secession ville was observed from our right.
A floating battery of two heavy guns was seen moved close to the vil
lage. Two guns on field or siege carriages were observed on the work
on the left of Secessionville.
About 4 o'clock I directed Captain Stevens, of my staff', with a portion
of the Third New Hampshire to move across the causeway between our
pickets and those of the enemy, and pushed forward to the road half a
mile this side of the field work extending toward Newton's Cut. Accord
ingly the regiment was moved forward across the marsh and a platoon
of cavalry was thrown across the field toward the wood on the left.
Captain Donohoe's company was deployed as skirmishers and advanced
rapidly to the road beyond the house. A few rods this side the house
they captured a picket of 4 of the enemy, coming upon them unexpect
edly. On reaching the road the company was divided. The captain
and one platoon were sent directly forward to examine the enemy's
rifle pits in front of the field work ; the other platoon was sent up the
road to the left. When the captain and his platoon had advanced
within 200 yards of the rifle pits the enemy opened fire upon them wit
one field piece planted some distance behind the rifle pit, firing once in
three or four minutes. Soon after the floating battery opened with a
well-directed and well-sustained fire, but none of our men were touched.
The recall was then given, and the force then withdrew in good order
and safety. The other platoon had pushed up the road nearly a J
mile when ordered to fall back. Shortly after our force fell ba ck ^two
or three battalions of the enemy were observed to be posted behm
hedges and rifle pits in front of* the field work.
Our men behaved remarkably well, both infantry and cavalry,
manifested the greatest alacrity and daring throughout ^
* Nominal list omitted shows 1 enlisted man killed and 8 wounded.
3 R R— VOL XIV
34 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND Mll>. AND EAST FLA. [CHA,-
The prisoners consisted of a corporal and 3 privates of the Charles
ton Rifle Volunteers; have been interrogated by Lieutenant Wilson,
';i,,, l,',s t;ikr" down their information at length, and to whom 1 beg to
ivl'c-r you lor further particulars.
• , a,n, sir). very respectfully, your obed^nt "^^
Brigadier- General, Commanding.
Capt. A. B. EL?, Assistant Adjutant- General.
JUNE 8-9, 1862.— Affairs on John's Island, S. C.
Report of Brig. Gen. Nathan G. Evans, C. S. Army, commanding Second
Military District of South Carolina.
HEADQUARTERS SECOND MILITARY DISTRICT,
Adams Eun, S. C., June 11, 1862.
MAJOR : I have the honor to report, for the information of the major-
general commanding, that 1 attempted to attack the enemy at Bryan's,
on John's Island, on the night of the 9th instant. Marching my forces
within 3 miles of the bridge, I sent out a reconnoitering party to the
bridge over Aberpoolie Creek, and after a thorough survey of the house
found the enemy had retired to Legareville and left a small cavalry
picket at the bridge. I ordered a company of cavalry to capture the
I ticket. No report has been received yet.
In this connection I regret to report that on the evening of the 8th
instant, on retiring from the enemy, the cavalry pickets were fired into
by a company of the Seventeenth Itegiment, which resulted in wound
ing 4 men mortally, slightly wounding 4 others. This sad catastrophe
roiiltcd from the fact that the first men retiring hallooed, " Shoot the
Y ankees ; they are just behind." As soon as the remainder approached
our soldiers sent to support the picket fired into them with the above
result.
On tiie morning of the 10th instant, my infantry troops much wearied
from exposure, I withdrew to the main-land, keeping six companies of
cavalry and the Stono scouts on the islands. The approaches to the
railroad are well guarded. I will keep the major-general informed of
any movements of the enemy.
< )n the night of the 7th instant, on a reconnaissance, Captain Jenkins,
of the Rebel Troop, shot and captured Private Patrick Hayes, of the
Pint Massachusetts Cavalry. He refused to halt, When captured
Jenkins shot him through. Attempting still to escape, his horse was
immediately shot and the prisoner secured and brought to camp. He
Lingered t rooty-four hours and died in our camp. He informed Captain
JcnkmsthatBrig.Gen. Eobert Williams, formerly of the U.S. Dragoons,
commanded on James Island.
Tin- spirit with which the troops of my command underwent their
severe exposure is worthy of the highest commendation. Without any
food for twenty-four hours and in a drenching rain proves that they
are ready to repel the foe.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
N. G. EVANS,
Brigadier- General. Commanding.
Maj. J. K. WADDY, Asst. Adjt. Gen., Charleston, S. G,
CHAP. XXVI.] SKIRMISH ON JAMES ISLAND, S. C. 35
JUNE 10, 1862.— Skirmish on James Island, S. C.
REPORTS.
No. 1.— Brig. Geu. Horatio G. Wright, U. S. Army.
No. 2.-Col. Jolm L. Chatfield, Sixth Connecticut Infantry, commanding First Bri
gade, First Division.
No. 3.— Capt. Francis M. Hills, Forty-fifth Pennsylvania Infantry.
No. 1.
Report of Brig. Gen. Horatio G. Wright, U. S. Army.
HDQRS. U. S. FORCES, GRIMBALL'S PLANTATION,
James Island, 8. C., June 12, 1862.
CAPTAIN: 1 had the honor on the 10th instant* to inform you of an
affair between our pickets and a force of the enemy, consisting of the
Forty -seven tli Georgia Regiment, supported by a reserve, the strength
and character of which is not known. Since that time the report* of
the commander of the First and Second Brigades, First Division, and
the report of casualties have been received, copies of which I inclose.t
From the latter it will be seen that our loss was 3 killed and 19 wounded,
1 of whom has since died. The loss of the enemy must have been heavy,
as we have buried 14 of his dead, and C of his wounded have been taken
to our hospital, 2 of whom have since died. The enemy removed many
of his wounded during the skirmish.
The forces actually engaged in the affair were five companies of the
Ninety-seventh Pennsylvania Eegiment, Colonel Guss commanding;
two companies Forty-fifth Pennsylvania Eegiment, Captain Hills com
manding; two companies of the Fortyseventh New York Regiment,
Captain McDonald commanding, and four pieces of Company E, Third
U. S. Artillery, Captain Eausom commanding. The reserve of the
artillery and tlie remainder of the pickets were not brought into actual
conflict with the enemy. All the troops engaged conducted themselves
in the most admirable manner, evincing great steadiness and coolness.
At no time was the line of pickets forced back, and the repulse was so
decided that the enemy did not venture to renew it.
The naval vessels in the river kept up a continual lire over the heads
of our men, and as their practice was excellent it must have occasioned
much loss to the enemy's reserves.
We need have no occasion to doubt the reliability of our troops if
they all behave as well under fire as did those engaged in this affair.
Colonel Guss, of the Ninety-seventh Pennsylvania Eegiment, in im
mediate command of the pickets, and the officers and men of his regi
ment are entitled to special mention, as are the officers and men ol two
companies of the Forty-seventh New York and the two companies ot
the Forty-fifth Pennsylvania actually engaged, and 1 need not say that
the artillery sustained the well-earned reputation it enjoys.
Captain Hamilton, chief of artillery, did excellent service wit
infantry after his artillery was posted, and received a ball, wine
pily occasioned only a slight contusion. From the vigor and pen
ence of the enemy's attack I thought a general engagement
and had the forces disposed accordingly, but his attack i
all he attempted.
* See Foster to Benham of that date in "Correspondence, etc.," post.
t Nominal list omitted.
36 COASTS OF s. a, GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVL
Actiiur Bri-adier-General Williams took the command of the forces
cw<f after the picket were strengthened by the artillery arid its
Tain, very respectfully, your obedient s^™1^^^
Brigadier- General, Commanding.
Capt. A. B. ELY,
Asst. Adjt. Gen., Hdqrs. Northern Dirt.,
Dept. of the South, Steamer Delaware.
No. 2.
Reports of Col. John L. Chatfield, Sixth Connecticut Infantry, command
ing First Brigade, First Division.
HDQRS. FIRST BRIG., FIRST Div., U. S. FORCES,
James Island, S. C., June 11, 1862.
CAPTAIN: I have the honor to report, for the information of the
general commanding, that yesterday afternoon six companies of the
Forty seventh New York Regiment, of my brigade, stationed as picket
«: -i laid through the woods in front of the left of our lines, were attacked
1>\ a superior force of the enemy in front and upon the left flank and
\u-re compelled to retire, the outposts being driven in, which they did
without loss. In a few minutes afterward the Ninety-seventh Pennsyl
vania Regiment, together with two companies of the Forty-seventh New
York, posted as pickets on the edge of the woods directly in front, were
attacked, and a sharp engagement followed, lasting some minutes, the
enemy being kept in check until the arrival upon the ground of the
artillery.
I would make especial mention of Colonel Guss, of the Ninety-seventh
Pennsylvania Regiment, and the officers and men of his command, com
mending them for the admirable conduct and coolness they displayed
throughout the entire engagement until the enemy were repulsed.
I have to report the following casualties in the Ninety-seventh Penn
sylvania Regiment: Three men killed and 7 wounded (4 slightly). Forty-
seventh New York Regiment : Six men wounded.
No official report of the engagement has as yet been received from
the commanders of either of the above-named regiments except with
regard to killed and wounded.
I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
JOHN L. CHATFIELD,
Col, Sixth Regiment Connecticut Vols., Comdg. First Brigade.
EDISTO ISLAND, S. C., July 12, 1862.
GENERAL : I have the honor to transmit the following report :
Since the expedition to James Island my regiment has been in good
condition. We were ordered from here on the night of June 1, taking
three days' rations and nothing but blankets, leaving all camp equipage
behind. We crossed over to Seabrook Island, marching the next day
o a point opposite John's Island, where we bivouacked until 2 o'clock
on the morning of the 5th, when we marched across John's Island in
the midst of a very heavy rain-storm, with the mud knee-deep, reach
ing Legareville, on the Stouo, a distance of 15 miles, at 2 p. in, I
CHAP, XXV1.1 SKIftMlStt ON JAMES ISLAND, S. C, 37
__ Regimi
On the 8th my command Was divided into two brigades, there beinff
assigned to rrie the Sixth Connecticut, Forty-seventh tfew York anil
Ninety seventh Pennsylvania Regiments, the command of which l' con
tinued to hold until our return here, when the expedition was broken up
On the evening of the 8th and morning of the 9th we preceded up
the Stono to Grimball's plantation, on James Island, about 4£ miles
from Charleston, where we landed in the face of a severe fire from the
enemy. Our division made the left flank of the position, while General
Stevens' division occupied the ground 2 or 3 miles to oar right and cov
ering the position opposite Legareville, on John's Island.
Early on the evening of the 10th the enemy attacked us in front, and
were met by the Ninety-seventh Pennsylvania Regiment and two com
panies of the Forty-seventh New York Regiment, of my brigade, who
kept them gallantly in check until the arrival upon the ground of a
portion of Hamilton's battery, supported by four companies of the Sixth
Connecticut, soon after which the enemy retired, leaving 17 dead and
wounded upon the field.
Things remained quiet until our attack on the enemy's works on the
morning of the 14th, when only two companies of the Sixth Connecticut
were in the field, the balance of the regiment being on picket.
It is needless to give you a description of the battle, though too
much cannot be said in praise of the conduct of all the troops engaged,
who fought so bravely while laboring under such fearful disadvantages.
We remained on the island until July 7, when we evacuated it en
tirely, to await re-enforcements and a more favorable opportunity.
There are four regiments stationed here — the Sixth and Seventh
Connecticut and the Fifty-fifth and Ninety-seventh Pennsylvania— all
under the command of General Wright. ' This island is probably as
favorable a location as we could obtain for preserving the health of the
men, and I presume we will remain here in summer quarters.
I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
JOHN L. CHATFIELD,
Colonel, Commanding Sixth Regiment Connecticut Volunteers.
J. D, WILLIAMS,
Adjutant- General State of Connecticut.
No. 3.
Report of Capt. Francis M. Hills, Forty-fifth Pennsylvania Infantry.
DEAR SIR : Having command of the two companies (H and I) of the
Forty-fifth Regiment Pennsylvania Volunteers engaged m the skirmit
of the 10th instant, I submit you the following report :
My command was stationed along the inner edge of the \yoods, sup
ported on the right by a company of the Forty-seventh Regiment .
York Volunteers. At about 4.30 o'clock the enemy made his app
ance, driving in our outside picket and advancing to ward my com i.
The enemv in his advance kept up a continual fire, which was rapi dl>
and furiously responded to by our men. He was compelled i m .
but again rallying advanced within 10 yards of us, when we po 11 u
deadly and destructive fire among them, causing the utmost conftibi.
' COASTS OF 3. C., 0 \., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. tC.uv. KXVt
,aia oblizin" them to fall bact. This proved the final repulse, so
f^S attempt was made to force us to yield our pos.tion.
T ..',,,li v in mv command was 1 mortally wounded.
I r." in terms of praise too high concerning
'e
the valor and
You,,, respectfully, FKANCIS M. HILLS,
Captain Company I,tf>th Regt. Pa. Vols., Comdg. Detachment.
Col. THOMAS WELSH,
Commanding Second Brigade, First
JUNE 12, 1862.— Reconnaissance on Hutchinson's Island, S. C.
<>f Maj. R. J. Jeffords, Sixth Battalion South Carolina Cavalry.
HDQKS. SIXTH BATTALION S. 0. VOL. CAVALRY,
Chisholmville, June 14, 1862.
LII;UTENANT : I beg to report that on the night of the 12th instant
{ advanced iu three boats with 105 men, being detachments from Cap
tains Mulligan's, Smith's, and Davis' companies, against the north
end of Hutchinson Island. From drums heard, I was confident the
enemy were there. I approached the settlement and deployed as skir
mishers. Before the proper positions assigned had been obtained the
:o watchman gave alarm, and a general rush was made to pass the
skirmishers, when, after proper halting and warning, entirely disre
garded, I ordered men to fire before I discovered they were negroes.
Some 10 were killed and 10 or 15 wounded. Satisfying myself they
were negroes, which, from high brush, corn waist-high, and the dark-
w <>f night, was very difficult, I ordered the firing ceased. I closed
np, and found some 125 negroes there, with various kinds of provis
ions — say corn, bacon, beef, &c. — doubtless left them by the enemy
not being able to procure any transportation. I ordered fire to be ap
plied to the houses, which before I left had destroyed about every
tiling. A few muskets found were destroyed. The director or overseer,
with his wife (the latter teaching the negroes), had left for Beaufort
the day before. The enemy, some 200 in number, had left the island
on Sunday previous. As gunboats were just below, and three of them
moving up, and my retreat could have been cut off, I left the island so
soon as all provisions, &c., were well destroyed. Three gunboats now
lie between Chapman's Fort and Hutchinson Island, but seem to have
110 disposition to move up to the main-land. They were engaged some
little time yesterday in shelling the island. I noticed planted some 250
acres of corn, 25 acres of potatoes, and 10 acres of peanuts, and was
t<>ld cotton was planted in quantity higher up on the island. The fine
condition of the planted crops indicates conclusively the direction of
the negroes by some white person or persons. I shall make another
move in a different direction in a day or two.
I have the honor to be, respectfully, your obedient servant,
E. J. JEFFORDS,
Major Sixth Battalion S. C. Volunteer Cavalry, Comdg.
Lieut. E. H. BARNWELL,
A. A. A. G., Third Military District, McPhersonville.
CHAP. XXVI.] AFFAIR AT WHITE HOUSE, S. C. 39
JUNE 13, 1862.— Affair at White House, near Hilton Head, S. C.
» REPORTS.
No. 1.— Lieut. Col. James A. Beaver, Forty fifth Pennsylvania Infantry.
•No. 2.— Maj. Christopher Blamling, Third Rhode Island Artillery.
No. 1.
Report of Lieut. Col. James A. Beaver, Forty -fifth Pennsylvania Infant ni.
HDQBS. OUTPOSTS, Graham's, 8. C., June 14, 180L'.
COLONEL: I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your com
munication of yesterday and to report the success of the expedition.
In consequence of the time of the tides we were unable to commence
operations until late in the evening. The gun was placed in position
shortly before 6 p. in. and we immediately opened lire upon the house,
throwing shells into it, all around it, and very considerably beyond.
The firing was very fine, and but for the fact that the fuses were" alto
gether unreliable, and that from some defect in the gun some of the
shells were thrown " end over end," and thus fell short of the imirk,
every shot would have taken the effect desired. After shelling the
premises for more than an hour I embarked with about ll^O men in
boats ; effected a landing at the White House without opposition. The
house is built upon an island which is connected with the main-land
by two causeways. Pickets were stationed at these causeways and a
search instituted for boats. But one good boat was found, which was
brought off. Three or four of no particular value were destroyed, and
one large flat was found with a board off the bottom and the ends
broken out.
After remaining about an hour and a half — fearing that the tide
would leave us — the buildings were firevd, men embarked, pickets drawn
in, and all safely returned.
Major Blanding, of the Third lihode Island Artillery, had the charge
and oversight of the tiring and had command at Buckingham Ferry
during my absence on the opposite shore. To his good judgment and
soldierly qualifications I desire to bear testimony.
Officers and men behaved with remarkable coolness and circumspec
tion, showing that dependence may be placed in them in a time or
actual danger and emergency.
I have the honor to be, colonel, very respectfully, your most obedient
*ervant' JAMES A. BEAVER,
Lieut. Col. Forty-fifth Pennsylvania Volunteers, Comdg.
Col. W. W. BROWN,
Commanding Post, Hilton Head, S. C.
No. 2.
Report ofMaj. Christopher Wanting, Third Rhode Island Artillery.
INTBKNCHMENTS, Hilton Head, 8. C., June 10, 1862.
GOVEUNOR-DEAH SIB: I
-affair occurred here a few days since which, though of
40 COASTS OF S. C., GA,, ATO MID, ATO EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXvt
much importance, yet in its results quite so. After the departure of
the Charleston expedition our force within the intrenchments of all
arms did not exceed 600 effective men. Colonel Brown, in command
of the post, felt quite anxious for the safety of the garrison and the
immense amount of stores here, and I, as commander of the Third here
and all the iutrenchments, felt no less so ; therefore I have been re
quired by the colonel commanding to visit all the outposts on this
island once in two or three days. Last week on one of these recon
naissances I learned the enemy had been quite active on the main land
at the White House, so called. The captain commanding the outpost
furnished me a boat and 8 oarsmen for the purpose of visiting Pinckney
Island, the nearest point to said house, where we had a small picket
distant from the house about half a mile. On landing I discovered
the enemy had increased their force there ; had also collected a large
number of boats, sufficient to cross 600 or 700 at one time; also estab
lished new pickets, all within two days; that they were constantly
firing on our men and boats from the upper windows of the house
which, being three-story, gave them a decided advantage.
On my return to camp I recommended the destruction of the boats
and house by placing two 12-pounder howitzers on board of a steamer
and shelling the place. But no steamer could be had, as the Charles
ton expedition had taken everything. I then proposed to the colonel
to take a siege gun to the nearest point (which is Buckingham Ferry
distant 1£ miles) and shell them from there, under cover of which fire
Linitcnant-Colonel Beaver, of the Forty-fifth Pennsylvania, who com
mands the outposts, could cross and destroy the boats. Colonel Beaver
very heartily entered into the arrangement. So the next morning I
took a 30-pounder Parrott gun, drawn by 14 horses, 2 wagons for am
munition, forage, and plank to cross poor bridges, and a detachment
corporais' and 22 privates> anti
of ho aVh« 8C6?e °f °Perations to° wly to commence, on account
ntil V™ n T n \na^6d my gun and waS°ns f™ni the enemy
o.30 p. m when Colonel Beaver told me he was ready I then
STS^J™ thi^8he1/ W thr°Ugh the house (distent, as I
^T t V? i ari S,}' and the fourth and the fifth> havi"g got the
exact, I shelled the woods and the road to Bluffton and is thl
Sira-aS ssnsfas
CHAP, XXVI.] ENGAGEMENT AT SECESSIONVILLE, 8. C. 41
I regret that I am unable to inclose Lieutenant-Colonel Beaver's
report, as it has gone to headquarters. When it returns I will forward
a copy.
-The Parrott gun is a beautiful arm, but the projectile is faulty and
not to be depended upon. About one shot in four would turn end over
end. I endeavored to remedy it, and did in a measure by greasing
them and packing the base with paper. The extreme range of the
piece is about 4 miles, and very accurate when the projectile does not
turn. I should have mentioned that after Colonel Beaver embarked I
opened fire again and continued it until he had crossed.
I have the honor to be, Governor, your obedient servant,
C. BLAND1NG,
Major, Comdg. Third It. I. Artillery, Hilton Head, 8. C.
His Excellency Gov. WILLIAM SPRAGUE, Providence, R: I.
JUNE 15, 1862,— Naval descent upon Saint Mark's, Fla.
Eeport of Brig. Gen. Joseph Finegan, C. 8. Army, commanding Depart
ment of Middle and East Florida.
TALLAHASSEE, FLA., June 17, 1862.
I have just returned from Saint Mark's. The enemy shelled the light
house for several hours; sent fire-boats on shore and burned the wood
work of the light-house and the keeper's house adjoining, and burned
all the buildings on the beach. I had a small picket guard at the light
house. No person hurt.
The Seventh Regiment will proceed at once to Chattanooga.
JOS. FINEGAN,
Brigadier- General, Commanding.
General S. COOPER, Richmond, Va.
JUNE 16, 1862.— Engagement at Secessionville, James Island, S. C.
REPORTS, KTC.
No. 1.— Maj. Gen. David Hunter, U. S. Army, commanding Department of the South.
No. 2.— Return of Casualties in the Union forces.
No. 3. -Brig. Gen. Henry W. Benham, U. S. Army, commanding Northern District,
Department of the South.
No. 4.— Brig. Gen. Horatio G. Wright, U. S. Army, commanding First Division.
No. 5.— Col. John L. Chatfield, Sixth Connecticut InAintry, commanding First
Brigade, First Division.
No. 6.-— Col. Henry R. Guss, Ninety-seventh Pennsylvania Infantry.
No. 7.— Col. Thomas Welsh, Forty-fifth Pennsylvania Infantry, commanding Seco
Brigade, First Division.
No., S.— Brig. Gen. Isaac I. Stevens, U. S. Army, commanding Second Divisi
No. 9. -Col. William M. Fc-ntou, Eighth Michigan Infantry, commanding ]
Brigade, Second Division.
No. 10.— Lieut. Col. Joseph R. Hawley, Seventh Connecticut Infantry.
No. ll.-Lieut. Col. MaoLelland Moore, Twentyeighth Massachusetts Infantry.
COAST. OP S. C, 0*., AKD «t>. «» MM «.». ,~- «*«•
,nd Brigade, Second Division
' '
Ko 1- -1 i-t l.' John H. Jackson, Third New Hampshire Infantry.
Ho! l9.-C*pt. Alfred F. Sears, First New York Engineers
Ho! »-€mpt Alfred P. Rockwell, First Connecticut Battery
Ha 'M -M -, Kdwin Metcalf, Third Rhode Island Heavy Artillery.
Ho, •'" -Cftpt Lnciiw M. Sargent, jr., First Massachusetts Cavalry.
N,,: .;.",. M;IJ. G,n. John C. Pemberton, C. S. Army, commanding Department of Soutfe
Carolina and Georgia.
Ho -i -KYturii of Casualties in the Confederate forces.
Sfefer-Mf. Gen. Nathan G. Evans, C. S. Army, commanding Second Military
District.
^,, .>,* _col T. G. Lamar, First South Carolina Artillery.
Maj. David Ramsay, First South Carolina (Charleston) Battalion.
v, •'- —Col S. D. Goodlett, Twenty-second South Carolina Infantry.
•.•.i. -Col. Johnson Hagood, First South Carolina Infantry, commanding advanced!
forces.
Ho, :•"•- -U«-nt. Col. J. McEnery, Fourth Louisiana Battalion.
Nn :;i._(',,l. C. H. Stevens, Twenty-fourth South Carolina Infantry.
;,'. -Lieut. Col. Charles H. Simonton, Twenty-dfth South Carolina Infantry..
No. :;:;.— Li.-ut. R. A. Blum, Twenty-fifth South Carolina Infantry.
.;!.— Capt. J. E. Adger, Twenty-fifth South Carolina Infantry.
No. 1.
Imports of Maj. Gen. David Hunter, U. 8. Army, commanding Depart
ment of the South.
HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE SOUTH,
Hilton Head, Port Royal, S. C., June 23, 1802.
SIR: On the 13th instant I had the honor of informing you that we
had occupied the southwestern portion of James Island, on the Stono
1 liver, within 5 or 6 miles of Charleston, intending to make a rush for
tin- reduction of that city as soon as re-enforcements should arrive.
AN we failed in being able to make a coup de main on Charleston in
cmisrijiieiice of our transportation not having been returned to us from
thf North, the enemy had time to throw strong re-enforcements on
-laiiics Island, rendering an advance witb our existing force extremely
lia/anlous. 1 therefore determined to make no forward movement,
luiving .satisfied myself by reconnaissances of the increase of the enemy's
stivngtli ; and on leaving the Stono to return to this point, where mat
ters atVrrting the safety of the command in other portions of the depart
ment called for my presence, I gave positive orders to General Benliam
that ii<> advance should be made until further explicit orders had been.
rece \« -d from these headquarters.* General Benharn disobeyed these
positive orders and clear instructions, and the result, I deeply regret to<
.Nay. has been a disastrous repulse, only redeemed by the brilliant con-
* See Inclosure No. 3 to Hunter's report of June 27, p. 46; see also pp. 979-1015.
CHAP. XXVI.] ENGAGEMENT AT SECESSIONVILLE, 8. C. 43
duct of the troops while engaged in the assault aud their steadings
and patient courage when compelled to retire.
I inclose herewith a copy of General Beuham's report of his assault
upon the enemy's fortifications, as also of my orders forbidding that
any such movement should be made. You will see that General Ben-
ham endeavors to evade the responsibility of having violated his in
structions by terming his attack upon the enemy's works a " reconnais
sance in force," but such a plea is too puerile to deserve consideration.
In view of these circumstances and the serious consequences which
have arisen from his disobedience I have felt it my duty fo arrest Gen
eral Benham and order him North by the steamer conveying this let
ter. This step has cost me much regret, as previous to this unhappy
act of rashness he has been industrious, energetic, and wholly devoted
to his duties.
We still hold our former position, and shall continue to hold it so
long as any hope of being enabled to make it useful by the receipt of
re-enforcements shall remain. It is a most valuable point ffappui for
operations against Charleston, and should not lightly be abandoned.
From all the evidence reaching me, however, I am satisfied that
Charleston has been heavily re-enforced of late, possibly by some bri
gades from the Array of Corinth; and the injudicious attack of Gen
eral Benham will doubtless contribute, both by its calling attention to
the place and by the eclat of the Confederate success there, to still
further swell the number of its defenders.
I have the honor to be, sir, very respectfully, your most obedient
servant,
D. HUNTER,
Major- General, Commanding.
Hon. E. M. STANTON,
Secretary of War, Washington.
HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE SOUTH,
Hilton Head, Port Royal, S. C., June 27, 1862.
SIR : I have the honor to transmit herewith letters of Brig. Gen. II.
G. Wright and Brig. Gen. I. I. Stevens, with explanatory copies of the
letter of Brigadier-General Benham, to which they refer, and my letter
of instructions to Brigadier-General Benham, dated June 10 ; also copy
of General Benham's report of the action of the 16th instant on James
Island.
You will see from the letters of General Wright and General 8
that, in a council of war held on the evening previous to the attack,
these officers, together with Colonel Williams, also commanding
gade. remonstrated strongly and emphatically with General Benin::::.
and warned him that he was about to fight a battle in vio
If consistent with the interests of the service, in your judgment, the
publication, by transmission to Congress or otherwise, o
spondence would greatly aid in setting this department rig
'Thave the honor also to transmit herewith copy of my letter of in
structions to Brig. Gen. H. G. Wright, directing
. . . .
forces from James Island to some more healthy location.
reasons making this course advisable are fully set forth in t
44 COASTS OF 8. C., OA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP.
and the increasing sick list from the command is another argument not
''?;;;":' tlHklLor to be,sir,very respectfully, your most obedient
servant, D HUNTER,
Major- General, Commanding.
Hon. E. M. STANTON,
Secretary of War, Washington, D. C.
[Inclosnre No. 1.]
HEADQUARTERS U. S. FORCES,
James Island, S. C., June 22, 1862.
Mai. CHARLES G. HALPINE,
A. A. 0., Hdqrs. Dept. of the South, Hilton Head, b. C. :
MAJOR : I have the honor to inclose a communication from Brig. Gen.
1. 1. Stevens in reference to General Benham's letter of the 20th instant
regarding our attack upon Secessionville.
I fully indorse all that is said by General Stevens in his letter, and
repudiate as emphatically as he has done for himself any attempt to use
my name as favoring the operations of the 16th instant.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
H. G. WRIGHT,
Brigadier- General, Commanding.
[Sub-inclosnr*.]
HDQRS. IST Div., NORTH. DIST., DEPT. OF THE SOUTH,
Smith's Island, S. C., June 22, 1862.
Capt. E. W. SMITH,
A. A. A. 0., Dept. of the South, Hilton Head, S. C.:
CAPTAIN : I have received a copy of General Benham's communica
tion of the 20th instant in regard to the attack on Secessionville. I
repudiate the use he attempts to make of my name. On the evening
before the battle, at a conference invited by him, and at which were
present General Wright, Colonel Williams, and myself, General Ben-
ham was most distinctly warned that under his orders we were going
out to fight a battle. General Wright made the statement to General
Benham, and it was most positively and unequivocally concurred in by
both Colonel Williams and myself. I was utterly opposed to the attack
on Secessionville on the morning of the 16th, and so expressed myself
unequivocally in conference. I also understood unequivocally that
General Wright and Colonel Williams were opposed to it. Mueh more
might be said on this subject, but I forbear.
I am, sir, very respectfully, your most obedient,
ISAAC I. STEVENS,
Brigadier- General, Commanding.
[Inclosure No. 2.]
HILTON HEAD, S. C., June 20, 1862.
Capt. E. W. SMITH,
Acting Assistant Adjutant- General, Dept. of the South :
Sn: : AN you did not mention the cause of my arrest last evening
while notifying me thereof, yet, as I understood from my previous con-
CHAP. XXVI.] ENGAGEMENT AT SECESSIONVILLE, S. C. 45
versatioi; with General Hunter that it would be on the ground that I
had disobeyed his orders against making an advance toward For
Johnson or Charleston, I desire to lay before him one or two consi I
erations in relation to this matter which I think have an important
bearing on the case, but which were not, I believe, brought to hii noUco
m the conversation I had with him on the subject last evenin- i ml
wViilA rli.Gr»lii.'iiMiTi or QO if- 10 4~niin .,,,,1 », . j._j i » .*J •MM
,., ,. , . . .
while disclaiming as it is true and my duty to myself to do, most
fully and completely any other intention than that of can-vine out his
orders to the strictest letter, as it has always been my wish and my
pleasure to do, I cannot avoid stating- that it is as strongly impressed
on my mind as possible that after the receipt of the written orders as
to the disposition of the troops and the non-advance upon Charleston'
upon the evening prior to his leaving I showed him the map (as I have
it here now with a line upon it) drawn from the church (where Colonel
Morrow's skirmish was) "to the north of the isthmus, where the Seces-
sionville tower and fort are," stating that as that fort shelled our
upper camp I considered it indispensable that we should have and
hold those points for the security of our camps and even for the occu
pation of the Stono. and that I understood him distinctly as assenting
J • , £* i A • T-» _ . ^
front of General Stevens' advanced position was projected and being
built to attack the fort at Secessionville before General Hunter left,
and this was known to and as I understood approved of by him, and I
could not but suppose that if I was authorized to constructsuch a work
to disable or destroy a fort whose fire covered our camps and failed in
so destroying it (a work which I feared would be a good foundation for
driving us from the Stono entirely) I should be fully authorized in
taking it if possible by a direct attack; or, in other words, while only
holding our present camps and without an advance toward Charleston
I was authorized and expected, if it were possible, to keep the front of
our camps clear of the works of the enemy far beyond cannon range,
and beyond that range even on the day of the action 1 would not allow
our troops to pass as was proposed by going farther to our left, because
my object was simply to make secure the present position of our camps,
which I considered it my duty to protect against the fire of the enemy.
The orders of General Hunter I may say were made known to General
Stevens and General Wright, and neither of them ever intimated or
appeared to think that the reconnaissance upon the fort upon the 16th
would be contrary to those orders — orders which I most heartily ap
proved and was most anxious to carry out.
I may say in addition that the demonstration was made only after
the fullest reasons for being assured of success and with the greatest
apparent necessity for it.
The deserters who arrived from Secessionville gave information sep
arately, confirmed by prisoners taken on the day of the action and in
part by our own officers who mounted the parapet, that the lort was
only a common earthwork, without a stockade, and with abatis only m
part ; that it mounted only four to six guns, and that six or se-en more,
with their carriages, were at hand ready for mounting, and
garrison was not more than two battalions there and m access
Add to this the active operations which we could see and hear going
. /• _.i.i • , .,,1 »,~,,<Vir»f Inrr fl»a wnrlr fhirin<T the tWO (IJlVS Ol
46 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVL
abatis soon completed, it appeared indispensable to make the effort at
oner to take it before it should be brought to its greatest strength, and
Himmh I .lid not doubt that 2,000 men would have amply sufficed, the
lar-c force was brought out that no doubt of success might exist.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
Brigadier- General.
[Inoloaure No. 3.]
HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE SOUTH,
On board U. S. Transport Delaware, Stono River, 8. C., June 10, 1862.
Brig. Gen. H. W. BENHAM,
Comdg. Northern District, Department of the South :
SIR: In leaving the Stono Kiver to return to Hilton Head I desire,
in any arrangements that you may make for the disposition of your
forces now in this vicinity, you will make no attempt to advance on
Charleston or to attack Fort Johnson until largely re-enforced or until
you receive specific instructions from these headquarters to that effect.
You will however provide for a secure intrenched encampment, where
your front can be covered by the tire of our gunboats from the Stono
on the left and the creek from Folly River on the right. After making
all proper arrangements for the security of the camp, and the necessary
provision for quartermaster's, commissary, and medical stores, if in
your judgment you can safely leave the position you will return to your
usual headquarters at Hilton Head, reporting to me verbally the state
of a Hairs here; or, if delayed, reporting in writing by each boat that
may leave here previously. You will be especially careful to have the
free communication established and kept up by the repairs of the cause
way between the old battery and Cole's Island.
Very respectfully, your most obedient servant,
D. HUNTER,
Major- Genera I, Comm anding.
[Inclosuro No. 4.]
HEADQUARTERS U. S. FORCES,
James Island, S. C., June 25, 1862.
Col. D. LEASURE,
Commanding Second Brigade, First Division :
COLONEL : Iu your report * to General Stevens of the operations ot
your brigade on the morning of the 16th instant, in the attack upon the
enemy's works at Secessionville, I find the following : t
AM. -i- I had formed my command behind the hedge, ready to move again to the at-
... I rode down to the troops lying back half amile in reserve behind a hedge, and
God 8 sake, to come up to the front and support me in a charge, and
••ry ,.,,,,lly told that those, troops did not belong to my division and could not
IH-V ••ifhfriuy orders or General Stevens'. Of course this was a very distant support,
rial StoreSl y t0 tak° the resP°nsibilifcy of actl"S without orders of Gen-
I desire to know to what troops you refer as lying half a mile behind
what officer you applied for assistance, and also whether you
o your division commander ; to Acting Brigadier- General Will-
•gee Report No. 13. tNot found in No. 13.
CHAP. XXVI.] ENGAGEMENT AT SECESSIONVILLE, S. C. 47
iams, who was acting with him, ami who was seldom 150 yards behind
the hedge first referred to ; to myself, when near that hedge, where the
One hundredth Pennsylvania Regiment was reformed, or to General
Beuhain, who commanded the whole. You will understand, colonel,
that troops on a field cannot be moved without proper orders, and that
any appeal of yours, however correct, must have been useless unless
made to some authority competent to give the order; hence the state
ment above quoted does great injustice to all the troops not of your
immediate brigade, and requires that you should specify in the most
distinct manner the officer in authority to whom you made the appeal
to which you refer. An early reply is desired, in order that the reports
of the battle may be submitted without unnecessary delay. There were
no troops, that t am aware of, as far as a quarter of a mile in rear of
the hedge behind which you reformed your command.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
-li. (jr. W xviJ-Vjli -L,
Brigadier- General, Commanding.
[Inclosure No. 5.]
HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE SOUTH,
Hilton Head, Port Royal, 8. C., June 27, 18G2.
Brig. Gen. H. G. WRIGHT,
Commanding U. S. Forces on James Island, 8. 0. :
GENERAL: Hearing from Washington that there is no probability
of our receiving re-enforcements, and it being all-important to provide
for the health of the command in the sickly season approaching, I
determined to abandon James Island, in order that the troops may be
pS^rg in so far as practicable in this climate, they ma>^« oat
of the way of malarious influences, and where the picket duty will
insructionscontained in my letter of the 191* -^^^ ^ .
awwcsSsKffi
command to the right bank of £eJ^MK3ti£ schooners, and
Tttlitt*SS -tUer «M not
to be, general, very respectfully, your o*
servant, D. HUNTER,
Major- General, Commanding.
48 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVI
HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE SOUTH,
Hilton Head, Port Royal, 8. C., July 10, 1862.
EIou. E. M. STANTON,
Secretary of War, Washington :
SIP- 1 havMhr honor of transmitting to you herewith duplicate of
a inter addressed to me by Brig. Gen. Isaac I. Stevens, giving par-
tinilais of the protest made by the council of war against General Ben-
ham's action in ordering the attack upon the enemy's fortifications on
James Island.
You will see from it, in a full detail of the conversation which trans
pired, that all three division commanders— Generals Wright and Stevens
and Colonel Williams— agreed with me in the opinion which had led me
to issuing the order that no such attack should be made, and that all
represented the movement as one almost impossible of accomplishment.
"General Benham, however," adds General Stevens, u overruled all our
objections, and peremptorily ordered the attack to be made."
1 have the honor to be, very respectfully, your most obedient servant,
I). HUNTER,
Major- General, Commanding.
[Inclosure.]
HEADQUARTERS STEVENS' DIVISION,
Hilton Head, 8. C., July 8, 1862.
SIR: I desire to state briefly a few facts in relation to the operations
of my division at the battle of Secessionville, fought on the 16th of
June, in relation to which there is some strange misapprehension ; to
present some of my own views in relation to that affair, and some
particulars of the conference held by General Benham with his general
officers on the evening previous to the battle.
1. That conference was held with Generals Wright and Williams and
myself. All were unmistakably opposed to the attempt, in the then
condition of the enemy's works, to take them by a coup de main, and so
unequivocally and unmistakably expressed themselves. When General
Wright was called on for his opinion he answered that he would make
his feply in the shape of certain interrogatories to me, to which he de
sired answers.
First interrogatory. Have you impaired the strength of the enemy's
works at Secessionville by the firing of your battery?
General Stevens' answer. Not in the least. I have driven the enemy
from his guns by my fire and I can do it again, but as soon as the fire
erases he returns. I have not dismounted a gun, and we shall find him
in the morning as strong as ever.
Second interrogatory. Do you know of any instance where volunteer
troops have successfully stormed works as strong as those which defend
the approach to Secessionville ?
General Stevens' answer. 1 know of no such instance.
Third interrogatory. Have you any reason to believe that the result
in the present case will be different in its character from what it has
invariably been heretofore t
General Stevens' answer. I have no reason to expect a different result.
. is simply a bare possibility to take the work.
In this Generals Wright, Williams, and myself concurred.
then proceeded to state, with all possible emphasis, my objections
to his morning attack. I urged that it should be deferred to a much
later period m the dayj that we should Ijrst sha^e tiie morale of the
CIIAI-. XXVI.] ENGAGEMENT AT SECESSIONVILLE, S. C. 49
garrison, and endeavor to weaken its defenses by a continuous fire of
the battery and of the gunboats; that in the mean time we should care
fully survey the ground and prepare our troops, and make the att-ick
when the battery and the boats had had the desired eilect, I closed
by saying that under such circumstances I could do more with 2000
men than I could with 3,000 men in the way he proposed. General
Wright, moreover, warned General Benham that his orders were in fact
orders to fight a battle. In this General Williams and myself in express
terms concurred. General Benham, however, overruled all our objec
tions, and peremptorily ordered the attack to be made. I assured him,
as did the other gentlemen, that he should rely upon my promptitude
and activity in obeying his orders, but I considered myself as obeying
orders to which I had expressed the strongest possible objections, and
I therefore determined there should not be the least want of energy or
promptitude on my part.
2. It has been charged that I was behind time. This is not true. I
was exceedingly prompt and up to time. The orders were to move at
4 o'clock. My division was formed at 2 o'clock, and was at the outer
pickets before 3.30 o'clock. It was a very dark and cloudy morning.
I moved at 4 o'clock. It was so dark that one man could not -follow
another except at very short intervals. It was much darker than on
usual starlight nights. My men were at the enemy's works about 4.;»0
o'clock, and the conflict of twenty-five minutes, so dreadful in its casu
alties, was over, and the men returned at 5 o'clock. Porter's section of
Kock well's battery advanced to the hedge within 500 yards of the
enemy's \vorks with the troops of Fen ton's brigade; tired above 100
shots from his two guns; was joined in the midst of his fire by one
piece of Seward's section (a rifled gun), which fired 20 shots, and the
three guns were withdrawn to the second hedge and actually there
reopened fire at 5 o'clock. The watch was actually consulted by one
of llockwell's sergeants at the very moment, and it was exactly 5
o'clock.
In my official report I have stated that the sharp conflict was from
5 to 5.30. I ani perfectly satisfied that it occurred between 4.30 and 5.
The men moved very rapidly from the pickets to the work — much of
the time at the double-quick, and they moved that distance in about
half an hour.
3. It has been stated that my regiments were not- within supporting
distance of each other. This is a great mistake. They I
other closely. There was not a pause in the movement,
successively under fire without hesitation. They entered necessarily
in the following order: Eighth Michigan, Seventh Connecticut, 1 weir
eighth Massachusetts, Seventy-ninth (Highlanders)
Pennsylvania, and Forty-sixth tfew York. They movt
flank on the road to avoid ditches and hedges and the roi
furrows, and they necessarily marched one behind the other. As
came into the field before the work they pushed forward by r
into line of battle and entered the close fire.
I have mentioned how Rockwell's battery pushed up. Quite 8
•allied
ana aoatis on euuer siue. JLUO oovcu^-j Tu\n «f;n,it
fire the fourth regiment. They passed by the Seventh
4 R K — VOL XIV
50 COASTS OF 8. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CIIAI-. XXVI.
the Twenty-eighth Massachusetts, and actually supported at the para
pet, as every oue admits, the Eighth Michigan. They passed those
iv-iments, too, within less than 200 yards of the enemy's work.
The Highlanders have been in many battles and skirmishes, are very
expert in drill, and are indeed old soldiers. If they were in supporting
distance certainly the Seventh Connecticut and the Twenty-eighth
Massachusetts were, but the terrible fire of grape, canister, and mus
ketry from the front, and the rifle-fire of sharpshooters from the flanks,
poured upon [he several regiments as they were passing on in line to
tin- very neck of land on which the enemy's work is situated, and which
is stated by them to be only 30 yards wide. Large portions of each
regiment were thus thrown on the marsh on either hand and were
unable to go forward. The succeeding regiments in pushing forward
became intermingled with them, and the only alternative was to retire
the regiments to reform them.
The very thing happened which is to be feared in such an attempt.
When it is recollected that in twenty five minutes every one of my regi
ments passed the advanced hedge, pushed clear up or nearly clear up
to the ditch, made the best fight they could, and were withdrawn by
my positive orders to the same advanced hedge again, losing over 500
men, every regiment suffering largely and two regiments terribly, there
can be no doubt but they followed each other closely. The fault is not
in my orders or arrangements, but in having a fight there at all under
such circumstances.
4. So rapid and prompt were the operations of my division that T
was hard at work reforming my troops before Williams' advance came
in sight, and I was afterwards ready with all my battalions in line of
battle to move to the assault of the works the second time whenever
General Benham should give the order.
This I announced to General Benhain by Captain Elwell, his aide,
and by officers of my own staff. At this very juncture General Ben-
ham withdrew Williams, and, as stated in my official report, at a sub
sequent period ordered me to withdraw.
5. All the above facts I can establish by the most incontrovertible
testimony. I have entered the service with the earnest purpose of
doing my duty, and submit the above statements to show that I was
prompt and faithful to my orders on the day of the 16th.
I am, sir, very respectfully, your most obedient,
ISAAC I. STEVENS,
Brigadier- General, Commanding Division.
Maj. Gen. D. HUNTER,
Comdg. Department of the South, Hilton Head, S. G.
CHAP. XXVI.] ENGAGEMENT AT 8ECE88IONVILLE, S. C.
No. 2.
Beturn of Oasitalties
51
[Compiled from nominal lists of casualties, returns, «fcc.]
Killed.
Wounded.
Captured or
missing.
Command
05
S
|
^
ti
1
®
Remarks.
CO
1
£
'S
£
S
8)
S
1
1
1
o
I
•Sf
7th Connecticut . . .
2
7
1
68
4
82
Capt. Edwin S. Hitchcock
and Lieut. Thomas Hooton
1st Massachusetts Cav
3
killed.
alry (detachment).
28th Massachusetts
8
2
8th Michigan
2
46
10
110
i
15
67
184
Capts. Benjamin B. Church
3d New Hampshire
1st New York Engineers
1
8
1
5
88
2
2
104
Q
and Simon C. Guild killed.
Capt. Ralph Caiiton killed.
(detachment).
46th New York
1
5
8
2
5
16
62
9
34
33
110
Lieut.Ferdinand Sehrt killed.
Lieut. James Kiuucar died
79th New York
45th Pennsylvania
of wounds June 18.
97th Pennsylvania. .
2
1
3
100th Pennsylvania... .
1
8
2
31
g
10
_ . .
killed
3d Rhode Island Heavy
Artillery (detach
1
7
1
28
8
45
Lieut. Erasmus S. Bartholo
mew died of wounds Juno
ment).
17.
9
98
28
459
2
87
683
NOTE.— Of the number reported wounded, 3 officers and 40 men fell into the hands of the Confed'
erates.
No. 3.
Report of Brig. Gen. Henry W. Benham, U. 8. Army, commanding
Northern District, Department of the South.
HDQRS. NORTHERN DIST., DEPT. OF THE SOUTH,
Left bank of the Stono, GrimbalVs Plantation, June 16, 18G2.
GENERAL : You will recollect that iii our last intercourse upon the
subject, before you left the Stono Eiver, upon the llth instant, you
approved of my representations for the security of our present camps
here on James Island ; that it was indispensable that we should destroy
or capture the fort and floating battery of the enemy at Secessionville.
For this there appeared no alternative, as these batteries covered with
their fire the whole of the position and camps of General Wright on
our left and the advanced post of General Stevens on our right, and
•as these were the only or the lower positions that secured a footing
upon the main portion of James Island and a direct route on firm land
to Fort Johnson, which, when required, gave us the command of
city and harbor of Charleston.
There was, therefore, constructed within the last four or live days a
battery of two Parrott and one James gun near the point in 1
General gteyens' command, This openecl $re upou the fort
52 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAI-. XXVI.
battery at Secession ville on the 14th instant, continuing it upon the
15th, when the guns of the hulk were silenced, it having once been set
on fire by our shells. As the fort appeared uninjured, however, and it
was evident that extensive works were being constructed in the interior
for covering the men and the guns, the fort being apparently made
much stronger every day, I deemed it important that a reconnaissance
should be made in force at the earliest practicable period, with the
object, if it were successful and the fort not too strong, of capturing
and holding the same.
For this purpose I arranged last evening that a large part of the
command of General Stevens, or about 3,500 men, and four guns of
Rockwell's battery should lead the advance of that reconnaissance this
morning, starting at 4 o'clock from a position previously secured in our
front picket line, while it was to be supported on the left with large
detachments of General Wright's and Colonel Williams' command, or
about 3,100 men, with six guns of Hamilton's battery. 1 myself accom
panied the latter command, which left this place at the appointed time,
between 3 and 4 o'clock a. in.
By the reports made to me I learu that the command of General
Stevens were well placed in the positions assigned them with great
silence and secrecy between 2 and 3 a. in., and that at about the hour
appointed, 4 o'clock, they moved forward rapidly, capturing the ad-
ers), and the balauce of those regiments then rushed up to and upon
the parapet of the fort, in rear and in support of which were the Twenty-
eighth Massachusetts Regiment arid the Seventh Connecticut; but the
destructive fire from the fort and from the large masses of infantry be
hind dikes and hedges on the flanks and in rear of the fort cut down
the leading men and officers, and after the advance held the position
ose upon the fort for some fifteen or twenty, minutes the order to re-
•e and reform was given, which was done in good order, a portion of
r dead being brought off, though followed by heavy discharges of
sketry and grape, and the regiments all reformed behind a dike some
* from the fort, and the firing continued from this point, sup-
here by Rockwell's Connecticut battery, which was most admi
rably served.
nfu'nT 'bis time the left wing, under General Wright, the advance
*h ch was led by Colonel Williams, of the First Massachusetts Cav-
,, IvYr mi i Tl ltansom's Suns> were pushed rapidly and
an b lorward, and the enemy on our left flank with a battery of
('ri"K~ «'« marsh on our left and the open
' '''
OHAP. XXVI.] ENGAGEMENT AT SECESSIONVILLE, S. C. 53
camps here, I ordered the withdrawal of the troops, which was done
with the greatest regularity and in most admirable order, all of our
dead and wounded, except, perhaps, a few of those who fell upon the
parapet and in the ditch of the fort, having been previously sent to the
rear.
Throughout the whole of this affair I have great pleasure in re
porting that the gallantry and good conduct of General Wright and
Colonel Williams, directly under my eye, as also that of the several regi
ments engaged on the left wing, was most admirable; while the careful
arrangement and skillful disposition of the forces of General Stevens,
guided as they were by his own cool courage in action, supported as he
was by some of the best troops in the service, have mainly contributed
to the success of this reconnaissance and the safe and orderly return of
our forces.
The details of the action with the notices of the several officers and
men deserving special praise I shall submit as early as the reports can
be obtained i'rom the respective commanders.
The casualties to the command I regret to say are quite serious as
to number and character. From the reports so far as obtained they
are in General Stevens' command as follows : Seven officers and 40 men
killed, 14 officers and 307 men wounded, and 2 officers and about 150
men missing (more than one-half of which last number it is expected
will return to camp), the expected total loss being about 450. Of Gen
eral Wright's and Colonel Williams' commands there are reported so
far (I have not been able to get the details as yet) about 150 in all,
killed, wounded, and missing. Of these many — perhaps some 40 or
50 — were, I fear, duplicated, by the fact that many of the wounded of
General Stevens' command are in the hospital of General WTright, so
that I doubt not the entire casualties will be much within GOO as a total
for killed, wounded, and missing.*
I have the honor to remain, sir, very respectfully, your obedient
servant,
H. W. BENHAM,
Brigadier- Genera I, Commanding.
Maj. Gen. D. HUNTER,
Commanding Department of the South, Hilton Head, S. C.
No. 4.
Report of Brig. Gen. Horatio G. Wright, U. 8. Army, commanding First
Division.
HDQRS. FIRST DIVISION, NORTH. DIST., DEPT. SOUTH,
James Island, IS. C.. June 18, 1SGL.
MAJOR : I have the honor to present the following report of iny divis
ion in the action of the 16th instant:
Before proceeding to describe the part taken by the troops under
immediate command it is important, and indeed mdispensi
the plan of operations as determined upon by General Benham, 11
distinctly laid down by him, regarding the entire force lm>ng h
the field should be explained. This is essential to a compile in
standing of the part taken by and the disposition made ot
commands in the action.
* See revised statemrm, i>. f>l.
54 COASTS OF S. C., OA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVI.
According to this plan the division of General Stevens was to form
thi. assaulting column against the enemy's works at Secessionville, and,
beiog formed in the utmost silence at his outer pickets, was to move
forward at the iirst break of day upon the enemy's batteries, while the
remainder of the troops, comprising Williams' brigade and a part of
inv division, moving together from the camp at Grmiball's, were to act
as a support t<» General Stevens, protecting his left and rear from an
attaek of the enemy's forces from that direction. So important was
the dut v assigned to this covering force deemed, and so convinced was
(imei-ai lienham of the probability of an attack from that direction,
that In- ordered, in the event of the repulse of Stevens, that the covering
tr -ops should not renew the assault.
Tin- parts to be performed by the two columns were therefore well
defined and distinctly understood; that of General Stevens was to
nit and carry the works at Secessionville ; that composed of troops
of General Williams' brigade and my division was to cover the assault
and protect it from attack on the left and rear.
The organization of the left column having been left with me, I
added to the brigade of Williams the Ninety-seventh Eegiment Penn
sylvania Volunteers audone section of Hamilton's battery, audarranged
the force as follows:
Fust. Third Rhode Island, five companies ; second, Third New Hamp
shire, ten companies; third, Ninety-seventh Pennsylvania, six compa
nies; fourth, Company E, Third Artillery, one section. Acting Briga
dier (It-neral Williams' brigade.
Fifth. Sixth Connecticut, two companies; seventh, Forty-seventh
New York, eight companies. Colonel Chatfield's brigade.
Kighth. Forty-fifth Pennsylvania, six companies; ninth, First New
York Volunteer Engineers, three companies. Colonel Welsh's brigade.
Tenth. Artillery, two sections.
Eleventh. Cavalry, two squadrons.
The remaining troops were left in camp and on picket duty, from
which they could not be withdrawn without compromising the safety
of the cauip and depot. Orders were issued to call the men at 2 a.
m. and have them in line for marching at 3 a. m. All this was accorn-
iied, and at the appointed hour the column was in motion, and pro
ceeded to and formed undercover of the woods, about 1 mile in advance
of our camp, to await information of the advance of General Stevens'
column, as had been agreed upon. Prior to receiving such intelligence,
i few stray shots on our right and to our front indicated that
General Stevens' command was advancing, and without waiting further
the column was at once pushed forward.
Hy this time daylight was upon us, but as the morning was dark and
uly objects could not be clearly discovered to any considerable
Should remark here, that just after or about the time I gave
for the advance from camp I was joined by General Benham,
warned the command of the column and who retained it daring
tion, leaving mo responsible for a division only. Moving rapidly
• rout, I formed my command partly behind a hedgerow parallel
it of the enemy's works, partly a little in rear-; and Bought
i. two P,eces of artillery to open upon the enemy, and then proceeded
t» ft i front to ascertain exactly the condition of affairs there.
have stated that soon after the column was put in motion
Is, where it had been halted, a messenger came from General
that he was advancing, and before we had reached our
on a message from General Stevens asking immediate support
CHAP. XXVI.J ENGAGEMENT AT SECESSIONVILLE, S. c. 55
was answered by an order from General Benham to Acting General
Williams to report to General Stevens with his command This wai
a change in the original programme by taking from the covering column
the brigade under Williams and adding it to the assaulting column
On reaching the front I found that the command of General Stevens
was falling back; that a portion had been reformed behind the ad
vanced hedgerow ; that the Ninety-seventh Pennsylvania was behind
the same hedge on the left of General Stevens, and 'that the Third New
Hampshire and Third Rhode Island, which had been pushed well up to
our left of the enemy's works and on the left of the marsh, were hotlv
engaged and under a cross-fire from the works and from a force of the
enemy (artillery and infantry) on our left, in a low growth of bushes
which covered them from view. The performances of these regiments
and their gallant bearing under a most destructive fire will be detailed
by their immediate commander, General Williams, and I refer to them
at all only with a view to their connection with the movements of the
rest.
To silence the fire on our left just referred to and to be able to resist
more promptly any attack from that point a section of Hamilton's bat
tery was brought into the field to the left of the marsh and opened on
the enemy, and the Forty-seventh New York Regiment, of Colonel
Chatfield's brigade, was also brought forward and formed in line of bat
tle to the left in face of the low growth of bushes to which I have
alluded, a movement which was executed with the most admirable cool
ness and in perfect order. The fire of our battery soon silenced that
of the enemy, which was not resumed. The other troops of my com
mand maintained their original position through the entire engagement,
except the Volunteer Engineers, who by my direction changed front
forward to the left, to cover the approach in that direction.
Although not actually engaged with the enemy the troops of my com
mand were constantly under the fire of the enemy's artillery, which was
at times very warm, and which was borne most unflinchingly by officers
and men, who were anxious to be brought up face to face with the enemy.
The conduct of officers and men was deserving of all praise. To Captain
Hamilton, Third Artillery, chief of artillery of the left column, I desire
to express my obligations for the judicious management of the artillery,
which had much influence in subduing the fire of the enemy, and to the
various members of my staff, Col. E. W. Serrell, Volunteer Engineers,
chief engineer; Capt. C. W. Foster, assistant adjutant-general; Captain
Goodrich, assistant quartermaster; Lieut. F. A. Sawyer, acting brigade
commissary; Lieutenants Hayden a*id Hubbell, aides-de-cainp; Mr.
Darlington, volunteer aide-de-camp, and Capt. J. M. Eice, of General
Hunter's staff, but serving with me as a volunteer aide, I desire to ac
knowledge the prompt and satisfactory discharge of the various duties
assigned them.
The troops of the entire column left the field in the most perfect order,
the Forty-fifth Pennsylvania bringing up and covering the rear as fur as
our front line of pickets, where it was halted, and remained in position
till all prospect of an attack on the part of the enemy had passed away.
The withdrawal from the field of both columns was ordered by General
Benham.
Accompanying this are the reports of Colonels Chatfield and WelBfc,
commanding brigades.
Very respectfully, you obedient servant,^ ^ WRIGHT,
Brigadier- General, Commanding.
56 COASTS OF s. a, GA., AND MID AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. xxvi.
No. 5.
Rcnort of Col. John L. Cka-t field, Sixth Connecticut Infantry, command
ing First Brigade, First Division. -
HDQRS. FIRST BRIGADE, FIRST Div., U. S. FORCES,
OrimbalVs Plantation, S. C., June 16,1802.
CAPTAIN: I have the honor to report, for the information of the gen
eral commanding, that, in accordance with previous instructions from
the division headquarters, my brigade, composed of two companies of
the Sixth Connecticut Kegiment and the Forty-seventh New York Regi
ment (the remaining eight companies of the Sixth Connecticut being
kit 1.. hind on picket duty and the Ninety-seventh Pennsylvania Regi
ment being assigned to the command of General Williams), was formed
in line at 3 a. m. this day, and took up the line of "march, as assigned,
in rear of General Williams' command. I moved forward about a fourth
of a mile beyond our line of pickets, when 1 formed in line of battle, and
in that order moved forward in support of our artillery until within
about 800 yards of the enemv's position, where we lay under a galling
fire from their battery for over an hour, after which I was ordered to
move the Forty-seventh New York Regiment forward in support of Gen
eral Williams' column, which I did, accompanying it myself, forming
line of battle to the left and about 500 yards in rear of the enemy's main
work, whe$p we remained for half an hour, throwing skirmishers for
ward into the woods. We were then again ordered to the rear of our
artillery. We remained here but a few moments, when we were once
more ordered forward to the former position, which having taken and
again thrown out skirmishers we were immediately ordered to the rear
of our artillery, and soon after to retire and take up a position in front
of our line of pickets. Tins being accomplished, we were soon ordered
back to our old position in cam]) in rear of our intrench ments.
I have the honor to report that the officers and men of my command
conducted themselves with the greatest coolness.
I had occasion several times to execute different movements with the
Forty -seventh New York Regiment, and although done under a galling
fire from the enemy, all the movements were accomplished with the
greatest facility, the men acting calmly and without any excitement.
I have also the pleasure to report that there were no casualties what
ever in my command.
I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
JOHN L. CHATFIELD,
Colonel Sixth Regiment*Connecticut Vols., Comdg. Brigade.
Capt. C. W. FOSTER, Assistant Adjutant- General.
No. G.
Report of Col. Henry R. Guss, Ninety-seventh Pennsylvania Infantry.
HDQRS. NINETY-SEVENTH REGT. PA. VOLS.,
James Island, S. C., June 18, 1802.
LIEUTENANT: I have the honor to submit for the consideration of
ler-Geueial Williams the following report of the part sustained
by my regiment in the reconnaissance of June 10:
On the evening of the 15th an order was received to prepare one
da.v s cooked rations, which was accordingly done.
At 3 o'clock on the morning of the 10th the regiment was formed on
CHAP. XXVI.] ENGAGEMENT AT SECESSIONVlLLE, S. C. 57
its color line and in a few minutes thereafter moved forward followed
by two pieces ot Captain Ransom's battery, Third U. 8. Artillery.
About 4 a. m. the line was formed in/ the corn field on the east of
your headquarters, awaiting orders. Shortly after a heavy artillery
fire opened on the right and in the advance, upon which the column
of which we formed a part was ordered forward. After filing throu"li
the woods I deployed the Ninety-seventh into line of battle, and ad
vanced steadily across an open tield to a hedge, in front of which was
a deep swamp. This was crossed without delay, no\ however, without
being exposed to a severe fire of grape and shell from the enemy's bat
teries and fort. Taking a position behind another hedge I awaited
further orders. We were next ordered to advance and support a small
force of the One hundredth Pennsylvania Volunteers, which was hold
ing a ditch about 500 yards from the enemy's large fort. This position
we occupied for about one-half hour. We were then ordered to file
through an open country across a very deep and difficult morass and
take up a position that would cover the retirement of the infantry that
had been engaging the enemy's right. This was accomplished in good
order. Skirmishers were thrown out into the woods on the left and
around and beyond the houses on the right. This advanced position
was maintained by the Ninety-seventh until the final order to retire,
which was done in perfect order and in a deliberate manner, bringing
up at the same time the rear of the whole division.
My regiment consisted of but six companies, two companies being
on detached service and two others on picket and not drawn in.
The regiment, although exposed to showers of grape and canister
and at one time to a converging fire from a btftteiy on the left and the
fort on the right, with a gunboat dropping shell around us, lost, I am
happy to say, but one man, Gabriel Spence.* He was a member of the
band, and was engaged in collecting the wounded, and is supposed to
have been killed.
The officers and men of my command alike exhibited a praiseworthy
coolness and courage. To mention the name of one would be doing
injustice to the rest; each man did his duty.
I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
HENRY K, GUSS,
Colonel, Comdg. Ninety-seventh Rcgt. Pennsylvania Vote.
CHANNING CLAPP, First Lieut. Mass. Cav. and A. A. A. G.
NO. r.
Report of Col. Thomas Welsh, Forty-fifth Pennsylrania Infantry, com
manding Second Brigade, First .Division.
HDQRS. SECOND BRIG, FIRST Div., U. S. FORCES,
James Island, S..C., June 1C, 186J.
CAPTAIN: I have the honor to report that, in obedience to iiistrnc.
tions from Brigadier-General Wright's headquarters, received 1
ing, the troops composing my command-consisting ot six
of the Forty fifth Regiment Pennsylvania Volunteers, ^ercommaml
of Maj. J. M. Kilbomne; five companies of Colonel beirel anteer
Engineers, under the command of Major Butts and eight . s of
the Seventy-sixth Regiment Penn
*lTut see revised statement, p. 51.
-
-
; ; , ..-._ .. - -1 - _7-_>: -
Brig.
- -
U. & Arm*.
-
-
- •
- -
-
: ; -
-
•
•
CO COASTS OF S. C., GA , AND MID AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVI.
It will thus be soon that the whole front was scarcely enough to
deploy a single regiment. Colonel Fenton, in command of the First
Brigade, used every exertion to throw the Eighth Michigan as far to
the right as possible and to bring on in support the Seventh Connecti
cut and Twenty-eighth Massachusetts, but the terrible fire of grape
and musketry cut the two former regiments in two, the right going to
the right and the left to the left, whither finally the whole of the Twenty-
eighth Massachusetts took position, and where they were joined with
scarcely an interval of time by the One hundredth Pennsylvania and
Forty-sixth New York, of Leasure's brigade. These regiments had
been brought up with great promptness and energy by Colonel Leasure,
and the right of the One hundredth had pushed up to and joined the
Seventy-ninth in their charge.
It was during this brief period of less than one half hour, from 5 to
5.30 o'clock, that the greater portion of the casualties occurred. The
Ki.uhth Michigan made the most heroic exertion and suffered the most
terrible losses. Captains Pratt, Church, Guild, and Lieutenant Cot-
trcll, commanding companies, were killed, and Captains Doyle and
Lewis and Lieutenant Bates, commanding companies, \yere wounded
on or near the parapet of the work. My aide-de-camp, Lieutenant
Lyons, who led the storming party and the first man to cross the ditch,
was severely wounded on the berme of the work, and was obliged to
retire. Of 22 officers of that regiment who"" went into action 13 were
lulled or wounded.
Seeing that without supports and reforming the line it w^as useless to
continue the contest, I ordered the troops to be reformed on the hedge
the works, and the regiments which had suffered most, viz,
ghth Michigan, the Seventy-ninth Highlanders, and the Seventh
necticut, to be withdrawn to the second hedge to be reformed.
It was not till, in the execution of this order, the line at the advanced
had been inrmed and the regiments at the second hedge were
m.ng, that Colonel Williams' advance was to be seen to our left,
id soon afterward his aide-de-camp, Lieutenant Adams, reported to
My orders to Colonel Williams were to maintain the
I taken on that flank, and to do the best, in concert with
Siln,! ;M^"!!stances of tbe £rcmnd permitted. The move-
onel Williams was in my judgment the best thing that
lion ' aml he execute(l ifc *» » Banner worthy of all admira-
hedT The rein v Cnpifl1 in eslt\blishi^ the whole line at the advanced
remains of two or three companies of the Eighth Michigan
the, HiSblanders never once abandoned
cu ,
orde' ml to do ,tT T the 1Tffllt aml lcft of the euem^ ™rks till
subsequent period of the action, and the remainder
' ' that of tbc
Michian bv
-;<""•>. Monfeo,, who, woaVde^in Srad^nXSet*
The BeWb^Sffl a"(1 'U'te,r 1C<1 to lcad '"' to thVSl I
line of ba , CVt mus , jnovwl. "P m a boautiful and sustained
least pani "or 'n , „. IT* 'l T n "' ^ln<1 ""-''* llu<1 "ot bl!ei1 «ie
C,,inma,,dx_i, " , "^. ",'of f h± °"|tl10 Pil? V ll si"«lc «B™«i't.
peck-d ,,br,,,,t nan- , w ,« oMl e fro f ll"^ °f "'? fiT°",""' tllc l"lex-
""•'i— •'-• n, i „;„,', :;;;, ±L^hL^54h^er/u'a.
neniy, and the
ivided, became
CHAI-. XXVI.] ENGAGEMENT AT SECESSIONVILLE, 8. C. 61
somewhat intermingled, and it was simply a necessity to disentangle
and reform them. Not a fugitive did I observe passing from the bat
tle-field. The battery which had been temporarily withdrawn to the
road was again advanced to the hedge and opened a destructive fire
upon the enemy. Of my entire command all were thus advanced except
the Twenty-eighth Massachusetts, which had withdrawn, ami now occu
pied a position on the left of the road. The command was in excellent
spirits and in a position enabling them clearly to discern the effect of
our fire, and were prepared and eager to be led to the assault. The
flank movement of Williams was having a very marked effect. I sent
word to Brigadier-General Benham, commanding the forces, through
his staff officer, Captain El well, that my troops were in line of battle, my
guns in position at the hedge, and that I was preparing to move upon
the enemy's works.
At this stage of the action Williams' troops were withdrawn, and
I learned from staff officers who reported to General Benlram in person
that they were withdrawn by his orders. I still maintained my advanced
position, nor did I withdraw a regiment till, by the orders of General
Benham, Williams had been entirely withdrawn, and every regiment of
Wright's except the Ninety seventh had passed to the rear of the road,
and until I received his positive orders to that effect. My troops were
then withdrawn in good order and were returned to their several en
campments.
I must express my profound sense of the intrepid bearing and sol
dierly conduct of my brigade commanders, Colonels Leasure and Fen-
ton, who did everything that commanders could do to lead their
respective brigades to the attack, and it is mainly due to their exertions
that their line of battle was maintained throughout the action. Colonel
Fenton left a sick bed to command his brigade, and the bold, well-sus
tained charge of the Eighth Michigan Kegiment was made under his
direction, as was that of the Seventy-ninth Highlanders, led by Morri
son, under the direction of Colonel Leasure. All which these officers
have to say in commendation of their staff 1 know from personal obser
vation to be their simple due.
To my own staff I am under the greatest obligations, and it is owing
to the great harmony and concert of action between myself and brigade
and regimental commanders and their respective staffs that exact in
formation was had in regard to the field, and that the command was
not longer exposed, without purpose, to a destructive fire. My ass
ant adjutant-general, Capt, Hazard Stevens, was in all part
field, carrying my orders and bringing me information to the j.
posure of his life, as was my aide, Capt, William T. Lusk, ^TOnty-
ninth Highlanders, and my acting aide, Lieut, O. M. Dearborn, 1
New Hampshire Volunteers. Lieutenant Lyons, my junior ;
the storming column, was the fiist man to cross the ditch and make tn
out the action. He, communicate »iuu mv, «... -
1 call attention to his services, so conspicuous for their gall rj, a
to the mention made of him in Colonel Leasure's report. My s
C2 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVI.
heavy discharges of grape from the enemy. In the latter part of the
aetion he carried my orders and aided in the formations and move-
U1 The'staff officers of Colonel Leasure were Lieut. S. G. Leasure, One
hundredth Regiment Pennsylvania Volunteers, acting assistant adju-
The staff officers of Colonel Fentou were Lieut. L. C. Brackett,
Twenty-eighth Massachusetts Volunteers, acting assistant adjutant-
Keneral: Lieut, H. G. Belcher, Eighth Michigan Volunteers, aide-de-
eamp; Lieut. Joseph B. Fenton, Eighth Michigan Volunteers, aide-de
camp.
Lieutenant Belcher, though early and severely wounded, continued
actively on duty throughout the action, and was the last man to leave
the field.
( 'apt. A. P. Eockwell, of the Connecticut battery, deserves particular
mention for bis gallant bearing and skillful handling of his guns on that
field. Hissenior lieutenant, S. E. Porter, was remarkable for his energy,
daring, and persistency throughout.
Captain Scars, following with his engineer company the storming
party, did most excellent service; first at the advanced hedge, under
circumstances of great exposure, preparing embrasures for KockwelPs
battery, and afterwards at the road, removing obstructions therefrom,
and arranging the openings in the hedge both for infantry and artil
lery. There was no opportunity for cavalry movements proper, but the
orderlies furnished from Captain Sargent's company did most gallant
service, and the remainder of his company served effectively as vedettes
and pickets. T\vo men of his company were severely wounded and
two horses were killed. The firing from the batteries at the point by
Company I, Third Khode Island Volunteers, Capt. Charles G. Stra-
han commanding, was commenced immediately after the unsuccessful
charge of our troops had been made upon the works of the enemy.
Although having every gun but one disabled very soon after the com
mencement of the action the tiring was conducted with great precision
and regularity, nearly every shot taking effect in the fort or the woods
in the rear of the work where the large force of the enemy were lying.
The single gun was worked with as much rapidity as possible during
the entire engagement, in the course of which 1 sergeant was killed.
The gunboats Ellen and Hale came into action at a later hour, but by
their excellent range, obtained by the assistance of Signal Officer
Howard, who had been upon the Ellen for several successive days, did
very great execution among the ranks of the enemy. Although the
gunboats did not advance up the river as far as could have been de
sired in order to give a more effective flanking fire upon the fort, still
much credit is due them for the precision with which their fire was
directed at such long range.
The whole force which went into action was as follows :
Brigade, Colonel Fenton commanding: Eighth Michigan, 4
d officers, 21 officers, 500 men ; total, 534. Seventh Connecticut, 7
1 officers, 18 officers, 573 men ; total, 508. Twenty-eighth Massa-
;etts C field officers, 18 officers, 520 men; total, 544. Two compa
nies of the Twenty-eighth Massachusetts were on fatigue duty and did
not join their regiment.
Senm
lander-.
Pennsylv....^. ., m.,u omcers, is officers, 400 men (including 130 out of
300, who wove on jncHet duty, wlijcli 130 joined foe advance under foe
CHAI-. XXVI.] ENGAGEMENT AT SECESSIONVILLE, S. C. G3
fire of grape and musketry); total, 421. Forty-sixth New York 3 field
officers, 19 officers, 452 men ; total, 474.
EockwelPs artillery, 4 officers, 73 men ; total, 77. Strahan's artil-
eral staff, 9 officers, G men ; total, 15.
Total force in action, 3,562.
Moreover, the Seventh Connecticut had been on very severe fatigue
duty the three previous nights. I desire in this official report to place
on record my objections to these early moruing attacks. They are
justifiable, in my humble judgment, only under extraordinary circum
stances. The troops get necessarily but little rest the night before,
and they go to the work fatigued and excited. An attack at a more ad
vanced period of the day I consider vastly preferable. These views I
presented with all possible cogency and earnestness to General Ben-
ham on the evening of the 15th in stating my objections to his pro
posed attack at daylight on the morning of the 16th.
I must confess that the coolness and mobility of all the troops en
gaged on the 16th instant surprised me, and I cannot but believe, had
proper use been made of the artillery guns from the Navy, and our
own batteries, fixed and field; had the position been gradually ap
proached and carefully examined and the attack made much later in
the day, when our batteries had had their full effect — all which you
will recollect were strongly urged by me upon General Benliam the
evening of the conference — the result might have been very different.
From the best information I can get I am satisfied the force of the
enemy on the peninsula at Secessionville and in immediate defense of
his works was five regiments, or about 3,000 effective men. It was the
headquarters of his advance forces on James Island, and was in com
mand of a general officer.
The casualties in the action of the 16th are as follows :
Command.
Killed.
Wounded.
Prisoners.
Missing.
j Officers. H
nl.
«
"':
D
«!
82
i;7
186
334
;;:
110
M
~m
Wounded.
Unbounded.
2
8
Enlisted men.
Officers.
Enlisted men.
8
'"l
2
Enlisted men.
1
3
S
Enlisted men.
s
::::'
| Enlisted men.
Enlisted men.
First Brigade :
7th Connecticut
28th Massachusetts
2
7
8
11
2
2
8
G4
40
93
3
4
20
""i
i
13
3
6
35
4T
9
19
6
4
3
13
71
64
L7I
:14
•
LI i
a
in
8th Michigan
1
Total
3
26
12
197
3
27
i
20
1
20
3
G
3
Second Brigade :
1
1
1
5
8
8
2
5
2
15
51
30
1
9
....
79th New York
100th Pennsylvania . . .
Total
17
1
3
21
9
96
18
10
....
34
12
Company 1st Massachusetts Cavalry, Capt, L. M. Sargent, 2 ™>nnded.
Company I, 3d Rhode Island Volunteers, Capt. C. G. Straban, l Riueu.
Company Volunteer Engineers, Capt. A. F, Sears, 1 wounded.
(J4 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVI.
The missing are unquestionably killed, and the total loss is as follows:
Command.
Killed.
Wounded.
i
Prisoners.
Total.
5
1
to
til
<l
Officers.
Enlisted men.
Officers.
Enlisted men.
i
0
Enlisted men.
Officers.
S
a
I
'n
H
1st Bricido '
• 4
3
70
55
1
15
9
224
114
3
1
20
10
20
12
314
179
4
334
191
4
"il I5'i"i<lf
Total*
7
126
24 341
1
30
32
497
529
The medical officers of the division were and have been unwearied
in their exertions and attendance upon the wounded both in the baltle-
lield and in the hospital. The medical director of my division, Dr.
George S. Kemble, is especially entitled to commendation for his good
arrangements and activity.
I herewith submit the reports of brigade ami regimental commanders
and of commanders of special arms. I call special attention to the
mention made therein of gallant conduct on the part of officers and men.
Where ,so much intrepidity and devotion were exhibited I cannot do
more than to refer to the sub-reports, with the expression of my judg
ment that every case noted is well deserved.
I am, sir, very respectfully, your most obedient,
ISAAC I. STEVENS,
Brigadier- General, Commanding.
Brig. Gen. II. G. WRIGHT,
Commanding U. S. Forces, James Island, S. C.
No. 9.
Report of Col. William M. Fcnion, Eighth Michigan Infantry, commanding
First Brigade, Second Division.
. IST BRIG., 2i) Div., NORTH. DIST., DEPT. SOUTH,
James Island, S. C., June 17, 1802.
SIR: I have to repoM, for the information of the brigadier-general
uanding Second Division, the part taken by this brigade in the
c ot yesterday on the enemy's batteries. Agreeably to orders
pde was in readiness to move at 1 o'clock a. m., 16th, and at 2
in line, and moved to the second houses. After specific orders
waived from Brigadier-General Stevens, who advanced with us
the head ot the line, the brigade was put in march by the right
Hank in perfect quiet and stillness; Lieutenant Lyons, aide to Gen "ml
Stereos, m advance with guide.
Mirh? "M \OIi patnies--C> Captain Ely' aml H' C»Ptain Doyle-of Eighth
ichigan \ olmiteers, for the advance, skirmishers and attacking partv.
«« ^"th Michigan, under
* But see revised statement, p. 51.
CHAP. XXVI.] ENGAGEMENT AT SECESSIONVILLE, 8. C. 65
3. The Seventh Connecticut Volunteers, Lieutenant-Colonel Hawley
followed by a section of Connecticut battery.
4. The Twenty-eighth Massachusetts Volunteers, Lieutenant-Colonel
Moore.
On passing the house beyond the marsh the advance was fired on bv
the enemy's pickets and 2, at least, of Company H, Eighth Michigan,
wounded. Silence was still preserved, no shots returned but tin- I
men of the enemy's pickets captured and sent to the rear. The two
advanced companies were deployed into line beyond the main hedge
and marched toward the enemy's works, followed by the Eighth Mich
igan, which came up into line on the march. Advancing* with this
regiment as they formed into line in the open field, in view of the
enemy's works, and observing as well as practicable his position, I
deemed it desirable to gain ground to the right for the purpose of
flanking his left in the assault, and advancing the other regiments into
position for effective fire on his infantry supporting the works, and
ordered an oblique march, which was executed promptly and in good
order. I then dispatched Lieutenant Belcher, acting aide, to bring up
the Seventh Connecticut to form on the left of the Eighth Michigan,
and Lieutenant Brackett, acting assistant adjutant-general, to bring
up the Twenty-eighth Massachusetts to the support of the two former,
taking my position on the front and center, to receive and direct the
other regiments as they advanced.
The order not to fire, but to use the bayonet, was obeyed, and the
advanced companies reached the parapet of the works at the angle on
our right and in front, engaging the enemy at the point of the bayonet.
They were closely followed by the remaining companies of the regi
ment. During this advance the enemy opened upon our lines an
exceedingly destructive fire of grape, canister, and musketry, and yet
the regiment pushed on as veterans, divided only to the right and left
by a sweeping torrent from the enemy's main gun in front. This
brought a portion of the regiment to the left near the tower or lookout,
and a brisk fire of musketry was soon opened on both sides. The
enemy's fire proved so galling and destructive that our troops on the
parapet were compelled to retire under its cover, and that of the ditch
and slope on our right at the marsh, slope and trees on our left. They
maintained their position, partially covered, doing good execution as
sharpshooters. Further details and honorable mention of gallant officers
will be found in Lieutenant-Colonel Graves' report.
The Seventh Connecticut Volunteers, Lieutenant-Colonel Hawley,
formed into line as they advanced, reaching a point in the open field in
front of the tower, with their left resting on the bushes skirting the
marsh, when I ordered their march by the right flank across the f
and up to the support of the troops on the right. I personally directed
the movement, which was executed in good order under a continual
shower of grape and canister as well as musketry on neanng the work.
In the mean time one section of the Connecticut battery had opened (
the enemy from our left, and the march of this regiment at
between two fires. I refer for further particulars of the action ot
regiment and honorable mention of names to the report ot Liei
Colonel Hawley, commanding.
The Twenty-eighth Massachusetts Volunteers filed through the 1
hedge and came rapidly up after the advance of artillery whi
ceded them, forming column of companies and then coming ;
5 R R — VOL XIV
GG COASTS OF S. C, GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVI.
nd arriving near the Seventh Connecticut filed up to the left by the
11 k Fo/a Sort time the left of the two regiments were clustered
o her in the bushes, but the march of the Seventh Connecticut
in them The Twc'ntv-eighth then filed up to the obstructions a
B » t distance from the enemy's intrenchments near the tower, opening
fin up!!,, them. Lieutenant-Colonel JVloore's report embraces further
i.artiruhirs of the action, to which 1 respectfully refer.
A the- raiments behaved well, subjected as they were to a most
galling and raking fire until they retired. The storm of grape and
Snfetor, as well as musketry, continuing, and many of our officers and
mm being disabled, orders were received to withdraw the troops. My
command was then withdrawn, and reformed behind the mam hedge,
from which an advance was again made to the cover of the ditch or
second hedge in support of a field battery which was pushed forward.
In the woods on our right, near the angle of the fort, were posted
some of the enemy's sharpshooters. They were also in rifle pits, and
under cover in the rear as well as in the house, which was filled with
tin-Hi. From these and other covers in and about the fort and on its
right a constant fire of musketry was kept up by the enemy, who were
in considerable force. The Second Brigade of this Second Division was
promptly pushed forward to our support, and from all accessible points
the enemy was vigorously replied to.
I have no doubt they suffered a severe loss in killed and wounded.
From the enemy's floating battery or hulk to our right and front at
least four shots were fired. When the order to withdraw was given I
sent Lieutenant Fenton, acting aide, to our extreme right and front to
recall the men there. At this time he found them near the angle of
the fort and directed them to fall back, which was done by most of the
troops ; but after the regiments were reforming behind the hedge 100
or more of the Eighth Michigan still remained at the angle and were
recalled by Lieutenant Belcher, who rode over the field to bring in all
who remained able to move. The field of battle was furrowed across
with cotton ridges, and many of the men lay there loading and firing
as deliberately as though on their hunting grounds at home.
All the horses connected with my command were either killed or
wounded, and all my aides and orderlies hit in some way. During the
engagement the Eighth Michigan colors were carried on the parapet,
and after the men first withdrew were unfurled to protect from shots of
friends in rear.
While the firing was hottest and during the day's action, through
the efficient attention of Surg. Francis Bacon and Asst. Surg. Horace
Porter, of Seventh Connecticut, Surgeon Wilson, of Eighth Michigan,
and Surgeon O'Connell and Assistant Surgeon Snow, of Twenty-eighth
Massachusetts, with their respective corps, speedy relief was afforded
the wounded who were accessible.
Orders having been given to that effect, about 9 a. m. this command
•was withdrawn, and returned to camp in good order. The conduct of
all the officers of this command who came under my notice was gallant
without exception. The men behaved with admirable bravery and
coolness. I regret to report the heavy loss in the command, which is
not yet precisely ascertained, but as last reported amounts to 341
killed, wounded, and missing, of which 182 are in the Eighth Michigan
Volunteers, 85 in the Seventh Connecticut Volunteers, and 74 in the
Twenty-eighth Massachusetts Volunteers.* I will transmit at the
* See reviled statement, p. 51.
CHAP. XXVI.] ENGAGEMENT AT BECESSIONVILLE, 8. C. 67
earliest practicable moment a correct list of names, &c which i
preparation.
Lieutenant Brackett, acting assistant adjutant-general, and Lieu
tenants Belcher and Fenton, acting aides, were efficient and act ive"
Lieutenant Belcher was wounded slightly, as he supposed at the time
and continued through the entire affair on duty, although on his return
to quarters he had a ball extracted from his shoulder. His wound
however, is not dangerous.
AH?,™68 e£gaged were as follows ' Eighth Michigan— 4 field and
staff, 21 line officers, 509 rank and file ; Seventh Connecticut— 7 fie]
and staff, 18 line officers, 573 rank and file ; Twenty-eighth Massachu
setts (two companies on fatigue duty)— 6 field and staff, 18 line officers
520 rank and file.
Accompanying this are copies of reports of regimental commanders
and a rough sketch of the scene of action not claimed to be entirely
correct, but as near as can be made from the view had under fire on the
field of battle, v
I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
WM. M. FENTON,
Colonel Eighth Michigan Volunteer •*, Comdg. First Brigade.
Capt. HAZABD STEVENS,
Assistant Adjutant- General, Second Division.
No. 10.
Report of Lieut. Col. Joseph R. Sawley, Seventh Connecticut Infantry.
HEADQUABTEBS SEVENTH CONNECTICUT VOLUNTEERS,
James Island, S. C., June 16, 1862.
COLONEL : I submit a brief report of the part taken by this regiment
in the assault upon the enemy's earthworks this morning.
Our line was formed promptly at 1 o'clock, as ordered. There wer«
2 field, 5 staff, 2 non-commissioned staff, and 18 line officers, 76 non
commissioned officers, and 497 privates ; total, 600. In addition 10 or
12 musicians, and more accompanied the surgeons.
We were assigned to the center of your brigade, the First Brigade,
Second Division, and as we approached the enemy were ordered to
move forward into line on the left of the leading regiment, the Eighth
Michigan. As our right passed the building afterwards used as a hos
pital, and through the heavy hedge entered the first of the two fields
between us and the earthworks, it formed into line and continued to
march on at a rapid step. It was impossible for all of the left to get
forward into line on the run across the high ridges of the cotton fields,
encumbered as they were and worn down by night fatigues, t halted
the right for one single minute, the left still running, and the completed
line moved on in excellent order over the hedge between the two fielt
and steadily advanced upon the enemy, whose grape and rifle shot
came in showers. When within 200 or 300 yards of the earthwork tl
left wing came obliquely upon an unforeseen ditch and morass, s<
in advancing it must crowd by its right flank toward the center. At
this moment a terrible fire of grape and musketry opened on us.
line was inevitably broken. The colors stood fast, protected by C
Palmer's company (E). Captain Hitchcock, with part of Company u,
X COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVL
and Lieutenant Atwell, with part of Company 0, advanced within 130
yards of the parapet. These and a portion of the right wing, conceiv-
iii"- that the time had come when the order not to fire might be waived,
oed ;i lively discharge upon the parapet. The, men stood bravely,
bat the line could not be formed until the colors were brought into the
open field. As soon as this was done the regiment moved by the right
think under the heaviest tire, the left wing rapidly closing up, and under
your orders, when well across the field toward the marsh, filed to the
n<l advanced upon the enemy.
After moving a short distance Captain Stevens brought me an order
from General Stevens to call the men off. They could not resist the
temptation offered by the enemy's men at the guns, and a portion of
the right was slow to get the order and fall back, preferring to pick
oft' gunners and riflemen. Faced by the rear rank the battalion marched
to the hedge and lay behind it until an order from General Stevens
brought it hack to the hedge in front of the hospital. In a few moments
the general again sent us forward to the hedge across the fields, where
we lay. while three pieces (two howitzers and a rifle) of the Connecticut
light battery came up and carried on a rapid and for the most part a
very well directed fii e. Several times my men assisted with the utmost
eagerness in moving the guns and giving other aid. A portion of the
best marksmen were permitted to fire at the enemy's parapets. When
the pieces had retired beyond danger, by order from General Stevens
we were again moved in regular line to the rear, the enemy's rifled
cannon and howitzers playing upon us.'
After standing behind the hospital hedge a short time General Stevens
ordered us to camp, whither we returned in good order. An immedi
ate inquiry showed very few missing men, and the number absent not
positively known to have been left on the field dead or severely
wounded does not exceed 3 or 4.
I find it impossible to select individuals for praise. Captain Edwin
£. Hitchcock, of Company G, among the foremost, and enthusiastically
•cheering on his men, was severely wounded in the thigh. He continued
*o pall out cheerfully and to fire rifles handed him by his men until he
received a rifle-ball straight from the front through his upper lip. Four
•of his men then undertook to carry him to the rear. While they were
<loing this two of them, Sergeant Haynes and Private J. N. Dexter,
were wounded by rifle-balls, and they were obliged to leave the gallant
captain dying there. Lieutenant Hooton, of Company D, was doing his
whole duty nobly, rallying and regulating his company, when a heavy
grape-shot passed entirely through his right thigh nearly up to the
He was carried to the rear, praising his men and urging them
3D, and he lived but a short time. Lieutenant Dempsey, of Company
die in the discharge of his duty, was disabled by 'a ball through
aider, inflicting a painful but not dangerous wound. Ser-
ant ( Acting Second Lieutenant) Upson, of Company F, was heroically
t work when a grape-shot took off three fingers and dashed through
his right shoulder. There are but very slight hopes of his recovery.
lajor (Acting Lieutenant-Colonel) Gardiner, Captain (Acting Major)
)dman, Adjutant Mills, and Quartermaster Terry and Sergeant-Major
bawyer, of the field and staff, did all that could be asked of the bravest
They were entirely fearless and constantly active and near
arlv !Lm° r ' «* h° Same l may say< from Phonal observation, of
y cj ery line officer, and for aught I know it is true of all. At a
>t critical moment, when we were rearranging the line for the second
CHAP. XXVI.] ENGAGEMENT AT SECESSIONVILLE, S. C. ,,- fo
advance, nothing could have been better than the conduct of Captai
Gray, Palmer, and Skinner, and Lieutenants Chamberlain \
Thompson, Townsend, and Greene, Formidable as were the ohtt .nV
1 cannot help believing that had we possessed a better knowledge of
the ground the highest success would have crowned our efforts
This regiment was most actively engaged in the reduction of Fort
Pulaski, but this was the first time it had encountered a heavy direct
infantry fire. To meet that discharge of grape and musketry was a
severe test. When the ditch broke up our line the men did not leave
the ground 5 they stood patiently until the line was formed, and our
advances and retreats were in regular line aud time. Surgeon Bacon-
and Assistant Surgeon Porter and their assistants were very indus
trious in bringing off the wounded, to which I attribute oiir small
number of missing.
I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant
JOS. B. HAWLEY,
Lieutenant- Colonel, Comdg. Seventh Regt. Conn. Volt*
Col. WILLIAM M. FENTON,
Commanding First Brigade, Second Division.
No. 11.
Report of Lieut. Col. MacLelland Moore, Twenty-eighth Massachusetts
Infantry.
HDQRS. TWENTY-EIGHTH EEGT. MASSACHUSETTS VOLS.,
James Island, June 17, 1862.
COLONEL : In obedience to your orders of this date I have the honor
to transmit the following report of this regiment in the action of yes
terday :
The line was formed with eight companies (two, A and F, having;
been detailed previously for fatigue at batteries) at 1 o'clock on morn
ing of the 16th instant, with 60 rounds of ammunition, canteens filled,
with water, and twenty -four hours7 rations in haversacks to each man,,
as per order. When we arrived we found two regiments engaged;
inarched the regiment by the flank through a gap in the hedge into a
large field in front of the enemy's work ; forward in column by com
pany, and formed into line of battle on first company as soon as clear
of hedge. While this latter movement was being executed one regi
ment that was in front fell back and broke through our regiment,,
throwing it into confusion. Forward again; marched by the flank
through a dense bush on our left, and followed the edge of the bushes,
which formed one side of a marsh to within 40 yards of the enemy s.
work. Here our progress was interrupted by a large fallen tree, b
tween which and the enemy's work was an impassable marsh. On our
right was an abatis of dense brush and on our left and front marsh.
Here we lost many of the men who were killed and wounded in t
regiment. Seeing" that we could be of no possible use in this
with less than a platoon front to retaliate by fire on the enemy, and 1
position being raked by the fire of the gun on the corner of the enemy «
work nearest the observatory, I ordered the regiment to ret
getting back into the field I again formed line, and sooii att
70 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA
ordered to retire, which we did in good order. The officers and men
mve the honor to transmit an account of loss-killed,
•nor to be, most respectfully, y<
Lieutenant-Colonel, Comdg. Ticenty -eighth Regt. Mass. 'VoU.
Col. WILLIAM M. FENTON,
Commanding First Brigade.
Ko. 12.
Report of Lieut. Col. Frank Graves, Eighth Michigan Infantry.
HEADQUARTERS EIGHTH MICHIGAN VOLUNTEERS,
James Island, 8. C., June 16, 1862.
SIR- I have the honor to present the following report of the action
of the Eighth Regiment of Michigan Volunteers in the attack upon the
Tower battery of the enemy near Secessionville, S. C., to-day :
The regiment marched from camp at 2 a, m. In accordance with
orders from Brig. Gen. I. I. Stevens, commanding Second Division,
Companies C and H (Company H in front) were advanced within sup
porting distance of the regiment, with positive orders from General
.ens to push rapidly forward, using only the bayonet, and not to
fire a shot unless compelled to do so by an attack of a much superior
force. Upon arriving at the first negro houses in advance of our camp
a halt was ordered, when Major Watson, of this regiment, who was
there on duty as field officer of the day, was ordered to report to me,
which he did promptly, and joined the regiment, acting as lieutenant-
colonel. I moved my command rapidly forwaid without opposition to
the first houses beyond our lines, where we found a picket of the enemy,
^isiing of a lieutenant and 3 men, who, after firing two shots at us,
wounding 5 men of Company H, ran away. Two of them were soon
uied by some of Company n. The others having gained consid
erable distance, the men were unable to catch them, when I dashed
; them, soon overtook, captured, and sent them to the rear.
The regiment soon arrived at the open field in front of the enemy's
M oiks, when I formed my advance and battalion companies forward
into lino, iind moved forward at a charge bayonet at the battery. By
this time we could see the enemy formed in his intrenchments ready
to receive us. The lines advanced steadily and in good order to within
1 mii.sket-range, when the enemy delivered a close and deadly fire
ol nm.vketiy along his whole front, accompanied with rapid and heavy
harges of grape and canister and the fire of sharpshooters from
rover. Still the regiment moved rapidly on, preserving their order and
leaving the ground in their rear strewn with their dead and wounded,
and did not stop until they gained the parapet and delivered their fire
upon the enemy in his works. But they were unable to contend against
such great odds, and being entirely unsupported for a considerable
time they fell back slowly, contesting every inch of ground a short dis
tance, where they maintained ground until ordered to retreat, which
* Embodied in revised statement, p. 51.
CHAP. XXVI.] ENGAGEMENT AT SECESSIONVTLLE, S. C. 71
they did in good order, although under fire. The regiment, however
had become much scattered, owing to the great number of officers who
had fallen. A portion of the regiment was again formed upon the
colors, and took up position in support of a section of the First Con-
necticut Battery.
The veteran coolness with which the Eighth Michigan Volunteers
moved forward upon that battery and the literal execution of their in
structions under such trying circumstances were most admirable. The
conduct of the men speaks much more for the bravery of their officers
than anything that I can say, yet I cannot refrain from mentioning
Major Watson, who so gallantly conducted the right wing; Captain
Doyle, who led the van to the very parapet, and stood upon it amidst a
storm of bullets, coolly "spotting" his man with each discharge of his
revolver, and not quitting it until his arm fell powerless by his side,
shattered by a shot; Captain Church, who fell at the feet of the enemy,
sword in hand, cheering on his men; Captain Guild, who fell in the
hottest of the fight bravely fighting, musket in hand; Captain Pratt,
who, though wounded, still led on his men until he fell from sheer ex
haustion; Captain Lewis, who was severely wounded in the first fire;
the gallant conduct of Lieutenants Donohue and Cottrell, who fell
severely wounded at the head of their commands; also of Lieutenant
Bates, commanding Company F, and Lieutenants Hutchison and Smith.
1 take great pleasure in mentioning the coolness, patient attention, and
skill of our surgeon, J. C. Wilson, and notwithstanding the great dis
advantage of having no assistants no one was neglected, but all made
as comfortable as possible. And before closing this report I wish to
testify my gratitude for and admiration of the valuable services and
daring bravery of Lieutenant Lyons, of the commanding generals
staff, who was chosen as the guide of the Second Division owing to his
superior knowledge of the route, gained by his daring personal recon
naissances, and when we arrived in front of the enemy's' works he dashed
to the front, and with a " Come on, boys," he displayed his willingness
and ability to guide us into as well as up to the fort.
Upon the withdrawal of the forces the regiment was ordered to bring
up the rear of the division, so that the Eighth Michigan were the first
in and last out. I much desire, if space were allowed, to make mention
of some of the cool and daring acts of bravery on the part of some of
the privates and non-commissioned officers of this regiment.
Yery respectfully, your obedient servj^NK GEAYES>
Lieutenant- Colonel, Commanding.
Lieut. LEYI C. BRACKETT,
A. A. A. #., 1st Brig., 2d Div., North. Dist., Dept. South.
No. 13.
Report of Col. Daniel Leasure, One hundredth Pennsylvania Infantry,
commanding Second Brigade, Second Division.
HDQRS. 2D Bum., 2D Div., NORTH. DIST., DEPT. SOUTH,
James Island, S. C., June 1<, 1<^.
CAPTAIN : The undersigned respectfully reports that unt
orders from division headquarters the Seventy-ninth *ew York Vo 1
teers and that portion of the One hundredth Kegiinent Peunsylvai
72 COASTS OF 8. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAT. XXYL
Volunteers not on advanced picket duty were formed into line, and at
1.20 o'clock a. in. started for the rendezvous of the brigade, at the head
quarters of the First Brigade, where the remaining regiment, the Forty-
sixth New York Volunteers, joined, and the troops moved toward the
enemy's work in good order and the most profound silence.
About 4.30 o'clock the head of the column, marching by the flank on
a double-quick for at least half a mile, arrived opposite the work of
the. enemy, about a mile in front of them, with an open field, traversed
by two hedges, formed by cutting deep ditches, one on either side of
aii embark ment 6 feet in height, extending up to the breastworks*
The First Brigade, under Colonel Fenton, had meanwhile advanced
upon the work, and the fort had opened fire.
I now received the order from the brigadier-general commanding the
division to form the column to support the attack of Colonel Fenton. I
immediately ordered the regiment on the right, the Seventy-ninth New
York Volunteers, into line of battle, and when about two companies
on its right had got into line an urgent message came from Colonel
Fenton to hasten to his support, and General Stevens gave me the
order to advance at a double-quick, and the companies then in line
started off at that step, which made it extremely difficult for the left
to get into line, which indeed it never did until it reached the fortr
where the right, or about two companies of the right, under charge of
Lieutenant-Colonel Morrison, in command, gained a position alongside
of and upon the embankment. The left, having encountered a perfect
storm of grape and canister, was obliged to seek shelter either by
obliquing to the left under cover of a small ravine, or by dropping
amongst the cotton ridges in front of the fort, where they kept up a
steady fire on the enemy's gunners.
Immediately following the advance of the Seventy-ninth New York
Regiment the One hundredth Pennsylvania Kegiment, under command
of .Major Leckey, formed, while marching at a double-quick, to support
the advance of the Seventy-ninth New York Kegiment. The line of
battle of the One hundredth was so formed as to cover with its right
that portion of the left of the Seventy-ninth which I saw was not likely
to perfect its formation before reaching the breastworks. The Forty-
:th New York Volunteers, Colonel llosa commanding, were formed in,
ike manner to cover the left of the One hundredth Pennsylvania Vol-
rs, thus forming three lines of battle in echelon.
I ending these movements of the One hundredth Pennsylvania and
<orty-sixth New York Kegiments I advanced to hasten up the left of
the Seventy-ninth New York and lead the assault in person. On arriv-
the mtrenchment or hedge, 300 yards in front of the fort, I found
d not get my horse over, and dismounting, as did also my assist
ant adjutant-general, Lieutenant Leasure, we proceeded on foot. At
this point, together with the left wing of the Seventy-ninth New York
*rs, we entered the range of a perfect storm of grape, canister,
SMM < [1 f? fS' lam! Plece8 uf chains lired frorn tbree ™ry large
n the ort which completely swept every foot of ground within
id either cut the men down or drove them to the shelter of
nttoritt °P r>OW turned to look after and lead UP the One
th fit 1 1 in l!f « mtl TlfSiment> and f°«nd its center just entering
uler MnorTp t ' M-1^ cora lately cut it in two, and the right,
r 1 it of Z Sevpnty' Obl'q"ed <» the ri£ht a"d advanced to support the
^ enty-mnth ^ ew York, and many of the men reached the
the embankment, and some succeeded in mounting it, with a
CHAP. XXVI.] ENGAGEMENT AT SECESSION 7ILLE, 8. C. 73
<*« with a portion of
It was here that Lieutenant-Colonel Morrison was wounded and nmi v
of the Seventy-ninth either killed or wounded, as were also son! < The
One hundredth Pennsylvania. The principal casualties to the Seventy
ninth New York occurred at, this point from the enemy's musket n
while the principal casualties to the One hundredth Pennsylvania oc
curred during the few minutes that the center of the regiment was under
fire of the guns of the fort, throwing every conceivable kind of missile
and that portion of the left which remained with a portion of the
Seventy-ninth New York under partial cover of the ravine hefore
spoken of.
The One hundredth Eegiment Pennsylvania Volunteers went into
the battle a fragmentary command. Three hundred and odd privates
with the necessary officers, were on the advanced picket posts, not more
than 130 of whom could rejoin before we went into battle. The previ
ous morning report, as shown by Major Leckey's report, verified by the
official report, shows 583 privates present for duty. This would leave
283 privates to go to battle, added to which the fragmentary portions
of companies that were able to join from the pickets, amounting to not
more than 130 men, would make the whole number of that command
in battle not more than 400 men, with the necessary complement of offi
cers, and of these 130 men who joined from pickets three companies did
not arrive in time to join the regiment till it was under the thickest of
the fire, when they joined on the left, and suffered severely. It was of
these that Lieutenant Morrow was mortally and Lieutenants Blair and
Galliland seriously wounded. During the formation of the column of
attack 1 mile from the fort the Forty-sixth New York Volunteers, by
orders of General Stevens, had proceeded to the left along the road
toward Secession ville, to form, if possible, a junction with General
Wright's troops on that side, but on my plan of advance being repre
sented by my assistant adjutant-general the general directed that the
regiment should be recalled and support the One hundredth Pennsyl
vania Eegiment. This caused some delay, which was no disadvantage
under the circumstances, as it enabled that corps to form in good line
of battle, which it did, and marched steadily to the front until ordered
to halt and remain in reserve. This regiment afterward advanced and
took its position in the brigade, when it was rallied at the hedge 300
yards in front of the fort.
As soon as the advance had been checked, and it was found iinpracti
cable for the few troops on the embankmenfto take the fort, Captain
Stevens, as I am informed, ordered them to fall back to let the artillery
play upon the works, which was accordingly done in very good order.
Meantime about two companies of the One hundredth Pennsylvania
Eegiment Volunteers had rallied to their colors at the hedge 300 yards
in front of the fort, and on these, with the assistance of Lieutenant
Leasure, assistant adjutant-general, and Lieutenant Justice, acting
post and division quartermaster, I soon succeeded m rallying ti
whole of my command, and formed it in regular order for attack win
we lay, until orders came for us to fall back to the hedge in the rear,
which we did in good order, bringing off our wounded and leavin
dead. During the battle two of my mounted orderlies were wou
and one had his horse shot under him. , .
I may be permitted to report further that at, the time I arm
front of the hedge near the fort I saw nothing of any part ^thrsi
porting regiments of the First Brigade between the advancing J
74 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVI.
nd the fort and only a portion of the Eighth Michigan, who
Effi^kiffirf the for? that regiment having already been
(^invited bv the murderous fire through which we all had to pass.
T£ ^ TOO s under my command behaved with much mtrepidity and
and did not shrink from exposing themselves, as the list of
• Itk'sTilUl ow, and did not at any time evince any tendency to
hough to maintain a position for two and a half hours under a
int stream of fire was an affair calculated to try the disposition of
Please find the reports of the several regi-
mea commanders, together with their lists of casualties I must
return to the officers of the several regiments my thanks for their
steadiness and coolness and for their ready and prompt obedience to
my orders. Lieut. S. George Leasure, assistant adjutant- general, and
Lieut. Jefferson Justice, quartermaster of the One hundredth Regiment
Pennsylvania Volunteers, acting post and division quartermaster, de
serve my marked approbation for most effective assistance and for set-
tin" an example of coolness and disregard of personal danger that aided
materially in preserving coolness and intrepidity throughout the com
mand.
All of which is very respectfully reported.^^ ^ ^^
Colonel, Commanding Brigade.
HAZARD STEVENS,
Capt., A. A. A. O., Second J)iv. North. Dist., Dept. South.
No. 14.
Report of Col. Rudolph Rosa, Forty-sixth New York Infantry.
HDQRS. FORTY-SIXTH REGIMENT NEW YORK VOLS.,
James Island, S. C., June 17, 1862.
COLONEL: In obedience to your orders I have the honor to report
that the Forty -sixth 'Regiment New York Volunteers left the camp on
the morning of June 10, numbering 452 enlisted men and 22 commis
sioned officers. It was the last regiment in the brigade under your
command. About three-fourths of a mile from the place of action the
order was given to advance in double-quick time. The regiment was
conducted to the right of the road, over a very uneven field, and over
a deep ditch with hedge, which runs in front of the fort at a distance
of about one thousand paces. The regiment was then formed in line
on the left wing of the brigade under your command, and then advanced
to about 400 paces of the fort, where a very marshy ravine covered with
bushes to the left seemingly offered the means of approaching the fort
undercover. At this moment parts of the Twenty-eighth Massachu-
:s Regiment and Seventh Connecticut Regiment in retreating from
tins ravine threw themselves on our left wing, taking with them about
50 of our men. At the same time the fort, which till then had fired
with solid shot, began to fire at us with heavy grape. The line of the
brigade fell back in general and the order for retreating was given.
Nearly all our losses occurred in these movements from the heavy
.ui ;ipe of the fort. The regiment retreated behind the ditch with hedge
before mentioned, formed behind, and stood there for about fifteen
CHAP. XXVI.] ENGAGEMENT AT SECESSIONVILLE, 8. C'. 75
period the whole brigade was again formed at this ditch, and our
ment took position at its left wing, covered by the ditch. Dnrintft
this time our own artillery fired over our heads from enormous^-
taiices and burst several shells right over our heads. The fire of our
gunboats was also very disagreeable until they finally succeeded in
getting a better range. At about 9.30 o'clock the order was given to
fall back on the road, which was executed in good order, and the troons
were afterwards marched back to their quarters.
I have the honor to annex a correct list of casualties.*
Most respectfully, your obedient servant,
KUDOLPH ROSA,
Colonel, Comdg. Forty-sixth Regiment N. T. State Volt.
No. 15.
Report of Lieut. Col. David Morrison, Seventy-ninth New York Infantry.
HDQRS. SEVENTY-NINTH EEGIMENT NEW YORK VOLS.,
James Island, 8. <7., June 17, 1862.
GENERAL : In compliance with your orders I have the honor to report
the part which the Seventy-ninth (Highlanders) took in the action of
yesterday.
Between the hours of 9 and 10 o'clock p. in. (Sabbath), June 15, I
received your orders for twenty-four hours' cooked rations and to be
ready for the march at 1 o'clock a. m. Having made the necessary
preparations we moved at the time appointed. On arriving at the
camp of the Eighth Michigan I halted my command for half an hour.
I then received orders to move forward, preceded by a section of light
artillery, and in this order we advanced until within range of the
enemy's guns, where I received orders from General Stevens to tile
past the battery and advance on the double-quick. Having proceeded
about half a mile we entered a large cotton field, where I was ordered
to form line of battle and charge upon the enemy's works, and notwith
standing the ground was very unfavorable, good order was preserved.
When at a distance of about 1,000 yards the guns of the fort opened
upon us with canister, grape, and shell with fearful effect, and although
many of my men fell, yet the regiment never faltered or wavered, but
kept steadily on. Their bearing was worthy of veterans. Gallantly
did they withstand the shock of musketry, and onward they pushed
until they reached the ramparts.
As I mounted the parapet I received a wound in the head, which,
though slight, stunned me for the time being, but still 1 was able to
retain command. With me many mounted the works, but only to tt
or receive their wounds from the" enemy posted in the rifle pits ID reai
of the fort. I ordered the right wing of the regiment to post
behind the intrenchments at the left of the fort, which drove them bad
and held them in check.
From the ramparts I had a full view of their works.
* Embodied in revised statement, p. 51.
76 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [Cmr. XXVL
iDtrenched ID a position well selected for defensive purposes, and upon
which our artillery seemed to have little effect, save driving them into
their retreats, and in attempting to dislodge them we were met with a
tierce and determined opposition; but with equal, if not superior, de
termination and courage were they met by our forces, and had 1 been
supported, could have carried their works. One man came out from
tin' lort and surrendered himself, and at that time had the reserve force
come up could have held the fort, for we virtually had it in our pos
session.
Alter remaining in this position for some considerable time and not
being supported by the other regiments 1 received orders to fall back,
which I did in good order, leaving behind about 40 killed or badly
wounded, many of whom fell upon the ramparts, and brought back
with me 6 killed and about 60 wounded.
I was again ordered to form the regiment and advance the second
time, supported by the Seventh Connecticut on the right and the One
hundredth Pennsylvania on the left. We advanced in perfect order
within the distance of about GOO yards, when we were ordered to halt,
and the Connecticut battery on the right opened a galling fire with
shot and shell, which told with wonderful effect on the enemy's works.
At this time I selected a number of my best riflemen, some of whom
volunteered to advance in front of my line for the purpose of annoying
the gunners inside the fort, many of whom were picked off by our men.
The battery having expended their ammunition we were again ordered
to fall back, which we did slowly and in good order. Nobly did the
regiment sustain its former reputation and character. Many of our
brave are fallen, and fallen too upon the parapets of the fort; others
wounded severely, among whom are Lieutenants Kinnear and Eobert-
son. Their example in encouraging their men is worthy of all praise.
I inclose also a report of the killed, wounded, and missing.*
I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
DAVID MOEEISON,
Lieut. Col, Comdg. Seventy-ninth Regt. (Highlanders) N. Y. Vols.
Col. D. LEASURE,
Actg. Brig. Gen., 2d Brig., 2d Div., North. Dist., Dcpt. South.
No. 16.
Report of Maj. David A. Leckey, One hundredth Pennsylvania Infantry.
HDQKS. ONE HUNDREDTH EEGIMENT PA. VOLS.,
James Island, S. 0., June 37, 1862.
COLONEL : Pursuant to your order I have the honor to report that
on yesterday morning, the 16th instant, a portion of the One hundredth
Kegiment Pennsylvania Volunteers participated in the battle at the
Fort, near Secessionville. It is proper that you should know
?SK forcVv£lch Ye took into the field. The morning report of
1ml « ims^nt»hv°^ 583 privates present for duty. Of these 300
and some odd, with the necessary officers, went on advance picket duty
4 o'clock on the evening of the 15th, which left me about 280 men,
with the necessary officers, to go into the field.
ing _a^h^cke^headquarters, about 3 o'clock on the morn-
* Embodied in revised statement, p. 51.
CHAP. XXVI.] ENGAGEMENT AT SECESSIONVILLE, 8. C. 77
ing of the 16th, I found that two companies of the picket reserve had
been sent by somebody to drag a heavy piece of ordnance to the new
battery and bring a correspondingly heavy piece that was dama-.-d
back again, and ordering them to follow as rapidly as possible, together
with all the other pickets that could be collected on the march and
proceed with the column to the attack of the enemy's works with the
brigade. About 130 men of the picket, including 'the two companies
of the reserve alluded to as being on fatigue duty, joined me on the
march or after we had got under fire. Some three-quarters of a mile
before reaching the point opposite the fort from which the charge was
made we marched at a double-quick, and immediately on entering the
field, about a mile in front of the lort, we were ordered into line and
also to advance to support the Seventy-ninth Ivlew York, already mov
ing at a double-quick upon the enemy's works. Of course to prove of
any service as a support we must also move at that pace, and it was
extremely difficult to maintain even the semblance of a line when the
men on the left were falling breathless from the great exertions they
were obliged to make to get forward into line.
On passing the hedge about 300 yards in front of the fort our center
at once entered the line of a discharge of grape nnd canister which com
pletely cut the command in two, the part on the right obliquing over
to the right to support the Highlanders, who were up to and some
of them upon the breastworks of the fort. The other part advanced
steadily till, when within about 30 or 40 yards of the fort, an order
came from one of General Stevens' aides to fall back, which they did
in good order, to the hedge, and there halted till ordered by Captain
Stevens to fall back still farther to permit the artillery to fire over
our heads. Afterward Lieutenant Leasure, acting assistant adjutant-
general, brought me your cheering order to advance and rally on our
colors, which we did 'with alacrity. Here we soon found the whole
brigade in good order, good spirits, and ready to advance, and alter
remaining till 7.30 o'clock Captain Stevens brought up the order to fall
back to the road, which, as you are aware, was done slowly and in good
order.
Of the earlier operations of the left wing of my command, after we
were separated by the fearful storm of grape and canister that we
encountered in front of the fort, I cannot speak from personal observa
tion, but as that part of the regiment was on the extreme left, under
your own eye, and where our chief losses occurred, you will be able to
judge of the conduct of that portion of my command for yourself,
may say, however, that so far as I could observe the conduct of the
men was cool and brave, and the officers discharged their duties regan
less of personal danger.
Accompanying this report I send a report of our casualties.
I cannot permit this opportunity to pass without bearing testimony
to the great personal worth, coolness, and bravery of the
Lieutenant Morrow, of Company I, mortally wounded, and
dead* D. A. LECKEY,
Major, Commanding.
• Embodied in reyised statement, p. 51.
78 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAT. XXVI.
NO. 17.
Report of Col. Robert Williams, First Massachusetts Cavalry, command
ing Third Brigade.
HEADQUARTERS,
Hilton Head, S. C., July 13, 1862.
GOVERNOR : I have the honor to inclose herewith the official copy of
Maj. Edwin Metcalf B report of the part taken by his battalion, Third
Rhode Island Artillery, in the battle of Secessionville, James Island.
8, C., June 16.
Major Metcalf's command was thrown forward into the position of
which he first speaks with the Third New Hampshire Regiment, and
supported by the Ninety-seventh Pennsylvania and Forty-seventh
New York Regiments, for the purpose of keeping down the fire of the
enemy's main works while General Stevens made his second advance.
This was so well done by the Third New Hampshire Regiment and
by Major Metcalf's battalion while with the New Hampshire Regi
ment, that the enemy were wholly unable to man their guns, and
General Stevens succeeded in bringing forward his command to a small
embankment about 400 yards from the work without the loss, I believe,
of a man while crossing a large open space before reaching the embank
ment.
I desire to express to Your Excellency my extreme admiration of the
courage and soldierly conduct of Major Metcalf's battalion, and partic
ularly of the major himself. It is my belief that no officers or men
could have behaved better under fire than they did, and certainly no
•fficer could have led his command with more skill and bravery than
did Major Metcalf.
I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
ROBT. WILLIAMS,
Colonel First Massachusetts Cavalry, Commanding Post.
To His Excellency Governor SPRAGUE,
Providence, R. L
No. 18.
Report of Lieut. Col. John H. Jackson, Third New Hampshire Infantry.
HDQRS. THIRD NEW HAMPSHIRE VOLUNTEERS,
James Island, 8. C., June 19, 1862.
0* the m ' t0 present tbe foll°wing report:
com *nf ^^f J^l*he 1?th lns.tant J received orders to form the six
support the advance Thiiiki T f°r me to move on and
there was some four foVces /nllv.n ^ 8°me mistake' and that
n advance, I threw forward my two flank
CHAP. XXVI.] ENGAGEMENT AT SECESSIONV1LLE, S. C. 79
companies as skirmishers under cover of some shanties that were very
near the earthworks, and gave them a fine opportunity to operate against
the enemy. Company A was commanded by Captain Clark, and Com
pany E by First Lieutenant Maxwell. I then moved the remainder of
the regiment to within 40 yards of the side of the earthworks and opened
fire, driving therefrom three guns, which appeared to me to be facing
the southwest. I found there was no artillery facing the side I was on,
and it would have been very easy for me to have gone into the fort, pro
vided I could have crossed a stream between me and the earthworks
about 20 yards in width, with apparently 4 or 5 feet of water and the
mud very soft; the men therefore, could not cross. After getting into
this position the enemy soon opened on me from a battery that was
about 200 yards in our rear, throwing grape into the ranks, from which
we suffered severely. In a short time they opened fire with rifles and
infantry. At the same time a battery about a mile north of us opened on
us with round shot and shell, one shot from which killed a captain and
non-commissioned officer, yet the men stood all these fires and obeyed
orders promptly. There soon appeared on our left a body of the enemy,
forming in three battalions, in which form they marched to re-enforce
the earthwork in front of us. During this time I had informed the gen
eral of our position and of the above-mentioned re enforcements. At
this time the Third Rhode Island made an attack on the force in my
rear, materially assisting me in my position.
Meanwhile the re-enforcements of the enemy Lad come in range of
our fire, and I opened fire on them with good effect, but they were so
well covered that they succeeded in throwing a portion of the force into
the fort, and there, being well covered, their fire on us was very severe,
and detracted our fire from the re-eriforcemeuts and gave them an op
portunity to throw them all into the fort. Their number was so large
we could not cope with them to any advantage, and by this time the
other batteries, both in our rear and the one at the north of us, opened
a fresh fire on us with more effect than ever. Some of my men by this
time had tired over 50 rounds and many of the guns were very f
some even having to shoot away their rammers, being unable
Finding at this time that I was far in advance of all our forces and
seeing some of the forces retiring from the field, and as it appear*
no advantage to bold my position any longer, I gave the order 1
retire, which the regiment did in good order, to the old buildings
which we started. I soon received orders to fall back in the re*
some of our forces, and in a short time after reaching that poi
orders to return to camp.
All my command, with one exception, behaved so well that
to discriminate in favor of any few, but a number of cases co
under my personal observation, I will take this opportunity t(
th field officers-Major Bedel, acting lieuten ant-colon el; Captain
80 COASTS OF 8. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAF. XXVI.
tioned on the left and received the first fire of the enemy's re-enforce-
uieuts which wounded his lieutenant and orderly -sergeant and many
of his men. Captain Wilbur, with his company, was next in line and
much exposed to the enemy's fire. He was cool and continually en
couraging his men. Captain Eandlett's company was under a severe
fire, during which the captain kept his men in order and set them a
good example.
First Lieutenant [H. C.J Handerson, commanding Company G, was
in position near Company C, and handled his company finely, with the
assistance of Second Lieutenant Cody, detailed from Company C to
assist him. Lieutenant Cody was shot through the thigh and Lieu
tenant Handerson was shot in the arm.
Captain Dow, of Company H, although he carried his company on
the field in good shape, behaved very imprudently while there, making
remarks about the impossibility of our sustaining our position and the
impropriety of our remaining in that position; all this in the hearing
of his men discouraging the men, taking their attention from the enemy
in front of us.
Among the non-commissioned officers and privates who are worthy
of special mention are Orderly-Sergeants [Jonah] Libby, of Company
B; [Joseph J.I Donohoe, of Company C; [M. P.I Hawkins, of Company
I, and [W. H.j Trickey, of Company G, who came under my personal
observation 5 also Second Sergeant [N. J.] Campbell, of Company K.
Captain Clark, of Company A, reports that First Sergeant [E. W.]
Hough ton deserves mention for the faithful manner in which he per
formed his duty on that day, but my space will not allow me to men
tion all who are worthy of mention for their good conduct.
We went into the fight with 26 officers and 597 enlisted men, and
104 were killed and wounded.
Surgeon Moulton was absent from the regiment from Sunday morn
ing, the 15th instant, until Wednesday morning, the 18th, without my
consent, and therefore the whole duty of the hospital department de
volved upon Asst, Surg. B. F. Eaton, who faithfully performed his
<luties to the sick and wounded soldiers.
With great respect, this report is respectfully submitted.
JOHN H. JACKSON,
Lieutenant- Colonel, Comdg. Third New Hampshire Vols.
Actg. Brig. Gen. ROBERT WILLIAMS.
No. 19.
Report of Capt. Alfred F. Sears, First New York Engineers.
CAMP OF COMPANY E, NEW YORK VOL. ENGINEERS,
Second Vtv., Northern Dist, Department of the South,
James Island, S. C., June 17, 1862.
CAPTAIN : I have the honor to submit, in accordance with to-day's
circular the following report of our part in the action of yesterday :
™°nf H £6D? ral Ste1vens mv company was constituted the pioneer
nrlnm > »"**"** column, and moved forward in the rear of the
KX!ffS^^ enererinS implements to remove obstruc-
wLn f i r i1Ug i61r muskets slunS UPOU their backs.
rear aMferiSC f ^l the enemy's batter^ we withdrew to the
the right, as directed, to await orders, and before reaching the
CHAP. XXVI.] ENGAGEMENT AT SECESSIONVILLE, S. C. 81
fort were ordered to render the artillery such assistance as they needed
in crossing the held. Accordingly I marched to the left and piece!
to open a road through the dike to the left and front of ouM e d >
tery then nearest the fort. The enemy discovered the proceeding a
determined to prevent the passage, distributed his favors between the
battery and my little company. The fire was dreadful for a time but
by keeping the unemployed under cover of the dike, and carefully
watching the enemy to protect those at work, we succeeded in tillin-
both ditches and making a good road.
While engaged in the operation at this point the half-completed open
ing was adopted as an embrasure for one field piece, and the enemy
became more severe in his fire, holding the two corps in range
Having remained with the artillery to assist them to the rear I was
ordered to clear the causeway on the right in rear. We found lar<'e
timber of pine and live oak thrown across the road at various points
which were cleared away, and we returned to near the position occu
pied by the artillery to await orders, our labor ending with widening
the road by which the battle-field was entered and left.
Some of my men having received the order to unsling muskets and
fix bayonets just before the charge, and supposing they were to have
part in that movement, dropped axes and shovels and rushed forward
to charge with the advancing column. I thus lost the use of some im
plements.
I respectfully submit that our efficiency would have been increased
if we had entered the field unencumbered with arms and accouter-
ments — unless indeed we could have been provided with pistols and
sabers for our defense in case of need. The sabers would form a useful
implement also in clearing entanglements, abatis, and hedges. As it
was, we found it impossible to move with the horses of the artillery
without great exhaustion. Notwithstanding their fatigue the men
worked with zeal and energy.
I find it difficult to name separately any man of my company when
so many of them did their whole duty j but a striking instance of
bravery occurred in the conduct of (Jorpl. George D. Hughes, who on
two occasions, when the men for a moment shrank under the galling
fire of grape, sprang upon the dike nearest the enemy and worked till
exhausted, thus inciting the men by his example and securing the rapid
completion of the work in hand. Corporals Mandeville and Duggan
were also examples of bravery to the men. I have especial pleasure iu
mentioning the conduct of my first lieutenant, Hiram Farrand, whose
singular coolness and efficiency in the midst of the worst lire have
increased my appreciation of his character and made him the pride of
his company. I have already reported 1 wounded. The casualty
occurred on the dike above mentioned, where Cartright was earnestly
at work in discharge of his duty. Mr. Farrand and myself had occa
sion to notice that the enemy's sharpshooters were not confined to the
fort and that our standing together drew their favors.
On our return from the field with the artillery my men found and cap
tured a rebel outlier hidden in a ditch. He was sent to the i
given in proper charge.
I am, sir, respectfully, your obedien^seTvan^ ^ ^^
Captain Company E, New York Volunteer Engineers.
Capt. HAZARD STEVENS, n c A
A. A. <?., Second Div., North. Dist., Dept. South, D. S. A
6 E R— YOL XIV
82 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAI-.XXVI.
:NO. 20.
Report of Capt. Alfred P. Rockiccll, First Connecticut Battery.
JAMES ISLAND, June 17, 1SC2.
SIR: I have the honor to report, for the information of the command
ing general, the part taken by the First Light Battery, Connecticut Vol
unteers, in the attack yesterday upon the enemy at Secessionville, S. C.
In compliance with orders received from Brigadier-General Stevens,
commanding Second Division, the two sections of the First Connecticut
Battery were ready to move at 2.30 o'clock in the morning. The section
of 12-pOUnder howitzers, under command of Lieut. S. E. Porter, took its
place in the First Brigade immediately in rear of the Seventh Con
necticut Kegiment; the remaining section, under command of Lieut.
William T. Seward, immediately in rear of the First Brigade, and all
moved forward with the column. On reaching the causeway the rifled
section was halted by order to allow the Second Brigade to pass by. It
then moved forward in the rear of this brigade. The howitzer section
on reaching the field moved obliquely across the field in rear of the
two advancing regiments as rapidly as the extremely uneven surface of
the ground would admit, and took up a position on the left of the Eighth
Michigan Regiment at a point about 500 yards from the Tower, and
opened tire upon the enemy's earthwork very soon after the enemy had
commenced tiring. In the mean time the rifled section had arrived upon
the field and was advancing to the support of the pieces already in posi
tion, when orders were received to send forward one piece only, arid
that I should plant the other piece in the road to protect the left flank.
I accordingly sent the one piece, under command of Lieutenant Seward,
to support Lieutenant Porter. He joined him, and the three pieces kept
up a constant fire until after the infantry had fallen back to the hedge.
The pieces were then withdrawn in good order to the road. Here the
two sections took position and opened fire upon the enemy's works at a
distance of about 1,500 yards, firing constantly and regularly until after
the enemy's guns had ceased to answer.
When the infantry were again moved forward on our right the how
itzer section, in obedience to orders, advanced to support them, with in
structions to fire canister. They took up a position and maintained it
under a heavy fire of grape, canister, and solid shot from the enemy's
earthworks, at a distance of from 400 to 500 yards, until the retreat was
ordered. The rifled section was soon ordered up to support the how
itzers, and accordingly moved rapidly forward.
Finding upon examination that I had fired away nearly all my ammu
nition I sent Lieutenant Seward back to camp for a fresh supply, w^hich
arrived on the ground just after the retreat to the wood had been
effected.
The four pieces continued firing from the advanced positions which
they held until the retreat was ordered. It was here that I had 4 horses
The retreat was effected in good order, one piece at a time, so
to give the enemy a point to concentrate his fire, to the corn field
the rear of the wood, where the battery was ready to move in any
direction ordered.
While preparation was being made to plant the pieces on the line of
lie mid a iurther retreat was ordered, and the battery moved off and
; "P i '"T 1('n near the causeway, supported by cavalry, to cover the
eat should the enemy advance. Subsequently we moved back to
camp, leawng one section at the headquarters of the reserve pickets.
CHAP, xxvi.] ENGAGEMENT AT SECESSIONVILLE, S. C. 83
It remained there all day until 10 o'clock at night, when iu complia
with orders it moved back to earn]).
It gives me pleasure to notice the cool courage and good iudirineiit
of Lieutenant Porter and Lieutenant Seward, the former of wh n ',
command during the action of the howitzers, and was more paiXariv
exposed to the enemy's fire; and I would also call attention t ,
inirable behavior and unflinching courage shown by the noil r on,'
sioned officers and privates of my command as well as to their r'lv
and prompt obedience of orders.
After leaving the field I found that there were still remaining 31
rounds to each one of the four pieces, of which, however, ten only were
shell and spherical case, the balance being canister. iWing the action
therefore, more than 500 rounds, almost entirely of shell and spherical
case shot, were fired. I have to add that I suffered no loss in killed
wounded, or missing.
I remain, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
ALFRED P. ROCKWELL,
Captain, Commanding First Light Battery, Connecticut Vols.
Capt. HAZARD STEVENS,
Asst. Adjt. Gen., 2d Div., North. Dist., Dept. of the South.
P. S. — Having no wounded of the battery to attend to, Assistant Sur
geon Hurlbut rendered most efficient service in bringing in the wounded
from the field and assisting in the care of the wounded of other regi
ments.
No. 21.
Report of Maj. Edwin Metcalf, Third Ehode Island Heavy Artillery.
JAMES ISLAND, S. C., June 18, 1862.
LIEUTENANT : I have the honor to report that, in accordance with
the instructions received on the evening of the 15th instant from the
acting brigadier-general commanding the First Division, headquarters
brigade, my battalion was held in readiness to move at 3 o'clock on the
morning of the 16th. Company I, Captain Strahan, being detailed for
duty at the battery in advance of the First Brigade, and a detachment
under Lieutenant Metcalf, of Company K, remaining in charge of the
battery at this point, my command comprised but live companies — B,
E, F, H, and K— numbering 360 enlisted men, with '2 field, 3 stair. ;md
14 company officers.
Hie other companies marched steadily to the front, halting in a posi-
;iou to support the troops of the First Brigade, who had fallen b ick,
ind huinp- ioiiiPTl at, this noint bv the parties thrown out as skirmishers.
were
the
The
tion
and being" joined at this point by the parties
After again advancing in line, under orders to support the JNm
seventh Pennsylvania Volunteers, the battalion for this purpose en
the marshy ground flanking the enemy's battery. We had
formed in line of battle and commenced firing when an order (
capture a field battery in their rear, which was firing with a fatal el
on the Third New Hampshire Kegiinent. The battalion was immediately
84 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXYI.
ordered to about-face, and advanced upon the thicket behind which
the enemy's Held gnus were concealed. In effecting this object we
encountered a galling fire from the enemy's sharpshooters in the thicket
at our front and left, and many were wounded in our ranks ; but all
pressed forward, the men cheering and firing with spirit. I urged them
to the cover of the wood as rapidly as possible, and with great diffi-
culty they forced their way in, encountering small parties of rebels,
many of whom were shot and bayoneted, 1 prisoner being secured.
A few of my men succeeded in reaching the inner edge of the thicket
and gaining sight of the field guns, 3 in number, without horses, and
supported apparently by only two or three companies of infantry. I
frit confident of securing them, but the Third New Hampshire Eegi-
inriit having fallen back, I deemed it iny duty to order my men to
retire, which they did in good order, but slowly and reluctantly, bring
ing otf such of our dead and wounded as could be seen on our way.
Feeling my utter want of experience, I have great hesitation in speak
ing of the conduct of those under my command, some of whom were,
not like myself, for the first time under fire. I keenly appreciate the
honor of leading such men into battle, and cannot too highly praise
their coolness, steadiness, and courage. If any faltered, I was spared
the shame of seeing it.
Where all did their duty so well I mention a few whose bearing
was conspicuous, without detracting from the merits of others : Maj.
H. T. Sisson deserves much credit for his successful management
in the skirmishes during the advance and for his constant efforts to
aid me in carrying out the various orders received in the course of the
morning.
I take great pleasure in speaking of the adjutant of the battalion,
of Company E, nobly proved himself deserving the commission he had
received since our departure from Ililton Head, falling mortally wounded
while cheering on his men into the thicket from which the enemy so
severely annoyed us. Capt. H. Eogers, jr., and First Lieut. C. E. Bray-
ton, of Company H, wore untiring in their exertions and zealously sup.
»rted me. First Lieut. A. W. Colwell, of Company F, and Second
Lieut. D. B. Churchill, of Company K, particularly attracted my notice
by their coolness and energy.
I am pleased to name First Sergt. G. W. Greene and Sergt. J. B.
atcnelder, of Company B ; First Sergt. O. A. Thompson, of Company
B, and First Sergt. W. Wheeler, jr., of Company K^as distinguished
illant conduct. I shall feel justified in recommending them to the
Governor of Ehode Island for promotion.
ivith a bitter feeling of regret, though with no sense of shame,
; report the serious loss sustained by nay battalion : One
sergeant and 6 privates killed; 2 officers, 4 corporals and 24 privates
l ; 1 corporal and 7 privates missing. Total 45
servant,6 ^ tO ^ lieutenant> ™ry respectfully, your obedient
EDWIN METCALF,
Mafw, Comdg. Second Battalion, Third E. I. Artillery.
Lieut. CHAINING CLAPP,
Acting Assistant Adjutant- General.
CHAP. XXVI.] ENGAGEMENT AT SECESSIONVILLE, S. C. 85
Ko. 22.
Report of Capt. Lucius N. Sargent, Jr., First Massachusetts Cavalry.
JAMES ISLAND, S. C., June 17, 1862.
At 10 o'clock p. in., June 15, 18G2, ordered by General Stevens to
have my command ready to march at 1 o'clock a. m. with CO rounds
cartridges and twenty-four hours' rations. Ready at 1 o'clock, with 1
lieutenant and 27 men, including no 11 -commissioned officers and 1
bugler. Immediately ordered by Captain Stevens, assistant adjutant-
general, to get my men into line, leave them in camp, and report myself
to the general. Did so. Ordered by the general to detail 4 orderlies
for Colonel Feriton, of the Michigan Eighth, to return to camp, to follow
the main body at dawn and then act according to circumstances. Let
the men sleep until nearly dawn, and then took them across the cause
way, and placed them in a tolerably safe position behind a wooded ridge
by the road-side. Told orderlies as they passed to report my position
to the general. Remained there about two hours. The rebels then got
the range of the causeway. I led the men across it again at a walk
and drew up behind the woods. Immediately I received orders from
General Stevens to resume, as I understood, my former position aud
await orders. Did so, crossing the causeway at a trot. Leaving the
troop with the lieutenant, rode forward to the general, who ordered ine
to bring my men on at once and form them in the corn field in the most
protected situation and to charge if the retreat became disordered by
the enemy's advance. After placing the men in the corn field, ordered
by the general to reconnoiter toward the left with G men. Did so
pretty thoroughly, and discovered no signs of the enemy's advance.
Ordered to return and follow up the retreat by Captain Stevens, assist
ant adjutant-general. Did so at a walk. Presently informed by Cap
tain Stevens that the rebel sharpshooters were close upon us and
advised to move more rapidly. Closed up with the column at a trot.
Ordered by the general to post vedettes and reconnoiter generally till
fresh infantry pickets should arrive. We were utterly unable to dfo
cover any trace of the enemy's advance. Soon received orders f
Captain Stevens to withdraw the vedettes. Did so, the infantry picket
being posted.
During the action 2 of my horses were killed— 1 being shot in the
head, the other in the body; and 2 of my men were wounded severely-
1 in the hand, groin, and thigh, the other in the leg. Another, whose
horse's head was blown to pieces, was stunned and COUSK
by his fall. The men's conduct exceUentg ^ ^^^ ^
Captain, Company H, First Massachusetts Volunteer Cavalry.
No. 23.
Reports of Maj. Gen. John C. Pemberton, C. S. Army, commanding Dr
partment of South Carolina and Georgia.
CHARLESTON, S. C., June 16, 1802.
The loss of the enemy this morning in killed left on the .field is not
less than 150. We have taken wounded prisoners not
8G COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVI.
not wounded, 42. The number of dead is probably greater.
&lSSfd&j and wounded. Our killed about 20; wounded,
perhaps 30.
Major- General, Commanding.
GEORGE W. RANDOLPH, Secretary of War.
HDQRS. DEPT. OF SOUTH CAROLINA AND GEORGIA,
Charleston, S. C., June — , 1862.
GENERAL : I trust it will not be considered irrelevant, in officially
reporting the action of June 16 between our forces and those of the
I'nited States on James Island, to refer briefly to the connection which
this affair had with certain alterations I had adopted in the plan of
defense established prior to iny assignment to the command of this
department.
Alter a thorough personal examination of Cole's Island, its defenses
and approaches, I was convinced that, however desirable in many
respects it might be to continue its occupation, there were disadvan
tages not to be overcome with the means at my disposal. I deemed it
therefore essential to the safety of Charleston that the batteries on
Cole's and Battery Islands should be transferred to a more defensible
position on the James Island side of the Stono River. This change
would draw in our lines to the best supporting distance, and compel a
land attack upon our intrenched position across James Island, flanked
on the right by the proposed fort on the JStouo and on the left by the
advanced work at Secession ville. This design was carried into execu
tion. A strong and commanding work was erected on the Stouo, com
pletely controlling that river in the direction of the inlet of the same
name, as well as the approach through North Edisto Inlet and the
mouth of Wappoo Cut. The intrenched lines to the east of James
Island Creek were also greatly strengthened by a system of interior
redoubts and redans. Early in May the guns were removed from
Cole's and Battery Islands, On the 13th of the same mouth the abduc
tion of the steamer Planter by her negro crew gave the enemy infor
mation of the abandonment of Cole's Island. The services of ^skillful
pilots among these negroes were immediately availed of, and the en
emy's gunboats entered the river about the 17th. Under cover of their
fire he commenced landing his troops on James Island on June 2. His
force was gradually increased until it was believed to have amounted
to from 10,000 to 12,000 of all arms. Between June 2 and 15 several
skirmishes occurred, the results of which were duly reported by the
immediate commander and the reports forwarded to the War Depart
ment. The enemy kept up at intervals a heavy fire from his gunboats,
varying from five to eight in number, against Secessionville, from posi
tions on the Stono and a branch of Folly River, as also from a land
battery, established under cover of his boats, on a point distant about
a mile from our own battery at Secessionville. No injury was, how
ever, done to our works; 1 man was killed in his teiit and several
wounded. A few shell were thrown in the direction of the new fort
on the btono at long range, but no attempt was made to engage the
fort at a less distance than 2J miles.
About 4 a. in. on the 16th the enemy drove in or captured our
'00 yards in front of the battery at Secessionville, and
advancing rapidly upon this work in line of battle arrived within a
tew hundred yards of it before our guns could open upon him.
CHAP. XXVI.] ENGAGEMENT AT SECESSIONVILLE, S. a 87
To the culpable negligence of the pickets is to be attributed the
Dee) were moved promptly into position, under the orders of Col T
G. Lamar, the heroic commander of the post. The enemy was driven
back in confusion and with great loss. A second attempt after he had
received re-enforcements met with a similar result, and a third was
equally unsuccessful. A Hank movement was then attempted against
the right of the battery, but was repulsed by the Charleston Bat-
talion, aided by the Louisiana Battalion, under Lieutenant-Colonel
McEnery, which had been promptly dispatched by Col. Johnson lla-
good, the immediate commander, to the support of Secessionville on
the first intimation of the enemy's advance upon that position, and
which arrived in time to participate fully in the dangers and glory of
this admirable repulse.
On the evening of the 15th I directed Brigadier-General Evans to send
sufficient re-enforcements to Secessionville to relieve the Louisiana [Bat
talion] of the arduous duties in which it had been engaged for a number
of days previous. A detachment of 4 officers (Capt. J. Jamison com
manding) and 100 men of Colonel Goodlett's Twenty-second South Caro
lina Volunteers came up just in time to meet the first onset of the enemy,
performing most excellent service and sustaining a loss of 10 killed
and 7 wounded. For further details of the action immediately in front
of Secessionville I respectfully refer to the reports herewith^ of Brig
adier-General Evans, Col. T. G. Lamar, and his subordinate command
ers; and forthosedetailsresultingfrom the enemy's flank movement upon
Secessionville to Brigadier-General Evans' report, to that of Col. John
son Hagood, First South Carolina Volunteers, who had been assigned
to the command of an advanced corps, composed of his own regiment,
the Twenty-fourth South Carolina, Col. C. H. Stevens, the Eutaw Bat
talion, Lieutenant-Colonel Simonton, and the Louisiana Battalion, Lieu
tenant Colonel McEnery — the latter, as before stated, was early dis
patched to the support of Secessionville, the remaining corps greatly
aiding in the first and complete defeat of the enemy. The report of
each of the above-named subordinate commanders is respectfully for
warded herewith.
Not having been an eye-witness of this well-fought combat, it is im
possible for me perhaps to commend where commendation is most dne.
Many of the best and bravest have fallen, among them Capt. S. J. Reed,
Louisiana Kegiment 5 Capt. Henry King, Charleston Battalion; Fiwt
Lieut, John Edwards, of the same command, and Second Lieut. K. W.
Greer, Eutaw Battalion, and. First Sergt. James M. Baggott, who tell
while serving his piece as No. 1, and was immediately succeeded by t\
company commander, the gallant and lamented Reed.
My estimation of the conduct of Col. T. G. Lamar is fully expressed
in my General Orders, No. 30, of June 17. His undaunted courage was
an example well followed by those who surrounded him. Lieui
Colonels P. C. Gaillard, A. D. Smith, and J. McEnery, Maj. D.K
Cat, J. Jamion were each in command of their respective cor]
Capt, J. Jamison, were each in
&
]
of further
vjuuu o. tFciiiiiftUii, wt7ic ca^n tu if' fh/»
ing the whole or a part of the action, and are highly commem led
report of Colonel Lamar. I reler to his and to the reports ot the r
cers above named for records of further instances ot^iii. ivuliia ?al-
88 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVI.
who, all deserving high praise themselves, have doubtless bestowed it
where it is best deserved.
I inclose herewith a list of killed, wounded, and missing, amounting
in the ac "reeate to 204.* Many of those reported as wounded were but
slightly SO. I also inclose a list of those most highly commended by
commanders.
From the best information I have received I estimate the loss of the
enemy to have been between 700 and 800.
' Very respectfully, your obedient servant^ pEm^T^
Major- General, Commanding.
General S. COOPER,
Adjutant and Inspector General.
[luclosure.]
In the report of Brig. Gen. N. G. Evans.
Col. T. G. Lamar, Lamar's regiment South Carolina Artillery, for
gallant and meritorious conduct. Lieutenant-Colonel Gaillard, Charles
ton Battalion South Carolina Volunteers (mentioned particularly in re
port of Col. T. G. Lamar), gallant conduct. Lieut. Col. A. D. Smith,
Smith's battalion South Carolina Volunteers (mentioned particularly
in report of Col. T. G. Lamar), gallant conduct. Capt. Samuel J. Heed,
Company B, Lamar's regiment artillery, fell gallantly fighting one of
his guns (again mentioned in report of Col. T. G. Lamar).
Personal xtajf.— First Lieut. W. H. Rogers, special aide-de-camp,
rendered valuable service in transmitting orders under fire. Capts.
R. E. Elliott, Samuel J.Corrie, and H. W. Carr, volunteer aides-de-camp,
rendered valuable services in transmitting orders under fire. Assist.
Surg. James Evans rendered material aid to the wounded.
In the report of Col. T. G. Lamar.
Lieut. Col. A. D. Smith, Smith's battalipn South Carolina Volun
teers, gallant and meritorious conduct (mentioned in report of Brig.
Gen. N. G. Evans). Lieut. Col. P. C. Gaillard, Charleston Battalion,
gallant conduct (mentioned in report of Brig. Gen. ET. G. Evans), sta
tioned in the center and on the right of the battery at Secessionville
and subsequently in command of the battery. Maj. David Rainsay,
Charleston Battalion, meritorious conduct, on the right of the battery
at Secessiouville. Major Uudson, Smith's battalion, meritorious con
duct, on the left of the battery at Secessionville. Capt. Samuel J.
Reed, Company B, Lamar's regiment artillery, fell fighting one of his
guns in the battery at Secessionville (mentioned in Brigadier- General
Evans' report). Capt. F. T. Miles, Calhoun Guard, Charleston Battal
ion, gallant conduct, stationed in battery at Secessionville. Capt. G.
D. Keitt, Lamar's regiment artillery, great bravery. Lieutenants Bar
ton, Oliver, and Moseley, same regiment, great bravery. Senior First
Lieut. J. B. Humbert, Company I, Lamar's regiment artillery, spe
cially mentioned for great bravery and valuable services, stationed in
battery at Secessionville, 8-iuch columbiad. Lieutenants Lancaster
ami Johnson, Company B, Lamar's regiment, and Lieutenant Bellinger,
of same company, gallant conduct, in battery at Secessionville. Lieut.
Not found.
CHAP. XXVI.] ENGAGEMENT AT SECESSIONVILLE, S. C. 89
J. B. Kitching, Company H, Lamar's regiment sall-int t
Keed's battery, Clarke's house.' Adjt. E. JMriS^*^
ment gal ant conduct, battery at Secessionville and Heed's battely
at Clarke's house. Capt. W. W. McCreery, Ordnance Department,
C. S. Army, rendered valuable service at the 8-inch oolumbiad in tin'
battery at Secessionville. Captain Bonueau, Lieutenants MattliewH
and Hall, C. S. Navy, rendered valuable service at the 8-inch columbiad
in the battery at Secessionville.
In Hie report of Col. S. D. Goodlett, Twenty-second Regiment South Carolina
Volunteers.
Gapt. Joshua Jamison, Lients. L. S. Hill, H. H. Sally, and J. B.
Cobb, valuable service and gallant conduct in sustaining the battery at
Clarke's house.
In the report of Col. C. H. Stevens, Twenty-fourth Regiment South Caro
lina Volunteers.
Lieutenant-Colonel Capers, Twenty-fourth Regiment South Carolina
Volunteers, gallant conduct in defending advanced battery of 24-pounder
guns. Captain Tompkins, Company K, and Lieutenant Beekham, Com
pany G, gallant conduct in holding advanced position until ordered to
withdraw.
In the report of Lieut. Col. A. D. Smith, Smith's battalion South Caro
lina Volunteers.
Lieutenant Campbell, Company F, gallant conduct in personally re
pulsing an assaulting party on the left of the battery at Secessionville.
Capt. W. H. Eyan, valuable service in battery at Secessionville. Lieut.
George Brown, Company F, and Lieut. Alexander A. Allemong, Irish
Volunteers, valuable service in carrying ammunition through lire of
artillery and infantry. Sergeant Hendricks, valuable service in carry
ing ammunition under heavy fire in battery at Secessionville. Private
Joseph Teunent, of the Calhouu Guard, gallant conduct on the left of
the battery at Secessionville.
In report of Lieut. Col. C. H. Simonton, Entaw Battalion.
Ldeutenant Blum, Washington Light Infantry, Company B, gallant
conduct ; advanced position on right tlank. Privates J. Campbell Mar
tin and T. Grange Simons, ]r., gallant conduct ; both severely wounded,
but still fought until exhausted and carried oft' (mentioned in report of
Lieutenant Blum).
In the report of Lieut. R. A. Blum, commanding detachment of Eutaw
Battalion.
Private J. Campbell Martin and T. Grange Simons, jr., gallant con
duct (mentioned in report of Colonel Simoutou).
GENERAL ORDERS. ) HDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF S. C. AND GA.,
No. 30. ] Charleston, IS. 6\, June 1<, 1
The major-general commanding the department tenders his heartfelt
90 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVI.
thanks to every officer and soldier of this command whose happy for
tune it was to participate in the glorious work of Monday, the
"lo'the gallant and indefatigable Col. T. G. Lamar and to the brave
men who so steadfastly supported him special thanks are due, and to
the noble dead a debt of deep and lasting gratitude.
By order of Major-General Pemberton :
J • -K« VV jrLJ-JJJ JL j
Assistant Adjutant- General.
No. 24.
Return of Casualties in the Confederate forces in tne engagement at Seces-
sionville, James Island, S. C., June 16, 1862.
[Compiled from the reports.]
Command.
Killed.
Wounded.
Captured
or missing.
Aggregate.
Remarks.
j
Enlisted men.
o
S
Enlisted men.
j
Enlisted men.
1
1
Lieut. B. A. Graham killed.
(No report.)
Captain Walker wounded.
Capt. Samuel J. Reed killed.
Capt. Henry C. "King and Lient.
John J. Edwards killed;
Lieut. Col. P. C. Gaillard and
Capts. Julius A. Blake, F. T.
Miles, and R. P. Smith, and
Lieuts. J. W. Axson, George
Brown, John Burke, and F.
R. Lynch wounded.
Lieut J. G. Beaty wounded.
Lieut. F.W. Andrews wounded.
Lieut. Richard W. Greer killed,
and Lieut. Samuel J. Burger
wounded.
51st Georgia
4th Louisiana Battalion .
1st South Carolina Ar
tillery. *
1st South Carolina Vol
unteers.
1st South Carolina Bat-
talion.t
9th Sonth Carolina Bat
talion.J
22d South Carolina
6
14
1
21
'39
28
55
1
42
29
18
12
18
1
1
1
2
8
3
10
8
1
22
22
8
1
2
2
iMtl, South Carolina
25th South Carolina
Total
"T
3
3
1
1
6
13
2
5
47
12
132
1
7
204
* Afterward known as 2d South Carolina Artillery.
t Called the Charleston Battalion.
t Smith's Pee Dee Battalion. N
No. 25.
Report of Brig. Gen. Nathan G. Evans, C. S. Army, commanding Second
Military District of South Carolina.
HDQRS. SECOND MILITARY DIST. SOUTH CAROLINA,
Adams Run, June 19, 1862.
MAJOR : I have the honor to submit the following report of the
the troops under my command on James Island on the 16th
iii.stant) i
CHAP. XXVI.] ENGAGEMENT AT SECESSIONVILLE, S. C. 91
On the afternoon of the 15th instant I was informed by Col T C
Lamar, First Artillery, that from his observation of the movement!
of the enemy he was convinced that Secessionville would doubtless
be attacked either on that night or on the morning of the 10th I
directed him, to hold his position ; that he would be re-enforced if neces
sary. At 2 o'clock on the morning of the 16th instant I received a
note from him informing me that the enemy were advancing. I re
paired to Clarke's house as soon as possible, where I arrived at 4 15
a. in., when I found Col. Johnson Hagood, First South Carolina Volun
teers, had, in his untiring vigilance, ordered three regiments to be in
readiness for an immediate attack, and had already sent a detachment
of Colonel Goodlett's regiment to the support of Colonel Lamar, watch
ing closely the movements of the enemy in front of Secessionville. I
determined to re-enforce the place to 2,000 strong, and immediately
ordered the Fourth Louisiana Battalion and Colonel Goodlett's regi
ment to repair at double-quick and report to Colonel Lamar at Seces
sionville. Lieutenant-Colonel McEnery with his battalion arrived just
in time to receive the second assault of the enemy and to materially
aid in repulsing him. At this time I received a message from Colonel
Hagood that the enemy were approaching on our right, and asking re-
enforcements. I directed him to attack the enemy, and immediately
ordered the Fifty-first Georgia and Colonel Williams' regiment to re
pair to his assistance.
The engagnient now became general on both wings. Col. C. H.
Stevens, who was with Colonel Hagood, seeing that the 24-pounder
battery near Clarke's house was not being fired, directed Lieutenant-
Colonel Capers, of his regiment, to take command of his battery and
to fire on the enemy, with which, though one piece was dismounted, he
did gallant and effective service, firing constantly into the flank of the
enemy. On the third assault of the enemy Lieutenant-Colonel Capers
was very successful with his piece, piercing the columns of the enemy
eleven times.
For the details of the gallant defense of the works at Secessionville
I would respectfully refer the major-general commanding to the official
reports of the immediate commanders, herewith submitted. Three
times did that heroic band repulse (often at the point of the bayonet)
a force thrice their strength, under the fire of their gunboats and four
stationary or land batteries.
About 10 o'clock the enemy retreated in great confusion, leaving
their dead and wounded on the field, a number lying in our trenches.
The loss of the enemy I have been unable to ascertain, but from what
I saw was at least 400 in killed, wounded, and prisoners,
the enemy immediately in front of the Secessionville works numb
168, while 42 wounded had been brought within the work.
I directed to be immediately buried and the wounded to be reinovet
the hospital. A considerable number of arms and accoutennenta wer
captured, a partial return of which will be found in the paper marked
G.* A full report of these arms I directed Captain McCreery, ordnance
officer, to make to the chief of ordnance in Charleston.
At 12 m. I received a note from the major-general commanding t a
he was at Brigadier- General Gist's headquarters, asking i
re-enforcements; that they were ready. I replied through mj «de-d£
camp that I thought the enemy was leaving- his position, *>
burning the houses he had first occupied. I then jomed_
* See Report No. 34, p. 104.
92 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVI.
general commanding and accompanied him to Secessionville to inspp ct
the works, as well as to ascertain our loss and the situation and condi
tion of our troops. After giving instructions relative to the wounded
and dead, also as to the arms captured, I returned to my headquarters,
and in accordance with instructions from the major-general command
ing ordered Col. P. H. Colquitt to repair with his regiment of Georgia
Volunteers as soon as possible and relieve Colonel Goodlett, in com
mand of Secessionville. Colonel Goodlett and his command were com
pletely worn down and exhausted. I would here state that I had be
fore directed Colonel Lamar to send all his exhausted men to the rear
on tbe arrival of Colonel Goodlett's command, which order left him but
150 men for duty. The troops at Secessiouville on the morning of the
Kith were much fatigued, as they had been engaged at work in the in-
trenchments during the entire night, and many were entirely worn-out
when the action commenced in the morning.
In reference to the action on our right I would respectfully refer for
particulars to the reports of Colonels Hagood and C. H. Stevens, here
with inclosed.
To my personal staff — First Lieut. W. H. Rogers, special aide-de
camp; Capts. E. E. Elliott, Samuel J. Corrie, and H. W. Carr — I am
much indebted for their untiring exertions in transmitting my orders
under lire. Asst. Surg. James Evans, of my staff, rendered material
aid to the wounded who were brought to the rear.
In conclusion, I would add that at 8 a. in. Brig. Gen. W. D. Smith
joined me at Clarke's house, where I directed him to take command of
the right wing and attack the enemy vigorously. I have received no
report from him, but take it for granted the reports of Colonels Hagood
and Stevens cover the action of the troops on the right.
To the dauntless Lamar and the troops under his command at the
commencement of the assault, the Charleston Battalion, Lieutenant-
Colonel Gaillard; Lieutenant-Colonel Smith's battalion, and companies
of Lamar's regiment engaged, the country, and South Carolina in par
ticular, owe a debt of gratitude and thanks which I know a grateful
people will acknowledge. For the gallant dead the country will ever
mourn. The intrepid Keed fell while cheering his men to victory, just
as the enemy were repulsed.
The reports herewith inclosed will give casualties on our side: 39
wounded, and 2 missing; total, 134.*
No report h*s been received from Lieutenant-Colonel Smith's battal-
ol 1 G Lamar's report will be forwarded as soon as received,
ith I also inclose you a copy of a letter from Brigadier-General
Stevens, commanding the Federal forces, and also of im reply
V ery respectfully, your obedient servant,
N. G. EVANS,
Brigadier- General. Commanding.
Maj. J. R, WADDY, Asst. Adjt. Gen., Charleston, 8. C.
[Inclosure Xo. 1.]
HDQRS. SECOND MILITARY DIST. OP SOUTH CAROLINA,
James Island, S. C.. June 18, 1862.
To the COMMANDING GENERAL
f the Confederate Forces on James Island, S C -
> action of the IGth it is known that some of our dead,
Report No. 24. The discrepancy is not explained by the records.
CHAP. XXVI.] ENGAGEMENT AT SECESSION VILLE, S. C. 03
and it is probable that a few of our wounded, were left at or in rear
of your works. In compliance with the urgent wishes of friends and
in accordance with my own convictions of propriety and of duty I
have determined to send a flag of truce to ascertain the names of 'the
killed and of the wounded, and if practicable to recover the bodies of
the dead. It will ever be my determination to conform In the most
ample manner to the usages of civilized and Christian warfare, and I
have seen to it that all of your men who are now prisoners in our
hands have been treated with courtesy and respect. I am glad to learn
that on your part the same course has been taken toward the prisoners
recently taken by you. The bearers of the flag I now send to you are
my division surgeon, Dr. George S. Kemble, and my aide-de-camp, Capt.
William T. Lusk, and I trust you will find it consistent with your duty
to extend to them every proper facility to procure information in regard
to their missing comrades, and if possible to recover the remains of the
dead. We shall be glad to send money and clothing to our prisoners
in your hands, and in return will see that all articles of necessity and
comfort which their friends desire to send safely reach your men' pris
oners with us.
I am, sir. very respectfully, your most obedient,
ISAAC I. STEVENS,
Brigadier- General, Commanding.
[Inclosure Xo. 2.1
HEADQUARTERS,
James Island, 8. C., June 18. 1802.
Brigadier-General STEVENS,
Commanding Federal Forces, &c. :
GENERAL : Your communication, through a flag of truce borne by
Dr. George S. Kemble and Capt. William T. Lusk, has just been re
ceived. and in reply thereto I have the honor to state that the infor
mation desired as to the names and condition of your wounded in the
engagement of the IGth instant will be cheerfully furnished you at an
early hour. The wounded having been sent to the city of Charleston
it is necessary to communicate with that place first.
state that your dead as far as found have been decently interred.
It has ever been the custom of our armies to conform to the '•
of civilized and Christian warfare," and our [your] wounded and pn
oners have been and are being well cared for in all respects.
I send this by my aide-de-camp, Capt, W. IL Kogers.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
£». (jr. l!jVAJN?>,
Brigadier-General, Commanding Confederate Forces.
No. 2G.
Report of Col. T. G. Lamar, First South Carolina Artillery*
GENERAL: Through the interposition of Providence it
duty to report to you that the forces under my ^
plete victory over the enemy on the 16th instant at
Xeck.
• It. appears that »p to AUa.
olina Artillery. Lamar's regiment became the
"**•
94 COASTS OF 8. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXYI.
On the morning of June 16 about 4 o'clock my pickets were driven
( Jolonela Gaillard and Smith, ordering them to move up their battalions
a once and to General Evans to inform him of the advance ot the foe,
and I then proceeded to my batteries, where I found a detachment at
each gun (having ordered such to be the case da}- and night). When I
arrived at the batteries I found that the enemy were within 700 yards,
in line of battle, and advancing on me at the double-quick. I ordered
the 8-inch columbiad to be loaded with grape, which order was promptly
obeyed by Lieut. J. W. Moseley, of Company I, whom I found at the
battery on my arrival. I mounted the chassis and pointed the gun
myself. In the mean time Sergt. James M. Baggott, of Captain Reed's
company (B), fired upon the advancing line from the rifled 24-pounder
gnu to the left of the columbiad, and of which he was the gunner.
My reason for pointing the columbiad myself was to fire at the center
of the line and thereby break it, in order to cause confusion and delay,
so that I might get my infantry into position previous to their reaching
my lines. The shot had the desired effect ; they immediately flanked
to the right and left. I then ordered the columbiad to be loaded with
canister, which was promptly done, and I again pointed it. I then left
the battery to get my infantry into position. On leaving the battery I
met Lieut. J. B. Humbert, of Company I (under whose command the
columbiad was), within two or three paces of the battery, and directed
him to give them canister freely, which he did. I then ordered Capt.
T. Y. Simons to go to Lieutenant-Colonels Gaillard and Smith and tell
them to hurry up their battalions.
Lieutenant-Colonel Smith, of the Pee Dee Battalion, first attracted
my attention, whereupon I ordered him to take position on the left.
Although the enemy had then reached the left flank and were pouring
in a murderous fire on my men at the guns, Lieutenant-Colonel Smith
obeyed with promptness and soon drove them from their position. I
then ordered Lieutenant-Colonel Gaillard to take position on my right
and center, which was promptly done.
It was not long after getting my infantry into position that the enemy
were driven back in confusion. They were soon, however, re-enforced
and made another desperate charge, when I again drove them back ;
a third time they came, but only to meet with a most determined re
pulse. They then made a flank movement on my right, on the west
Enery, who also gallantly met them with a cheer.
At this time I was so much exhausted from loss of blood, from hav
ing been wounded in the head by a Minie ball on the second charge,
that the command was turned over to Lieutenant-Colonel Gaillard, and
afterward to Lieutenant-Colonel Wagner, although I never ceased to
give orders to my batteries.
We achieved a great victory, yet it was at a considerable loss both
in numbers and personal worth. Capt. Samuel J. Reed, of Barnwell
Strict, and commanding Company B, fell while gallantly fighting
I may safely say that his place cannot be filled. He was
everything that could be desired in an officer, and as brave, true, and
gallant a man as ever sacrificed his life on a field of battle. Peace to
his ashes.
CHAP. XXVI.] ENGAGEMENT AT SECESSTONVILLE, S. C. 05
Lieuts. J. W. Lancaster and William Johnson, of Company B who
were in command of the two rifled 24-poondera, did great execution
although not having grape or canister. Lieut. J. A. Bellinger of the
same company, who commanded the 18-pouuders, poured a murderous
fire into the approaching line, and in connection with the columbiad
did more than anything else for the fortunes of the day. These pi I-
laut officers deserve the thanks of the. country and I commend them to
your notice. Capt. G. I). Keitt and Lieutenants Humbert, W. S. Bar-
ton, T. P. Oliver, and Moseley all acted with great bravery and determi
nation.
I cannot close this report without bringing to further notice Senior
First Lieut. J. B. Humbert, of Company 1, who acted with so much
gallantry and determination in managing his gun, to which may be
mainly attributed the fortunes of the day, not only on account of its
caliber and weight of metal but to its well-directed fire and to the skill
with which it was managed, and also Second Lieuts. T. P. Oliver and
J. W. Moseley, of the same company, who rendered valuable assistance
to Lieutenant Humbert. First Lieut. Barton, of the same company,
displayed great skill and coolness in the management of the mortar,
which had considerable effect upon the enemy. Too much praise can
not be given to these gallant officers and to the detachments under their
command.
Capt. F. T. Miles, of the Calhouu Guard, Charleston Battalion, who
was stationed at my batteries during the previous night and whose
command was the first placed in position, has my sincere thanks. He
and his men fought like heroes and did all that men could do.
Lieut. Col. P. C. Gaillard and Maj. David Ramsay conducted them
selves with the utmost coolness and were as gallant as officers could be.
They both, as well as their entire command, acted with commendable
courage and determination and deserve the thanks of the country.
Lieut. Col. A. D. Smith, commanding the Pee Dee Battalion and a
most gallant officer, was the first that attracted my attention when the
infantry were coming up to the engagement, and to him I am indebted
for having relieved my left flank at a very critical time. I noticed that
several of his men were shot down before he could get into position, and
that, after the enemy had been driven back the first time and while they
were on their second charge, Lieutenant Colonel Smith went out upon
the field in front of the battery, gathered up as many of the small -arms
of the enemy as he could carry and gave them to his own men, whose
guns had refused to fire. I commend him to your favorable notice. His
command acted with great courage.
My thanks are also due to Major Hudson, who acted with decided
I must also speak in high terms of the actions of Lieut. J. B. Kitch-
ing, of Company H, who was in command of the Reed l>att<
Clarke's house, which battery consisted of two smooth-bore 2
guns, and also of my adjutant, Lieut. E J. Frederick ^^ ^^1^(t ^
the enemy's sharpshooters were concealed on my right flank m ei
marsh and were picking off my men, proceeded ^^>*
above batterv, when he and Lieutenant Kitchings soon dislodged
and poured well-directed shots into them as they re|reat^;
To Captain McCreery, of the Ordnance Department, a* well .
taiii Bonneau and Lieutenants Matthews and Hall, of ou pg
return my sincere thanks for their valuable services at
battery.
96 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVI
The casualties in the two companies of my regiment that were en
gaged are as follows.*
I estimate the loss of the enemy as near as I can at from 600 to 800;
.,11 of their dead are buried in front of my batteries; 107 were taken
prisoners: many wounded and who have since died, and I conjecture
that some were drowned. Large quantities of their wounded were
carried off by their ambulances. About 400 stand of small-arms fell
into our hands, together with one horse wounded in the mouth, and
numerous smaller articles.
For the casualties in the Charleston Battalion (Lieutenant-Colonel
Gaillard) and the Pee Dee Battalion (Lieutenant-Colonel Smith),* to-
-ether with their reports concerning the behavior of officers and men,
1 beg leave to refer you to the accompanying documents, marked re
spectively A and B.t
It is proper to state that the forces under my command did not
amount to more than 500 men until the arrival of the Louisiana Bat
talion, but this small force manfully stood their ground against an
assaulting force of from 1,000 to 5,000 men, among whom were the
picked regiments of the enemy, the Seventy-ninth New York (High
landers) and the Eighth Michigan, notwithstanding that they had for
fourteen days and nights been subjected to the most arduous duties.
On Sunday night, the 15th instant, I received orders from Brigadier-
General Evans to the effect that, although it might require superhuman
exertions, he expected me to take the guns off of the gunboat and place
them in battery on land. This was impossible unless I had had a force
and the means under my control that were necessary to move these guns.
I therefore had to have the gunboat moved up to Secessionville, where
there was a wharf. In the mean time I, with the two companies of my
own regiment, proceeded to throw up the earthworks of the batteries,
which was not completed until 3 o'clock the next morning. My men
were so much fatigued, not only from the night work but from a very
spirited engagement the day previous, which lasted several hours,
against the gunboats and land batteries of the enemy, that I allowed
them to lie down to rest. They had hardly fallen asleep when the
alarm was given, and this was the first time that any man was allowed
to sleep without his arms in his hands and at the spot that he would
have to use them during the time that I had been in command of the
post.
In conclusion, I would state that the great victory achieved on June
G over such a superior force of the enemy is owing entirely to the
patriotism, love of freedom, and indomitable courage of the officers and
men under my command. Every man did his duty.
[ have the honor to be, with sentiments of high regard, your obedient
servant,
T. G. LAMAB,
,, . ~ Colonel. Commanding Post.
Maj. Gen. JOHN C. PEMBERTON,
Comdg. Department of South Carolina and Georgia.
* Nominal list omitted. Losses tabulated in Report No. 24, p 90
Embodied m mclosures, pp. 88-89, to Pemberton's report.
CHAT. XXVI.] ENGAGEMENT AT SECESSION V1LLE, S. C. cj7
[Correction.]
\
HAMBURG, S. C., July 15. 1862.
Maj. Gen. J. 0. PEMBERTON, Commanding:
GENERAL: In my report to you I only estimated the los* of tlm
enemy to be from 600 to 800; I now find thaUt is nearer 1,000 to 1 500
I have the honor to be, your obedient servant,
r, ; 7 rr- T- G- LAMAR,
Colonel First Regiment Artillery, S. C. Volunteers.
No. 27.
Report of Maj. David Kamsay, First South Carolina (Charleston) Bat
talion.
SECESSIONVILLE, JAMES ISLAND, S. C.,
June 21, 1862.
COLONEL: I beg leave to forward to you a list of casualties in the
Charleston Battalion in the engagement of the 16th instant.*
It is hardly possible to enumerate the individual instances of valor
and good conduct. All did their duty, and the list of dead and wounded
will testify with what devotion. Out of about 100 men 40, besides the
2 of the field and staff, were killed or wounded. You are aware of the
distinguished conduct and skill of Lieutenant-Colonel Gaillard, in com
mand after you were wounded until the arrival of Lieutenant-Colonel
McEnery, and I only mention as peculiarly noticeable Lieutenant
Campbell, of Company F, who repulsed personally a storming party,
using a handspike until he seized a rifle; also Mr. Josiah Teunent,
of the Calhoun Guard, who felled no less than 6 of the enemy. Capt.
William Ryan's good service at a gun you can appreciate yourself.
Lieut. George Brown and Sergeant Hendricks, of Company F, deserve
mention for bringing ammunition through a heavy fire, and most par
ticularly "Lieut. Alexander A. Allenioug, of the Irish Volunteers, who
passed and repassed a severe fire of musketry and cannon several
times with, ammunition in his arms. I have mentioned those especially
noticeable, but can only repeat that I refrain from enumerating others
simply because it would be to furnish a roll of those engaged.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
DAVID RAMSAY,
Major , Commanding Charleston Battalion.
Col. T. G. LAMAR.
No. 28.
Report of Col. 8. D. Goodlett, Twenty-second South Carolina Infantry.
HDQRS. TWENTY-SECOND REGIMENT S. C. VOLS.,
Camp on James Island, S. C., June 18, II
GENERAL: I have the honor to make the following report of the cas
ualties in my command originating from the fight of the 1
* Nominal list omitted. Losses embodied ill Report No. 24, p. 90.
7 R R— VOL XIV
98 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVI.
In obedience to aii order from headquarters I detailed 100 picked
ii i en, 10 from each company, to go as a fatigue party about 1 a. m. of
the Kith instant to Secessiouville. I placed Capt. Joshua Jamison in
command of the detail, and Lieuts. L. S. Hill, H. H. Sally, and J. B.
( ' i.hl » \\ere (It-tailed as lieutenants, thus completing a command of one
eompaiiv. This detail arrived at Secessiouville in time to meet the first
1'iiM-t of the enemy. Captain Jamison and Lieutenants Hill, Sally, and
Cold) acted with great coolness, courage, and determination, and sus
tained and supported Captain Reed's battery to the last. The ranks of
this detail, as will be seen by Exhibit A,* accompanying this report,
were deei mated. Killed, 10; wounded, 7.
The balance of my command were ordered to support the battery to
the right of Secessionville, where a galling fire was opened upon us
from the enemy's artillery without damage. We were then ordered to
the support of Secessionville and arrived there at the close of the en
gagement.
1 am happy to state that my command throughout acted with cool
ness and determination, and that too much praise cannot be bestowed
upon Captain Jamison and the lieutenants and detail before alluded
tn. fur the manner in which they demeaned themselves in the fight.
1 would state one fact before bringing this report to a close, that
according to the numbers actively engaged the detail of 100 men made
from my command under Captain Jamison suffered more in proportion
than any of the forces engaged on our side.
I have the honor to be, sir, your obedient servant,
S. D. GOODLETT,
Colonel, Comdg. Twenty-second Regt., South Carolina Vols.
General EVANS, James Island, S. C.
No. 29.
Report of Col. Johnson Hagood, First South Carolina Infantry, command
ing advanced forces.
HEADQUARTERS ADVANCED FORCES,
James Island, S. <7., June 18, 1862.
f the troops under
Some days previously I had had the honor to be placed in command
* Not found.
CIIAI-. XXVI.] ENGAGEMENT AT SECESSIONVILLE, S. C. 99
the space from the Secessionville road to the marsh on the left of our
lines.
At 4.30 a, m. on the 16th I received a dispatch from Colonel Stevens
that the Secessionville pickets had been driven in and that the enemv
were advancing m force upon that position. I immediately ordered
under arms the portion of the First Kegiment not on picket and Colonel
feimonton's Eutaw Battalion, directing them to proceed down the Bat
tery Island road in front of our intrenchmeuts to the flank of the enemi '>
advance, and ordered Colonel McEnery's Louisiana Battalion to pro
ceed m rear by the bridge to Secessionville, delivering these orders in
person.
Proceeding in advance down the Battery Island road. I ordered for
ward one of the two 6-pouuders of Boyce's battery stationed at the
crossing of the Fort Johnson road, and arriving at the scene of action
found the enemy making their second advance upon the post at Seces
sionville. A thicket of felled trees ran parallel with their line of ad
vance and aJbout 400 yards west of it, on the edge of which next the
enemy Colonel Stevens had deployed about 100 men, who had been on
picket duty near that point. These men were from the companies of
Captains Tompkins, Pearson (Lieutenant Hamiter commanding), and
Gooding (Lieutenant Beckham commanding), of the Twenty-fourth Kegi
ment South Carolina Volunteers. The Battery Island road, so ob
structed as to be impassable by troops or vehicles, ran between this
felled thicket and a dense wood stretching toward Grimball's, on the
Stono. Simonton's battalion coming up was placed behind the felled
thicket in line of battle, its right resting near the Battery Island road,
and the detachment of the First Eegiment South Carolina Volunteers
was placed in reserve in the Battery Island road, throwing out a strong
line of skirmishers toward the Stono (which runs nearly parallel with
this road) to guard against an advance from that point. Boyce's piece,
under Lieutenant Jeter, was placed on Sim on ton's left at the extremity
of the felled thicket. The object of this disposition was chiefly defen
sive, as a general advance upon our lines seemed imminent. Three
regiments of infantry advanced in front of us, but beyond musket range,
to attack the west flank of the work at Secessionville, being supported
by a battery of field artillery near the Battery Island road, m front of
and beyond Simonton's right. Lieutenant Jeter was directed to open
upon these regiments, which he did with effect. I immediately sent to
the general commanding, asking to be supported in making an attack
upon the rear and flank of these regiments. When the permission to
attack and the assurance of support arrived the enemy had retreated.
In the mean while the fire of Jeter's piece drew upon us a heavy tire
from the enemy's field battery, which, from the sheltered position of
our troops, did but little damage, and four companies of the 1
Island Eegiment were sent in as skirmishers to seize the felled woods
and capture the piece. Stevens' skirmishers gallantly repelled them.
A portion of the enemy, however, penetrated to Simonton's line ot bat
tie, and one of his companies and a platoon of another were lor i
minutes engaged in driving them back. A few casualties in oth
tious of his line occurred from the random tire of the enemy engage
with our skirmishers, and one man in the detachment from t
TCpmmpnt, wa,a wnnmlpfl in the same way. The enemy in retiring \\ere
100 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVI.
captured, of whom 8 were wounded ; 68 small-arms, mostly Enfield rifles,
were abandoned by them and recovered by this command. Our loss
was 8 killed, 21 wounded, and 2 missing.
XpiH'mled is a detailed list of casualties.*
I have the honor to be, very ^pec^,^ HAGQOD|
Colonel First South Carolina Vols., Comdg. Advanced Forces.
Capt. MALLOEY P. KING,
Assistant Adjutant- General.
HEADQUARTERS JAMES ISLAND,
June 22, 1862.
Colonel HAGOOD,
Commanding Advanced Line, &c. :
COLONEL: In the absence of General Evans, first in command on the
16th instant, allow me to thank you for your distinguished services on
that day, and through you to thank Colonel Stevens and the other gal
lant officers and men under your command for their noble and gallant
service at that time. Please make known my views to your command.
Very respectfully, sir, your obedient servant,
WM. DUNCAN SMITH,
Brigadier- General, Commanding.
No. 30.
Report of Lieut. Col. J. McEnery, Fourth Louisiana Battalion.
SECESSIONVILLE, JAMES ISLAND, S. C.,
June 20, 1862.
CAPTAIN : I have the honor to submit the following report of the
part taken in the battle of the 16th instant near Secessionville by my
battalion :
A little after dawn on the morning of the 16th instant Colonel Ha-
good, commanding First Begirnent South Carolina Volunteers, came
in person to my quarters, about 2J miles distant from this place, and
ordered me to have my battalion under arms and march immediately
to the Secessionville battery, at which place an engagement with the
enemy was being had. With promptness the battalion was formed,
and the march, at double-quick, was begun in the direction of Seces
sionville. When arrived at the first cross-roads some little delay en
sued arising from my ignorance of the road leading to Secessionville.
After the lapse of a few moments 1 was assured as to the right road,
and instantly the battalion was moved off at double-quick for the scene
of action.
Arriving at Secessionville, I was informed that the enemy in force
were advancing on the right of the battery on the opposite side of the
marsh, directly up the marsh to the bridge. I hastene'd my command
at a run through an open ground to the woods on the marsh. In cross-
* Embodied in Report No, 24, p. 90. Nominal list omitted.
CHAP. XXVI.] ENGAGEMENT AT SECESSIONVILLE, 8. C. 101
ing this open marsh, and while placing the battalion in position on the
outer edge of the woods, it was exposed to a terrific fire from tin-
enemy's gunboats, siege battery, fixed batteries, and small-arms I
then ordered the men to advance in the skirt of woods, the better to
view the enemy and afford it protection from the incessant fire of the
enemy. At this point for half an hour the fire on both sides was
indeed terrific. Finally the enemy wavered, fell back, and then began
his precipitate retreat on the right and in front. The gallant La mar
being struck down, and being the senior officer present I caused an
incessant volley of grape and canister to be poured into the broken
and retreating columns of the enemy until they passed beyond view.
Colonel Goodlett, my senior officer, arriving about 12 m., assumed
command.
I cannot speak in terms of too high praise of the coolness, bravery,
and gallantry of the officers and men of my little command. I went
into the action with 250 men and succeeded in putting to route twice
that force of the enemy on the right. 1 think that this force of the
enemy would undoubtedly have completely flanked the battery but for
our timely arrival. The small band of brave men in the fort, exhausted
and broken down in their almost superhuman exertions in repelling
the foe in front, must have been unequal to the task of successfully
engaging the enemy in front and on the right.
It is impossible to arrive at a correct list of the slain and wounded of
the enemy, as in his retreat he bore off the field many of his dead and
wounded ; 168 of the enemy were buried on the field.
My battalion brought from the battle-field in front the following
arms and accouterments, which have been delivered to the ordnance
officer, viz :
Enfield rifles (in good condition) ............................................... 27
Enfield rifles (damaged) .......................................................
Rifled muskets (in good condition) .............................................
Springfield muskets (in good condition) ......................................
Springfield muskets (damaged) ...............................................
Total
Cartridge boxes ..............................................................
Saddles .......................................................................
These arms and accouterments were gathered on that part of the
field in front. Troops belonging to other commands, I undent
picked up a great many arms and accouterments on the height aero*
the marsh. I suppose the above arms are about one-third ol
number captured.
The following is a list of casualties in my battalion, to wit:
This report would have been made earlier, but now is the first
tunity since the battle that I have had to write it.
I am. captain, your obedient servant, -c,xrnn>v
J. MC.b.N liiK 1 ,
Lieutenant-Colonel, Comdg. Fourth Louisiana Battalion.
Capt. MALLOBY P. KING,
Assistant Adjutant- General. ^ __
'Embodied in Report No. 24, p. 90.
102 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND Mlt). ANt) EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVI.
Ko. 31.
Report of Col C. H. Stevens, Twenty-fourth South Carolina Infantry
HDQRS. TWENTY-FOURTH BEGIMENT S. 0. YOLS.,
James Island, 8. C., June 18, 1862.
COLONEL : In obedience to orders I beg to submit the following
report of the part taken by my regiment in the battle of Secessionville
on the morning of the 16th instant:
Seven companies of the Twenty-fourth Begiment South Carolina Vol
unteers, with six companies of First Eegiment South Carolina Volun
teers undone from the Forty-seventh Georgia Kegiment, constituted
the picket force placed under my command, and with which I went on
duty on Sunday, loth instant. This force covered our whole picket line
except that in' front of Secessionville, which was guarded by pickets
tiom the force stationed at that post. All remained quiet along the
line during the day and night, and at daylight I rode to Newtown Cut
with a view to visit and inspect the pickets. On reaching that point I
distinctly heard the guns of the enemy in front of Secessionville, and
started on my return to that point. On my way I encountered a cou
rier with the intelligence that the enemy had advanced in large force
to storm our works at Secessionville. This information I immediately
forwarded to yourself and to the headquarters of the brigadier-general
commanding, proceeding myself to the front to verify the statement. In
passing I took portions of four companies of my regiment, which hap
pened to be on duty in that vicinity, and moved them in the direction
of the abatis of felled timber extending on the left of the Battery Island
road. I ordered Captain Wever (Company I) to occupy this abatis to
prevent the enemy from penetrating it with his skirmishers. The de
tachment of my other three companies, viz, Company D, Captain Good-
ing ; Company G, Lieutenant Hamiter, and Company K, Captain Tomp-
kins, numbering less than 100 men, were posted in a heavy thicket
extending from the abatis to the marsh on the left. On taking this
position I found the enemy drawn up in line of battle at Hill's houses,
to iny right and front. With my weak force this position could only
be defensive, and I rode back to ask for artillery and support, which
were brought up by you.
As all of the subsequent events passed under your own observation
it is unnecessary to report them, except that I would especially mention
Captain Tompkins, Co. K, Lieutenant Beckham, of Co. G, and the de
tachments from these two companies, who held their position gallantly
m the front and did excellent service until ordered to withdraw.
Lieutenant-Colonel Capers, my second in command, having been
by you to order fire to be opened from the new 24-pounder bat-
idvance of our lines, was retained by General Evans at that
post, a d directed the fire of the battery with his usual gallantry and
1Cy\i, ^J?n Hammond remained at his post in charge of the
picket on the Gill road and Newtown Cut. After the enemy had left
I returned to my picket duties until regularly relieved.
1 append a list of the casualties in my own regiment *
L have the honor to be, very respectfully,
C. H. STEVENS,
Colonel Twenty-fourth South Carolina Volunteer Regiment.
Col. JOHNSON HAGOOD,
Advanced Forces.
• Nominal list omitted. Losses embodieHn^Report No. 24, p. 90.
CHAP. XXVI.] ENGAGEMENT AT SECESSIONVILLE, 8. C. 103
Ko. 32.
Report of Lieut. Col. Charles H. Simonton, Twenty-fifth South Carolina
Infantry.
HDQRS. EUTAW BEGIMENT, TWENTY-FIFTH S. C. VOLS.,
June 17, 1862.
CAPTAIN: I have the honor to make the following report of the
results of the engagement of yesterday to my regiment :
Having been ordered to move at reveille, I formed and marched my
regiment to the field in rear of Hill's house, and having then reported
to Colonel Hagood, was placed by him in position behind a hedge.
Upon being placed in position I was informed that Colonel Stevens
had a portion of his regiment deployed as skirmishers in our front, and
was ordered to take all precautions to prevent our men firing into them.
Shortly after we took position we were put under a heavy lire of small-
arms, directed principally against my left wing. In obedience to orders
I kept iny men under restraint and prevented any firing until feeling
satisfied that the enemy were actually in my front. I then gave orders
to fire. After a brisk fire of about a half hour they were driven ofl'.
During their retreat we were exposed to an enfilading tire from a field
battery on our flank. Below I append a list of casualties.*
The behavior of my regiment was such as I could have wished. Lieu
tenant Blum, of the Washington Light Infantry, Company B, whose
company was chiefly under fire, distinguished himself by his extreme
coolness, encouraging his men. He rendered most efficient aid in re
straining their natural desire to return the fire of the enemy. The con
duct of his men could not be surpassed. They were under my eye all
the time, Two of his men, Privates J. Campbell Martin and T. Grange
Simons, jr., the first wounded in the head and leg, and the other in
three places, with his clothing riddled, continued to fire until taken
from the field.
A large number of arms and accouterments were recovered from the
field and several prisoners were captured. With this 1 inclose the
reports of Lieutenant Blum and of Captain Adger, quartermaster. The
arms and accouterments are in the hands of the latter, subject to your
order.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
CHAKLES H. SIMONTOX,
Lieutenant- Colonel, Commanding.
Capt. JOSEPH WALKER,
Acting Assistant Adjutant- General.
No. 33.
Report of Lieut. R. A. Blum, Twenty-fifth South Carolina Infantry.
CAMP PETTIGREW, JAMES ISLAND, S. C.,
June 10, IbOJ.
I beg leave to report the following casualties and incidents of this
morning's engagement :
* NominaTlisToraitt^driosse^inb^died in Report No. 24, p. 9
104 COASTS'OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVL
Shortly after our regiment had taken its position my company was
subjected to repeated volleys discharged from the thicket immediately
in our front, which we had been informed was held by a company from
Colonel Stevens' regiment. On this account, in obedience to orders
from Colonel LLagood, we did not reply for several minutes.
It is impossible for me to single out individual instances when all
behaved with the utmost coolness and- bravery, but I feel that it is but
just to n-port the conduct of John Campbell Martin and T. Grange
Simons, jr., as worthy of special notice. After being severely wounded
they persisted in reloading and firing until overcome by exhaustion.*
1 am, yours, respectfully, ^ ^ B
Lieutenant, Comdg. W. L. J., Company B, Eutaw Regiment.
Lieutenant-Colonel SIMONTON.
No. 34.
Report of Capt. J. E. Adger, Twenty-fifth South Carolina Infantry.
CAMP PETTIGEEW, JAMES ISLAND, S. C.,
June 16, 1862.
COLONEL : I beg leave to make the following return of arms and
accouterments, &c., recovered from the field during and subsequent to
this morning's engagement with the enemy :
Enfield rifles (in order) 54
F.nlu'ld ritles (needing repair) 3
Entield rifles (not repairable) 3
Miuie rifles ^in order) 8
Total number of arms .
Cartridge boxes 44
Cartridge boxes and belts 26
Total 70
Waist belts 28
Waist belts (clasps wanting) ...... I.I ..IIIII. II". .....IIII.. 9
Total 37
Bayonet scabbards 38
Cap boxes 24
Cartridges (Enfield) ...... IIIII'IIIIIII-IIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIII! 950
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
J. E. ADGEE,
Quartermaster and Acting Ordnance Officer, Eutaw Regt.
Lieutenant-Colonel SIMONTON,
Comdg. Eutaw Regiment (Twenty-fifth S. C. Volunteers).
* Nominal list omitted. Losses embodied in Report No. 24, p. 90.
CHAP. XXVI.] ENGAGEMENT AT SIMMONS' BLUFF, S. C. 1Q5
JUNE 21, 1862.— Engagement at Simmons' Bluff, S. C.
Report of Capt. Edward L. ParXer, C. 8. Army, Marion (S. C.) Artillery*
HDQRS. SECOND MILITARY DIST. SOUTH CAROLINA
Adams Run, June 23, 18(52.
Maj. J. E. WADDY,
Assistant Adjutant- General, Charleston, 8. C.:
MAJOR : Herewith I have the honor to inclose the official report of
Captain Parker, Marion Artillery, of the affair with the gunboats at
Simmons' Bluff on the 21st instant. Owing to the absence of the re-i-
ment of Colonel McCullough the rifle pits were not complete when the
attack commenced. I am having them arranged and have strengthened
the position with two additional companies. I would here state that I
will forward the report of the engagement on James Island on the
16th instant as soon as I can collect the reports of the immediate com
manders.
Yery respectfully, your obedient servant,
ST. G. EVANS,
Brigadier- General.
[Inclosure.]
SIMMONS' BLUFF, S. C., June 21, 1862.
CAPTAIN: I have the honor to report that at about 11 a. m. this day
the alarm was given of two gunboats approaching. I was at Colonel
Whaling's place, on a visit to pickets there stationed, and caused the
alarm to be given also from that point. My guns were in the road and
wagons parked before I could get to camp, nothing having been lost.
The boats approached rapidly — one large three-masted propeller and a
side-Avheel, probably the Planter.
I ordered the companies of Captains McJunkin and Barnett into the
incomplete pits in process of construction for riflemen, directing them
if driven from the pits to fall back and skirmish (if they lauded) along
the road and in the corn back of Simmons' negro settlement. The bat
tery I ordered to the bluff, where I am erecting batteries for my guns
about 800 yards above the point. The road through the corn was so
miry from the recent rains that my guns could not use them, and I had
to take a circuit and approach it from the north. When we cleared the
road we found the large vessels just below the point, the Planter on
the south side of said point. To reach the bluff' I would have had my
battery exposed to fire from both ships for 400 or 500 yards, and theu
would only be able to reach the large vessel at the range before named,
say 800 yards. I deemed it wiser, as I could inflict no injury, to run
no risk.
The fire of shot, shell, case-shot, and canister was very heavy from
both ships. I kept my men and guns under cover, anticipating a land
ing. The riflemen kept up a continuous and steady tire until their posi
tion was enfiladed, when they retreated to the road, straggling far alu
of their officers up it. I halted them and deployed them to the left
road, directing a gradual advance, under cover of woods, hedges a
corn, to the negro settlement The men were very much fatigued $
I could not get the movement properly executed. A few
* The report of Lient. A. C. Rhine!, U. S. Navy, appears in the Annual Report of the
Secretary of the Navy, December 1, 1862.
106 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVI.
landed from the Planter, I think, who got as far as the infantry tents
and burned them. My pieces I had withdrawn to the causeway, as
both boats, shelling vigorously, moved up as though to land above our
position.
OIK- of the scouts reported to Major O'Neill that the enemy had
landed and were marching up. My guns were then thrown forward,
and I detailed scouts from my own men, who proceeded to a point be
tween the two camps, under charge of Lieutenant Lowndes. Two of my
pieces were to take position near the bluff on left of road, two in our
drill ground on the right; Colonel McOullough, who had arrived, to
advance under cover of the hedges to the point where my scouts were
with four companies; Major O'Neill, with the other companies, to ad
vance through the corn — and thus I hoped, had they landed, to attack
them in front and flank. They, however, had not landed any force, and
I can only conjecture that they landed at all. Had the original inten
tion been carried out, and the riflemen on leaving the pits occupied the
road and the corn, I think we might have been able to bring our guns
into play ; as it was, 1 thought my best plan was to keep prepared for
what I expected — a landing. Before we could reach the boats, how
ever, immediately after burning the tents they turned and went rapidly
off. The buildings at the point were much injured by shell, grape, can
ister, &c., and some very narrow escapes were run.
The conduct of the men while in the pits was very good, and they
all say that cries were heard after several shots. The men kept very
close on deck. Had rifle pits been dug all along the banks I believe
that the enemy would have suffered very much; as it was, it was very
difficult to rally .the men after leaving the pits. Very little time was
given for a proper disposition of the troops. I do not think that over
twenty minutes elapsed between the alarm and the first shot. Some
system of signals is necessary by which we may be notified of the en
trance of a vessel into the river while out of our sight. The lookout on
the mast of the steamer enables her to direct her fire at objects not seen
trom her hull. Captains McJunkin's and Barnett's companies have both
some baggage.
I have no casualties to report. One shot passed through my com-
1 1 s>>:irv rr»nin l\n f f\n-n ^4-n-rt^.r, -^ j. _x« • j_ -r • , r •*- " .
tageously used.
Respectfully, your obedient servant,
EDWARD L. PARKER,
Captain Marion Artillery, Commanding Post.
Capt. A. L. EVANS, 0. S. Army,
Assistant Adjutant- General, &c., Adams Run.
CHAP. XXVI.] EVACUATION OF JAMES ISLAND, S. C. 10?
JUNE 28-JULY 7, 1862,-Evacuation of James Island, S. C.
REPORTS.
No. 1.— Maj. Gen. David Hunter, U. S. Army, commanding Department of the South
No. 2.— Brig. Gen. Horatio G. Wright, U. S. Army.
No. 1.
Report of Maj. Gen. David Hunter, U. S. Army, commanding Department
of the South.
HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE SOUTH
Hilton Head, Port Royal, 8. C., July 10, 1862.
SIR : I have the honor to report that the delicate operation of with
drawing our forces from James Island, the reasons for which step were
given in iny letter dated the 27th ultimo,* has been successfully accom
plished, without injury to a single man or the abandonment of one pound
of public property. The main portion of our forces are now aggregated
at this point, North Edisto, and Beaufort, all possible precautions being
taken to secure their health and comfort, and with results fully meeting
my most sanguine expectations. No epidemic fevers have yet appeared
in any portion of the command, though the great number of men pros
trated on James Island by bilious and low typhoid fevers and the in
creasing sick list, attributed to malarial debility, gave warning of what
we might have expected had the occupation of our position there been
continued.
I have concluded to retain for the present at Beaufort the 2,000 troops
under Brig. Gen. J. M. Brannan, originally brought up from Key West
and the Tortugas to take part in the attack on Charleston. Garrisons
of abundant strength werejeft behind under my direction by Brigadier-
General Brannau, and as the health of the troops retained at Beaufort
stood undoubtedly in need of renovation, and as there are better oppor
tunities for regimental and more especially brigade drill at that point,
the advantages of this course are obvious. Should there be any serious
threatening of foreign intervention, however, these troops will be im
mediately returned to their respective stations ; but in the absence of
any pressing cause for their return to Key West and the Tortugas the
climate of Beaufort, salubrious par excellence, recommends it during
the sickly months now approaching. It is, moreover, a central point,
from which, if necessary, the troops can be transported in any direction
with the facilities of water transit.
I have the honor to be, very respectfully,
D. HUNTER,
Major- General, Commanding.
Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War.
No. 2.
Reports of Brig. Gen. Horatio G. Wright, U. S. Army.
HEADQUARTERS U. S. FORCES,
James Island, S. C., June 29, 1862.
MAJOR : I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of the letter
*Seep. 43. *
108 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVI.
of the major-general commanding, dated the 27th instant,* instructing
me to abandon James Island with the forces under my command, and
in obedience thereto have already sent off such of the sick as could not
march with their regiments, and have been to-day shipping stores and
the horses of the cavalry, which will be the first of the command to
leave. I hope to be able to accomplish the whole movement success
fully, removing everything without loss. The movement to Legareville,
with the balance of the command left after the first detachment is sent
away, will occasion much labor and I fear loss of time, as the difficulties
of approach to that place by steamers are serious. It might be well to
leave it to my judgment whether to make the transfer or not. On this
point I would ask early instructions.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
H. G. WEIGHT,
Brigadier- General, Commanding.
Maj. CHARLES G. HALPINE,
Asst. Adjt. Gen., Hdqrs. Dept., Hilton Head, S. G.
HEADQUARTERS TJ. S. FORCES,
James Island, S. G., July 4, 1862.
GENERAL : I have the honor to report that two regiments of the Sec
ond Brigade of General Stevens' division — the One hundredth Pennsyl
vania Regiment and the Seventy- ninth New York Eegiment — under
their brigade confmander, Colonel Leasure, will leave this morning for
Iton Head, and that the third regiment of that brigade will be sent
osmopolitan, now expected momentarily, as soon as she arrives.
Rockwell's battery also goes to-day. I am very much embarrassed in
the embarkation of the troops for the want of a sufficiency of transpor
tation, and would most urgently request that everything that can be
spared in the way of steamers which can enter the Stono be sent here
The Staten Islander and the Mayflower would help me out
much. So far the weather has been such as to preclude the use
the \ anderbilt, as it has been impossible to transfer troops to her
ule, and the propellers Potomac and Locust Point have been of no
They will be sent down as soon as orders can be got to them,
and as their draught is not too great for the waters about Hilton Head
for two or three **• take the lace of
Very respectfully, general, your obedient servant,
H. G. WEIGHT,
Maj. Gen. D. HUNTER, Brigadier -General, Commanding.
Comdg. Department of the South, Hilton Head, S. G.
HEADQUARTERS U. S. FORCES,
r__ James Island, 8. G., July 5, 1862.
leaves for filter ll^l^T" tOTP°rt tbat the steamer Cosmopolitan
he Fortv six h Vow V i { a'-ln' t(Mlay with four Pieces of artillery,
^York^egiment, belonging to Second Brigade, of
"See Inclosuro No. 5 to Hm^eT's report of June 27, p. 47.
CHAP. XXVI.] EVACUATION OF JAMES ISLAND, S. C. 1Q9
Stevens' division, Colonel Leasure commanding, and the Eighth Miclii
gan,of the First Brigade, Colonel Fenton commanding. Therfnow
remain here two regiments of Fenton's brigade (the Seventh Coin, M-
icut and Twenty-eighth Massachusetts) and the two regiments B
nated for Edisto (Sixth Connecticut and Ninety-seventh Pennsyl V! , .in
and four pieces of artillery, with quartermaster's horses, wa«ons am!
balances, and some stores. If the two steamers for which" I wrote
urgently yesterday are sent and the schooners capable of earn in-
horses and wagons are returned we shall be able to get off everything
by the next move, and I think successfully. So far everything lias
been quiet along the lines, though the enemy has reoceupied as we
have withdrawn.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
H. G. WRIGHT,
Brigadier- Gen era I, Commanding.
Maj. Gen. D. HUNTER,
Comdg. Department' of the South, Hilton Head, S. C.
HEADQUARTERS U. S. FORCES,
James Island, S. C., July 6, 1862.
MAJOR : I have the honor to report, for the information of the imijor-
general commanding, that the Ben Be Ford leaves this morning with
quartermaster's stores, horses, and the Twenty-eighth Massachusetts
Regiment, which regiment belongs to the brigade of Colonel Fenton.
Our present position is a strong one, and I do not anticipate any trou
ble from the enemy ; yet I am of course anxious to get off the remainder
of the command with the least possible delay. I would therefore most
urgently request that the Ben De Ford be discharged to-night and sent,
back to-morrow morning, and that the Cosmopolitan and Delaware, if
not already started, be sent here at the same time.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
H. G. WRIGHT,
Brigadier- General, Commanding.
Maj. CHARLES G. H ALPINE,
A. A. G., Dept. of the South, Hilton Head, S. C.
HEADQUARTERS U. S. FORCES,
Edisto Island, S. C., July 9, 1862.
MAJOR : I have the honor to report that I arrived here about 8 p. in.
on the evening of the 7th instant with the Sixth and Seventh Conned
cut and Ninety-seventh Pennsylvania Regiments, and that all
were landed by 6 a. m. the next morning.
For the present I have established the camps in the vicn
landing near the place marked on the Coast Survey map as the
of Pines House," deeming this as the most eligible position Of* account
of the facilities for receiving supplies, as well as lor the health o
command. A position at Eddings ville or on Botany Bay I
diatelv upon the sea shore, would no doubt be more health y and co
fortable; but as military positions they are less Desirable
Island, as you are probably aware, bears the reputation o
unhealthy in summer, and it was the custom of the resident plj
110 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVI.
abandon it as early as June and go to Eddiugsville, which is a small
collection of summer houses upon a sand ridge immediately upon the
sea; yet so far there is nothing to indicate that it is not as healthy as
any oY the other islands along the coast. The actual sickly season has
not. however, I presume, fairly been entered upon.
If the island is to be permanently occupied it would be a matter of
prnprr precaution to erect certain defenses and arm them wi(,h heavy
guns, with which we could act effectively upon any field batteries the
enemy might easily land for the purpose of attack. At present we
have to rely upon the artillery of the gunboats for this. The fast land
upon the opposite side of the Edisto Biver is about 2 miles distant, and
a battery of heavy guns would seriously annoy us. I should like a few
heavy guns to reply to such an attempt; but upon this point I will
write again in a day or two.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
H. G. WEIGHT,
Brigadier- General, Commanding.
Maj. CHARLES G. HALPINE,
A. A. G., Hdqrs. Dept. of the South, Hilton Head, 8. C.
JUNE 30-JULY 1, 1862.— Bombardment of Tampa, Fla.
REPORTS.
No. 1.— Brig. Gen. Joseph Finegan, C. S. Army, commanding Department of Middle
and East Florida.
No. 2.— Capt. J. W. Pearson, C. S. Army, Osceola Rangers.
No. 1.
Report of Brig. Gen. Joseph Finegan, C. 8. Army, commanding Depart
ment of Middle and East Florida.
HDQRS. DEPT. OF MIDDLE AND EAST FLORIDA,
Tallahassee, Fla., July 8, 1862.
to reporfc that the enem^ commenced
p - fT
the town of Tampa with one vessel on the 30th ultimo There
•id vW JPeaT 1'! and Chambers'J stationed at Tampa, and
rh otfpfi faH°llr batteries are replying deliberately and regu-
he F« dorMlf tCn f Cn°r?y' l aPPrehend ™ atteinpt on the part of
to capture Tampa. The force engaged (one vessel) for-
' re
ur n rtip t0 aDnov us for
ing their men on our coast.
servant',6 ' h°DOr tO **> genera1' with great resl>ect> W™ obedient
JOS. FINEGAN,
Brigadier- General, Commanding.
General S. COOPER,
Adjutant and Inspector General.
CHAP. XXVI.] BOMBARDMENT OF TAMPA, FLA. HI
No. 2.
Report of Capt. J. W. Pearson, C. S. Army, Osceola Rangers.
TAMPA BAY, FLA., July 2, 1862.
DEAR SIR: I MOW Lave the honor to report to you a spirited little
battle between my command and a Federal gunboat, commanded by
Captain Drake, in which God has given us a victory:
On Monday morning, June 30, the gunboat hove in sight in the bay
and after sounding and maneuvering to get a favorable position came
to anchor, turned her broadside to us and opened her ports, and then
started a launch, with a lieutenant and 20 men, bearing a flag of truce,
toward our shore. I immediately manned one of my boats with 18
men and met them in the bay, determined that they should not land
on my shore, and on meeting the boat the lieutenant in command re
ported he had been sent by Captain Drake to demand an unconditional
surrender of the town. My reply to him was that we did not under
stand the meaning of the word surrender; there was no such letter in
our book; we don't surrender. He then said they would commence
shelling the town at 6 o'clock, and I told him to pitch in. We then
gave three hearty cheers for the Southern Confederacy and the Federal
boat crew said nothing. Each party then returned to their respective
places to prepare for action. I had a part of my ammunition, &c., moved
1 mile in the rear and placed a guard over them. In the mean time
the women and children moved out a mile or so, and at 6 o'clock they
promptly opened fire on us with heavy shell and shot, and after two
shots from them we opened from our batteries, consisting of three
24-pounder cannon. Both parties then kept up a regular fire until 7
p. in., about one hour, when they lowered their flag and ceased to fire.
We fired three guns after they stopped. We fired twenty-two shots
and they fired twenty. They struck our batteries several times. They
threw rifle shot and 11-inch shell. This we know, as we now have one
of these shells in our yard that did not explode. They lay out of the
range of our guns (the vessel) by from 2J to 2£ miles from our batteries,
but we put our guns up to the utmost capacity. It is said by outsiders
who were close lookers-on that we struck their vessel.
I am proud to say that my men behaved handsomely on the occasion,
though some of them had never before fired a cannon. I had them
drilled in ten minutes so they were as old veterans, and I would here
mention the name of Captain Gettis in the highest terms. He took
command of one of the batteries manned by a green squad of my men
who had never fired a cannon before, his own company having left
few days previous for Tennessee. Captain Gettis acted with that co<
firmness which characterizes the man in all his various spheres at 1
bar and legislative councils; and I would also remark here that the
citizens behaved handsomely, showing loyalty to the backbone.
As I before remarked, the firing ceased at 7 p. in., each party reman
ing on the field ready to renew the conflict at daylight.
The next morning at daylight I repaired to my batteries, but he
vessel seemed to be repairing damages or fixing something an
get ready for action until about 10 a. m., at which time she open,
on us with heavy shell and shot and kept it up until 12 °'do^- "
hours. We kept our ground, but did not fire in consequence oi their
being out of the range of our guns and ammunition too scan
stopped firing, for dinner I supposed, and wo
112 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVI
rested upon our ground until 2 o'clock, when I sent up our flag, ami it
seemed to iloat so proudly and beautifully, showing its broad side to
them, it made them furious. They then tired at us two powerful shots in
rapid succession, then weighed anchor, and in a few minutes showed
us her stern, and left us in peaceful possession of the town that they
had the evening before demanded unconditional surrender ot in such
furioxo-qwto manner.
Nobody hurt on our side; we cannot tell what damage was done to
them.
My son, the bearer of this, will answer you all questions you desire
to ask, as he was at one of the batteries.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
Captain Osceola Rangers and Commander of Post.
General JOSEPH FINEGAN, Tallahassee, Fla.
JULY 4, 1862.— Affair at Port Royal Ferry, S. C.
Report of Col W. S. Walker, C. S. Army, commanding Third Military
District.
HEADQUARTERS THIRD MILITARY DISTRICT,
McPhersonville, S. C., July 5, 1862.
MAJOR: I have the honor to report that on yesterday, July 4, 1 drove
in the enemy's pickets at Port Eoyal Ferry with a section of the Beau
fort Artillery, Capt. Stephen Elliott commanding, supported by 15 men
of Company I, Eleventh Regiment South Carolina Volunteers. One
piece was taken to the bulkhead, and under cover of its fire a boat,
manned with 12 men of the artillery, under command of Sergeant
Barn well, landed at the ferry-house with a barrel of turpentine. Inside
the house was found a barricade, from which they had annoyed niy
pickets with long-range rifles. The whole was burned to the ground.
A very large coil of rope, which it is supposed they had used in cross
ing the ferry the night previous to the attack on the railroad, was
brought away. At the conclusion of our operations, which lasted
about thirty minutes, the enemy brought up a 12-pounder and made
some rather wild firing, by which nobody was hurt.
All the movements were marked with coolness and precision.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
W. S. WALKER,
Colonel, Commanding.
Maj. J. R. WADDY, Assistant Adjutant- General.
JULY 9, 1862.— Expedition to Fenwick's Island, S. C.
Report of Maj. R. J. Jeffords, C. S. Army, Sixth South Carolina Bat
talion Cavalry.
HEADQUARTERS THIRD MILITARY DISTRICT,
McPhersonville, 8. C., July 1C, 1862.
Maj. J. R. WADDY,
Asst. Adjt. Gen., Dept. of South Carolina and Georgia:
MAJOR: I have the honor to inclose the report of operations by Maj.
CHAP. XXVI.] EXPEDITION TO FENWICK'S ISLAND, S. C. 113
E;^* Jftfords, commanding Sixth Battalion Cavalry, upon tlio
of the 9th July, made under my order, to effect a diversion in W f
General Lvans, who expected to attack the enemy at daylight oftte
same date Though nothing was effected, owing to the failure of t
attack by General Evans, I think it proper to "call your Zntion to
the characteristic activity and enterprise shown by Major Jeffords on
Tine occasion.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
W. S. WALKER,
Colonel, Commanding.
[Inclosure.]
HDQRS. SIXTH BATTALION CAVALRY, S. C. VOLS.,
Chisolmville, S. 0., July 9, 1802.
COLONEL: I beg to report that I left Chapman's Fort on evening of
the 7th with 130 commissioned and non-commissioned officers and pri
vates, and proceeded to Fenwick's Island, landing on rear in Mosquito
Creek. I sent out a small reconnaissance to Major Murray's planta
tion, they soon after returning, seeing no signs of the enemy. I pro
ceeded down the island to Seabrook's place, on Pon Pon Kiver. I
took from this point a general survey of Otter Island, Saint Helena
Sound, Pon Pon Eiver, and the neighborhood around. On Otter
Island I saw two of the enemy's flags flying, one very large; in mouth
of Ashepoo one sloop of war, and just at entrance of river one gunboat
(steam). There were no vessels on South Edisto or Pon Pon Kiver.
The boats in Ashepoo could not reach Pon Pon without passing through
Mosquito or going 25 miles around, so I delayed, awaiting attack of Gen
eral Evans, until after sunrise. Hearing no guns (which was a necessity,
should he have fired, as only the Pou 'Pon Eiver divided me) I returned
to boats, 3 miles off, first showing myself in force plainly to the sloop
of war in Ashepoo. She promptly had the long roll beaten, but as
tide was against her I apprehended no danger. I proceeded to Hutch-
inson's Island, found no enemy, they only visiting there from time to
time. I was informed by an old negro the enemy had removed most of
the young negroes to Hilton Head, stating they were unable to protect
them from our attacks where they wese. At flood tide the enemy ad
vanced up Ashepoo, shelling Hutchinson's Island, and coming up to
within 2 miles of Chapman's Fort. I immediately manned boats and
had them removed 25 miles up Ashepoo to Hey ward's plantation.
I am sorry the diversion has not met with some success. It was one
of great danger, as I could have been easily and completely cut off.
The fatigue was very severe, rowing heavily-laden boats near 100 miles
mostly against a swift current. The men behaved splendidly, and 1
only wish I had a better field for operation.
The gun with detachment arrived in good time; it was fired once
from boat with great ease.
Your obedient servant, E. j. JEFFORDS,
Major, Commanding.
Col. W. S. WALKER.
P. S.— I destroyed four boats, one fine one, on Hutchinsou's Island,
8 R R— YOL XIV
114 COASTS OF S. C., GA, AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [C|U*. XXVI.
JULY 9-10, 1862.— Demonstration against Pocotaligo, S. C.
Renorts of Maj. Gen. John C. Pemlerton, C. 8. Army, commanding Depart
ment of South Carolina and Georgia.
HDQRS. DEFT. OF SOUTH CAROLINA AND GEORGIA,
Charleston, 8. C., July 10, 1862.
Hon. GEORGE W. RANDOLPH,
Secretary of War :
I have just received the following dispatch from Colonel Walker,
commanding at Pocotaligo, S. C. :
Four flit-boat loads of troops landed at Port Eoyal Ferry ; two gunboats shelling;
troops continue lading. Enemy advancing with heavy ^^Sm^^'
Colonel, Commanding.
I have sent troops to meet them.
Major- General, Commanding.
CHARLESTON, S. C., July 10, 1862.
General S. COOPER,
Adjutant and Inspector General :
The following telegram just received from General Evans:
ADAMS RUN, S. C., July 10, 1862.
1 have reconnoitered the enemy on Edisto. He is in large force and still landing
troops and provisions. Yesterday he attacked my pickets on Dawho and Wadmalaw.
I have sent one regiment to the assistance of Colonel Walker at Pocotaligo.
T do not believe the enemy have many troops on the coast. Colonel
Walker reports they have recrossed at Port Royal Ferry. Pickets
generally exaggerate
J. C. PEMBERTON,
Major- General, Commanding.
AUGUST 13, 1862.— Engagement on Black Eiver, S. C.
Report of Maj. W. P. Emanuel, Fourth South Carolina Cavalry.
CAMP MARION,
Near Georgetown, 8. C., August 15, 1862.
GENERAL: I have the honor to report to you an engagement with
the Federals, which is as follows :
On Wednesday, the 13th instant, about noon, the enemy's gunboats
and a small tug made their appearance in Winyaw Bay, in front of
Georgetown, and anchored. They remained there until about 3 a. m.
of the 14th, when they moved off very cautiously up Black Eiver to
Mrs. Sparkman's plantation, some 20 miles above Georgetown. I
immediately took all the forces on the south side of the river and
arrived there as soon as possible. Before getting there, however, I
heard heavy firing in the direction of the section of artillery belonging
to Captain Ward's battery, but not being able to get any cominunica-
CHAP. XXVI.] AFFAIR ON PINCKNEY ISLAND, S. C. 115
tion with them, cannot as yet give you any of the particulars, but sup
posed they had an engagement, but owing to a deserter l.cin- with
them I fear they took the battery in the rear. I, with my foroefl <>n
this side, arrived just in time to see them land at Mrs. Bparkman's.
We then deployed our men on both sides, above aud below, and drove
them back to their boats, and when they tried to get oft' they round
the boat aground, and it took the tug about two hours to get it oil', we
giving them a pretty brisk fire from the bank all the while. She r;m
up the river a few hundred yards and turned to come back and g;m-
us a few shell and a heavy fire with their small-arms, which we re
turned as she passed by. I then threw the forces at every favorable
place on the river below aud fired on them as they passed.
We were engaged about five hours. I don't think the enemy's loss
could have been less then 50 killed and wounded. Our casualties are
2 wounded, both slightly. I will report from the other side as early as
possible.
I take great pleasure in saying that the troops with me on this side
acted with great promptness and bravery.
Yours, verv respectfully,
W. P. EMANUEL,
Major, Commanding.
General S. E. GIST.
AUGUST 21, 1862.— Affair on Pinckney Island, S. C.
No. i._Lieut. Col. John H. Jackson, Third New Hampshire Infantry.
No. 2.— Maj. Gen. John C. Pemberton, C. SvArmy, commanding Department of South
Carolina and Georgia.
No. 3.— Col. W. S. Walker, C. S. Army, commanding Third Military District.
No. 4.— Capt. Stephen Elliott, jr., Beaufort (S. C.) Artillery.
Ko. 1.
Reports of Lieut. Col. John H. Jaclcson, Third New Hampshire Infantry.
HEADQUARTERS,
Graham's Plantation, August 21, 18G2— 7.30 a. m.
SIR • I have just received reports from Pinckney Island that tbe com
pany posted on the eastern end of the island was **
-
retreat of the rebels.
Yours, with respect, JOHN H JACKSON,
Lieutenant- Colonel, Command* ng.
H. W. CARRUTHERS, Post Adjutant,
116 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [Cnxr. XXVI.
HDQRS. THIED NEW HAMPSHIRE VOLUNTEERS,
Graham's Plantation, Hilton Head, 8. C., Aug. 21, 18G2— 10.45.
SIR: Yours iii reply to iny communication of this morning is received.
After sending my report I learned from some of those who escaped
from the island that Lieutenant Wiggin was left on the island either
killed or wounded badly, and that a number of our men were left there
either killed or wounded.
Major Plimpton, with a detachment from each of the four companies
on the river, immediately lauded on Pinckney Island to investigate the
whole affair as far as possible and to recover those of our men who
were killed or wounded. Lieutenant Wiggin and 1 private, killed in
resisting the attack, have been sent to Seabrook's Wharf, with some
wounded men, who need the attendance of a surgeon. I gave Captain
Einmoiis orders to send to Hilton Head for a surgeon, which I suppose
lie has done ere this. I have a report at this moment from the captain
commanding the picket on the western end of the island, who has
visited his posts, and they report all quiet during the night; heard no
guns, cries, or anything of the kind, and also report that the enemy's
pickets present no unusual appearance. They have fired however on
our pickets a number of times this morning.
I shall be able to send 40 men to-night to occupy Company H's former
position. On Pinckney Island there are a large number of contrabands
and several well-cultivated plantations. The contrabands need pro
tection and the plantations are valuable for their produce.
I have been all over the island lately, and came to the conclusion that
it needs five or six companies on the island to prevent these raids on
our pickets. Please inform me if I shall continue to post pickets on
that end of the island.
Respectfully, yours,
JOHN H. JACKSON,
Commanding Third New Hampshire Volunteers.
HDQRS. THIRD NEW HAMPSHIRE VOLUNTEERS;
Hilton Head, S. C., September 1, 1862.
GENERAL: I have the honor to present the following report respect
ing an attack on the picket of this regiment stationed on Pinckney
Island. The attack took place just before daylight on the morning of
Thursday, August 21. The enemy landed on the island from six boats,
five of them landing above the pickets, and approached the camp from
the side where no guard was stationed and tired a volley before they
were discovered. The other boat came around the point to where one
of our pickets was stationed very near the camp. The sentinel chal
lenged twice and the lieutenant stepped from his tent and approached
him. He had gone but a short distance when a volley was fired from
the enemy, they being then in the camp.
Lieutenant Wiggin was found dead a short distance from his tent,
with eight or nine wounds on his body. The rebels remained but a
short time on the island, and took but little of the company property
and did not destroy the tents. The enemy have presented no unusual
I • -I f 7* ' *» V W* V*AV TT V IA11 V1.VV*. J.X1 V.1J. UC*Q
eu, a the other was severely wounded and may not recover.
A number of the rebels were either killed or wounded, according to
report of one of the corporals who was taken prisoner, but the
CHAP. XXVI.] AFFAIR ON PINCKNEY ISLAND, fi. C. 117
sqnad having him in charge was fired upon, probably by their own men
in the darkness, and the fire was returned. In the 'confusion the cor
poral escaped, the guard at his side being shot dead.
On the 6th of August 3 men of Company II deserted from Pinckney
Island, and a new disposition of the pickets was immediately made
and the utmost vigilance urged upon the lieutenant (Wiggin) com
manding that post. At different times two detachments of fresh men
were sent to Pinckney Island to prevent the old pickets from relaxing
their vigilance from great fatigue. At the time when the last detach
ment was sent I accompanied it, and examined all the picket posts, and
pointed out particularly the necessity of great vigilance at the very
point where the enemy landed on the 21st ultimo, and called the par
ticular attention of the lieutenant to the importance of the post.
Since the surprise of the company (H) I have learned that the lieu
tenant (most unaccountably to me) removed entirely the guard at that
post and the patrol from that point along the road to their camp. Lieu
tenant Wiggin proved himself a brave man at the battle on James
Island, June 16, and nothing previous to this unfortunate affair has
ever happened to shake my confidence in his ability as an officer.
It was a great lack of vigilance and judgment on his part, and his
too strong sense of security cost him the loss of his life and the regi
ment the loss of nearly an entire company. Every precaution was
taken on my part to prevent any surprise of that post.
With great respect, your obedient servant,
JOHN H. JACKSON,
Colonel, Commanding Third New Hampshire Volunteers.
Major-General HUNTER, Comdg. Department of the South.
No. 2.
Report of Maj. Gen. John C. Pemlerton, C. S. Army, commanding De
partment of South Carolina and Georgia.
HDQRS. DEPT. OF SOUTH CAROLINA AND GEORGIA,
Charleston, S. C., August 27. 1862.
General S. COOPER, Adjutant and Inspector General:
GENERAL: I have the honor to forward the reports of Col. W. S.
Walker and Cant. S. Elliott, Beaufort Light Artillery, of an expedition
against the enemy stationed on Pinckney Island. In forwarding these
reports I would respectfully call your attention to the gallantry and
good conduct of Captains S. Elliott and Mickler, who conducted the
expedition with complete success to our arms.
Very respectfully, y o pBMBBETO^
Major- General, Commanding.
No. 3.
Report of Col. W. S. Walker, C. S. Army, commanding Third Military
.District.
• HEADQUARTERS THIRD MILITARY DISTRICT
McPhersonville, S. C., August 22, 1
MAJOE: I have the honor to report that, from the reconnaissance c
118 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. (CHAP.
Lieutenant-Colonel Colcock, of the Second Battalion Cavalry, and Capt.
J. H. Mickler, Eleventh Infantry, and the information obtained from 3
deserters I was persuaded that a force of the eneray stationed in the
northeastern point of Pinckney Island, and believed not to exceed 100
men, could be surprised and captured. For this purpose I ordered
Capt. Stephen Elliott, of the Beaufort Artillery, with Capt. J. H. Mick
ler, Eleventh Infantry, to organize a boat expedition. I refer you to
the inclosed report of Captain Elliott for a clear and unreserved state
ment of his operations.
For a due understanding of the hazardous nature of the undertaking
it is necessary to state that a gunboat cruises in that immediate neigh
borhood, and that her masts were seen through the trees from the
enemy's encampment. There was not only the danger attending an
attack upon an enemy nearly equal in force, but the still greater risk
of being intercepted by the powerful batteries of a war steamer. The
conception of the expedition required daring and great rapidity of ex
ecution. A prolonged contest, even if successful, would have been
fatal in its results. I knew that the high qualities of the leaders and
their men would secure the prompt execution, and the result has amply
justified my confidence. While great credit is due to every officer and
man engaged, I must specially mention the conspicuous services of
Captains Elliott and Mickler. My position in front of an enemy oc
cupying islands and commanding their approach with powerful war
steamers, as well as the character of my force, consisting mainly of
cavalry armed with shot-guns, has disabled me from undertaking any
large operations against the enemy. I believe, however, I have suc
ceeded in impressing him with an exaggerated estimate of my force
by means of repeated attacks upon his pickets at various points, which
would seem to indicate the confidence and audacity of a strong and
threatening force.
I have been indebted to Capt. Stephen Elliott, who is a sailor as well
as a soldier, for the organization and largely for the execution of these
affairs. With great zeal and enterprise lie has contributed a sagacity
and prudence which have invariably secured success. His officers and
men have proved worthy of their commander. They have borne ex
posure, fatigue, and hunger with unshrinking courage and alacrity.
Captain Mickler has but recently been under my command, but in that
short time his boldness as a scout and his gallantry as a leader have
sustained his well-earned reputation. I would commend all the officers
and men engaged in the expedition to the most favorable notice of the
general commanding.
I inclose a copy of the only order of special interest among those cap-
I will send the prisoners to Charleston as soon as I have ex
amined them.
I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
W. S. WALKEE,
Colonel, Commanding.
Maj. J. K. WADDY, A. A. 0., Dept. of South Carolina and Georgia.
No. 4.
Report of Capt. Stephen Elliott, jr., Beaufort (S. C.) Artillery.
MCPHERSONVILLE, S. C., August 22, 1862.
: I have the honor to submit the following report of an expedi-
CHAP. XXVI.] AFFAIR ON PINCKNEY ISLAND, S. C. 119
tion to Piuckuey Island, organized in pursuance to orders from district
headquarters :
On the 18th, in company with Captain Mickler, I made a careful re
connaissance of the island and formed my plan of attack. I extended
orders to Captain Mickler to transport four boats from Morton's to Bear
Island and to join me on the evening of the 21st with 100 men. I also
directed that 50 men of the Beaufort Artillery, with muskets and a
4 pounder boat gun, should meet me at Boyd's Lauding on the 19th
in order to take six boats to Foot Point and Bear Island by the way of
Broad Eiver. The dispositions were successfully accomplished within
the required time.
On the 21st, at 3 a. m., I left Bear Island with detachments of Cap
tains Mickler's, Leadbetter's, and Wescoat's companies, under the com
mand of their captains, and of the Beaufort Artillery, under Lieuten
ant Stuart, amounting in all to 120 men, 3G of whom acted as oarsmen,
and remained in the boats, nine in number.
Passing down a creek 10 miles in length, I landed at early dawn on
Piuckuey Island, 300 yards in rear of the dwelling-house, which is sit
uated at the apex of an angle whose sides include [incline] about 40°.
Deploying rapidly across the base, I moved forward toward the point
over ground on one side open and on the other covered by a dense
thicket up to the camp of Company H, Third Regiment New Hamp
shire Volunteers, surprising them, killing, according to the most careful
estimate, 15 and capturing 3G, 4 of whom were wounded. Six were
seen to escape and 5 are known to have been absent. These, with
the previous numbers named, give 62; the number on their morning
report book. The lieutenant in command, the only officer present,
either escaped or was killed. There is good reason to believe the latter.
To avoid delay in so exposed a position I forbade the men to touch an
article, and we returned, bringing off the company records and two
line boats, having remained on the island fifteen minutes.
Eight of my men were wounded, G of them, I regret to say, by their
own men. This is the more provoking, as I earnestly and repeatedly
warned both officers and men against this very danger. Some pallia
tion may exist in the fact that some of the men were engaged for the
first time ; that the disaster sprung from an excess of zeal and courage,
and that there was not light enough to distinguish persons at any dis
tance. The mixture of small detachments too, at all times an element
of confusion, is especially so in surprises at night, when the necessity
of silence demands the most rigid discipline and uniformity of action.
I take pleasure in saying that the whole command acted with great
spirit and determination. It is a just tribute to a gallant officer to say
that Captain Mickler, by his ceaseless energy and labor for days am
nights previously, as well as by his valuable suggestions, contribute
in no small degree to the success of the enterprise, while by his im
petuous courage he rendered complete the surprise of the enemy.
Inclosed are lists of our wounded* and of the prisoners,
the books and papers captured.!
Very respectfully, your obedient^rva^ ^ ^
Captain Beaufort Artillery, Commanding Expedition.
Lieut. E. H. BARNWELL,
A. A. G., Third Military District, Department
L" tNot found.
* Nominal list shows 8 men wounded.
120 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVL
HDORS. DEPT. OF SOUTH CAROLINA AND GEORGIA,
Charleston, S. C., August 27, 1862.
Capt. S. ELLIOTT,
(Commanding Beaufort Artillery),
Captain MIGKLEB:
CAPTAIN: I am directed by the major-general commanding to ex-
press his sincere thanks to you and the troops under your command
for their gallant conduct in the late successful expedition against the
enemy on Pinckney Island. The designing and successful carrying
out of such expedition, as attested by the rout and complete annihila
tion of the enemy, prove irresistibly the foresight of the designer and
the gallantry of his troops. To you therefore and to your command
are tendered by the major-general commanding the thanks of the de
partment under his command.
E. W. MEM"MINGER,
Assistant Adjutant- General.
SEPTEMBER 10, 1862.— Skirmish on the Kilkenny River, S. C.
Congratulatory letter of J. R. Waddy, C. S. Army, Assistant Adjutant-
General, Department of South Carolina and Georgia.
HDQRS. DEPT. OF SOUTH CAROLINA AND GEORGIA,
Charleston, S. C., September 14, 1862.
Capt. J. L. MCALLISTER, H. M. Rifles :
CAPTAIN : I am instructed by the major-general commanding to say
to you that he is highly gratified at the gallant conduct of yourself and
the officers and men of your company engaged in the skirmish on the
Kilkenny River with the enemy on September 10, 1862. The major-
general commanding wishes you to return his heartfelt thanks to all
concerned for their gallantry on the occasion above referred to.
J. E. WADDY,
Assistant Adjutant- General.
SEPTEMBER 11, 1862.— Engagement at Saint John's Bluff, Fla.
Reports of Brig. Gen. Joseph Finegan, C. S. Army, commanding Depart
ment of Middle and East Florida.
BALDWIN, FLA., September 12, 1862.
I have placed a battery of six guns on Saint John's Bluff, which
was not discovered by the enemy until completed. Soon after it was
engaged for four and a half hours by two gunboats. We crippled one
of the boats and drove the other off. Loss on our side, 1 man killed
and 8 slightly wounded. I have sent down to-day four large guns to
strengthen the battery.
JOS. FINEGAN,
Brigadier -General, Commanding.
General S. COOPER.
CHAP. XXVI.] ENGAGEMENT AT ST. JOHN'S BLUFF, FLA. 121
HJDQRS. PROV. FORCES, DEPT. EAST AND MIDDLE FLA.,
Tallahassee, Fla., September 15, 1862.'
GENERAL: I have the honor to report that on Saturday morning,
the 6th instant, I moved from this place with a detachment of C-m-
tain Gamble's light artillery and two 12-pounder rille guns, under com-
mand of Lieutenant Villepigue, and two 8-inch howitzers, removed
from the battery at Saint Mark's. At Lake City I took with me two 3"-
pounder rille guns, previously sent there, and proceeded to the Saint
John's Eiver at Jacksonville. There I ordered a detachment of Cap
tain Dunham's company— the Milton Artillery— to accompany me to
work the two 32-pounder rifle guns and the two 8 inch howitzers, and
placed the whole force under the command of Captain Dunham. The
guns and necessary ammunition were crossed over the river at Jack
sonville in flats on Sunday, and the command proceeded down the east
bank of the Saint John's to Saint John's Bluff, about 5 miles from its
mouth, where two of the enemy's gunboats were lying at anchor.
The command was supported by the three companies of Captain Bre-
vard, by Captain Westcott's company of Partisan Eangers, by Captain
Stephens' company of cavalry, and by Captain Richard's company of
the First Florida Special Battalion, ordered to accompany it to guard
against a land attack. I remained with the expedition to give it my
personal supervision.
On Tuesday night [9th] the six guns were placed in position on Saint
John's Bluff, where the ammunition supplies and the whole force had
been concentrated without the observation of the enemy.
At 10 o'clock Wednesday morning, finding that our movement was
still undiscovered by the enemy, I went back to Jacksonville, to have
two 8-inch coluinbiads and two 8-inch howitzers, which I had brought
from the Upper Saint John's in contemplation of this movement, brought
down to the bluff, hoping to place them in position before we were dis
covered by the enemy.
On Wednesday, about 8 p. m., one of the gunboats approached
within three-fourths of a mile of the bluff, as was usual with her, and
threw nine shells on the point. Our men did not reply, but remained
quiet.
At daylight [llth] our guns opened on her, when she immediately
moved out of range $ not, however, before she was struck several times.
Signals were immediately made by her to the other gunboat and they
both moved up and attacked the batteries. The engagement continued
for four and a half hours, resulting in the crippling of one of the boats
and driving the other off. Little or no damage was done to the bat
teries, and the loss of life on our side was 1 man killed and *
wounded.
I regret to report that Capt. J. H. McEory, acting engineer officer,
who rendered valuable services, was seriously injured by an accidental
bayonet wound while sliding down an embankment.
Captain Dunham, in command, behaved with great coolness and
bravery, as did also Captain Eichard, commanding a section <i
heavy guns; Lieutenant Villepigue, commanding a section of Gambl
battery; Lieutenant Stevens, of Milton Artillery, commanding seel
of heavy guns, and Lieut, T. E. Buckman, ordnance officer, acting J
taut of the command, to whom much credit is due.
The large guns have been sent down, and I hope the battery is
time strong enough to resist any attack that may be made.
The officers report their several commands to have behavec
lantry while under fire.
122 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVL
Jf I can bold the Saint John's Bluff, as I hope to do, it will relieve the
valley of the Saint John's from the marauding incursions of the enemy
and afford a base for operations against Saint Augustine. Could I have
one regiment of infantry for service in East Florida I think I could take
Saint Augustine and hold it. I respectfully ask, if a regiment can be
spared, that it be ordered to report to me.
My assistant adjutant-general, Captain Call, who accompanied the
expedition, rendered efficient service throughout.
I have the honor to be, general, with great respect, your obedient
servant,
JOS. FINEGAN,
Brigadier- General, Commanding.
General S. COOPER,
Adjt. and Insp. Gen. C. S. Army, Richmond, Va.
l.j.nuorsement;.j
If General Beauregard can spare a regiment from Savannah tempo
rarily, request him to order it to report to General Finegan.
r\ TXT T>
SEPTEMBER 17, 1862.— Engagement at Saint John's Bluff, Fla.
Report of Brig. Gen. Joseph Finegan, C. S. Army.
LAKE CITY, FLA., September 19, 1862.
On the morning of the 17th five gunboats engaged the battery at
»t John s Blofi and continued the engagement for five hours, when
they retired. Our loss, 2 killed and 3 wounded. The enemy, having
iiled to pass our batteries, may attempt a laud attack. I am prepar
ing for it and will be there to-night. Can you send me one regiment
infantry from the coast of Georgia or Carolina? I need them very
much. Answer by telegraph.
JOS. FINEGAN,
Brigadier- General, Commanding.
General S. COOPER,
Adjutant and Inspector General.
SEPTEMBER 24, 1862.-Affair on Skull Creek, S. C.
Report of Col William B. Barton, Forty -eighth New Tor* Infantry *
HDQRS. U. S. FORCES ON THE SAVANNAH EIVER,
MA T™ • T T, * PulasU, Ga., September 25, 1862.
CHAP. XXV1 1 AFFAIR ON SKULL CREEK, S. C. 123
end of Pinckney Island, with 35 men of the Forty-eighth New York
Volunteers, under command of Lieutenant Miller, and a detachment
of Company G, Third Ehode Island Volunteer Artillery, in charge of
Lieutenant Fry, on board steamer Planter, I proceeded through Cali-
bogue Sound to Skull Creek, opposite the point referred to. When the
steamer was yet some 4 miles distant the greater portion of the party
retired, leaving only a picket of some 3 or 4 men, who fled in the great
est haste at the first discharge from our guns. I continued shelling
them until they were out of range, when, by my direction, Lieutenant
Miller, with his party, landed, securing saddles, bridles, holsters, pistols,
rifles, coats, blankets, ammunition, rations, &c., belonging to the picket
and bringing them on board the steamer. The picket at this point
were formerly very annoying to the troops on outpost duty on Hilton
Head, and were once or twice shelled out by direction of General Hun
ter and the buildings burned, since which they have appeared only at
intervals. I have reason to believe that if the tug Starlight was placed
at my disposal for a few days I could greatly injure, and perhaps de
stroy, two of the enemy's steamers which are daily anchored in the
Savannah Eiver just inside Four-Mile Point. These boats come down
from Savannah every morning at about 7 o'clock to convey laborers,
who are employed upon the obstructions in the river, come to anchor,
and lie without steam until 7 p. m. This I know from personal obser
vation and the statements of deserters, contrabands, &c., who have
recently come within our lines. With the Planter and Starlight I could
take a position out of range of the enemy's batteries and, I think, inflict
serious damage upon the boats referred to.
May I respectfully request that the Starlight be sent to report to me
temporarily, and that the permission of the major-general commanding
be given me to make the attempt as above ? With the same boats and
five companies of my own regiment (which would leave five companies
in the fort) I could greatly annoy the enemy by proceeding up the Bluff-
ton Eiver to the village of that name, and shelling a considerable rebel
force now encamped there and destroying extensive salt-works' 2 miles
above. Neither of these little expeditions would involve much, if any,
risk, and would necessitate the weakening of the garrison at Pulaski
for only a few hours, and that in the day-time. I would like very much
to undertake them. I send herewith several statements* received
from deserters, contrabands, &c., recently taken here, as well as the
deserters themselves. The report of the latter as to the number of
men in and around Savannah I deem entirely unreliable, as on being
closely questioned they fail to show more than from 3,00 5,00
troops there.
I have the honor to be, major, very respectfully, your <
SCrVant> WM. B. BAETO*,
Colonel Forty-eighth New York Volunteers, Comdg. Post.
Maj. W. P. PRENTICE,
Assistant Adjutant- General
* Not found.
124 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CIIAP. XXVL
SEPTEMBER 30-OCTOBER 3, 1862,— Reconnaissances on May and Sa
vannah Rivers, Ga.
No. 1.— Maj. Gen. Orrnsby M. Mitcliel, U. S. Army, commanding Department of the
South.
No. 2.— Col. William B. Barton, Forty-eighth New York Infantry.
No. 1.
Report of Maj. Gen. Ormsby M. Hitcliel, U. S. Army, commanding De
partment of the South.
HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE SOUTH,
Hilton Head, Port Royal, 8. C., October 5, 1862.
GENERAL: I have the honor to report the result of several minor
expeditious which have been ordered out in this department since my
last communication :
On the morning of the 30th ultimo Col. W. B. Barton, Forty-eighth
New York Volunteers, left Fort Pulaski with two transports, the
Planter and Starlight, which have been temporarily armed, and with a
force of about 500 Infantry from his own regiment. The object was to
surprise the enemy at Bluffton, on May Kiver, and to destroy extensive
salt-works in the vicinity of the town. The troops were successfully
lauded, but the enemy's pickets, giving intelligence of our approach,
the enemy hastily evacuated the place, but did not succeed in escaping
the shot and shell which were thrown into their ranks from two 30 and
two 20 pounder Parrott guns with which the Planter was armed. Very
extensive salt-works, the range of vats reaching more than a quarter of
a mile, with all their kettles and furnaces, were completely demolished,
while a most valuable reconnaissance was made of the region in the
direction of Hardeeville, on the Savannah and Charleston Railroad.
On the morning of the 1st [3d] instant Colonel Barton, in command
of the same steamers, moved from Fort Pulaski up the Savannah Eiver
to a point a short distance beyond the second Coast Survey station on
Elba Island. The object intended to be gained was to make a recon
naissance up the river in the direction of Fort Jackson, and to destroy,
if possible, some of the rebel steamers in use upon the obstructions
now being placed in the river. On reaching the point above indicated
tire was opened upon the steamers of the enemy, which got up steam
and retreated as rapidly as possible under cover of Fort Jackson.
After a short time three of the steamers again came out and attempted
to make fast to the iron-clad battery, which is anchored about 500 yards
below the fort. The rapidity and accuracy of our fire drove the boats
from the floating battery back to the fort, while some of our shells
reached and exploded in or over the fort itself. While our boats were
engaged in firing upon the steamers of the enemy a rebel battery, upon
Bluff, opened fire upon them, but a few shots from our long
guns silenced them, and, it is supposed, inflicted some damage upon a
regiment of infantry encamped near and in the earthwork. This re
connaissance seems to have produced great commotion in the city of
bavannah, as the house-tops were soon covered with a multitude of
spectators. From the facts developed by Colonel Barton I am inclined
to believe that a joint attack upon Savannah by the Army and Navy
would be crowned with success.
CHAP. XXVI.] MAY AND SAVANNAH RIVERS, GA. 125
At the request of Admiral DuPont, commanding the South Atlar
Blockading Squadron an expedition was formed-, under -the coin
of Bripdier-Genera Braniian, to co-operate with the Navy in the c"
ture ol a fort at Saint John's Bluff, about 7 miles above the m uth of
Saint John's Eiver. One of the transports engaged in the exTd ,
has just come in for a supply of coal, bringing a report from GeneA
Brannan announcing the capture of the fort, which was evacuated bv the
enemy after an attack by our gunboats. The rebels seemed to 1 ave left
the work in very great haste, as their guns were all mounted, loaded
and m good condition the ammunition served, and everything n excct
ent fighting order The magazine will be blown up and the works wi 11
be utterly destroyed. It is intended to bring off the guns, namelv, two
8-mch coluinbiads, two 8-inch guns, smooth bore, two 8-inch howitzers,
and two 4.6-inch rifled guns. The gunboats had proceeded up the river
some distance, and report a large amount of corn on the river, which
will be either brought away or destroyed.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
O. M. MITCHEL,
Major- General, Commanding.
Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLECK,
General-in-Chief, Washington, D. C.
Report of Col. William B. Barton, Forty-eighth New York Infantry.
HEADQUARTERS U. S. FORCES,
On the Savannah River, Fort Pulaski, Ga., October 4, 1862.
LIEUTENANT- COLONEL : I have the honor to report, for the information
of the general commanding, that in accordance with the permission
granted in his communication of September 2G I left this post at 1
o'clock on the morning of the 30th ultimo, with armed steamers Planter
and Starlight, having on board five companies Forty-eighth New York-
State Volunteers, under command of Oapt. D. W. Strickland, and a
detachment of Company G, Third Ehode Island Artillery, in charge of
Capt. John H. Gould. We arrived at the mouth of May— common ly
called Bluffton — Eiver, about three-quarters of an hour before daybreak,
and proceeded as rapidly as possible up the river. My original design
was to land the infantry "force at a point H miles this side of Bluffton,'
and by making a rapid march gain a point in the rear of the village to
which all the roads leading from it converge, and thus cutting off a
squadron of cavalry I knew to be stationed there. Unfortunately, how.
ever, when within half a mile of this point, in the thick fog which pre
vailed the Planter ran aground, and the noise of the engines in getting
her off' revealed us to the enemy's pickets, and rendered anything like
a surprise impossible. I however landed the troops as soon after the
steamer got afloat as possible, and directing Captain Strickland to
skirmish and scout the country thoroughly and to keep up constant
communication with me through his signal officer, proceeded with the
steamers directly up to Bluffton, keeping some half a mile ahead
the troops on shore. This village is one of the most ddensible ]
sible against an attack by water, as the river makes, a sharp t
short distance from it and the bluffs entirely command the narrow
channel through which vessels necessarily approach bows
126 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVI.
found the town entirely deserted, however, although there was every
evidence that a portion of the inhabitants and the enemy's cavalry had
just left. I remained here only long enough for the infantry to come
up but pushed on up the river to CrowelPs plantation and Gadsden's
Bluff, where I had learned there were extensive salt-works. Immedi
ately after leaving the wharf we discovered some 200 cavalry and a body
of infantry rapidly retreating down the Hardeeville road, which was
skirted on" the opposite side by impassable woods, but entirely open on
the side toward us. We opened fire upon them from all our guns, and
I am convinced most effectively ; our shell exploded very frequently
di rectly among them, and there was soon a perfect stampede. I feel cer
tain that their loss in killed and wounded must have been very consid
erable. We continued firing until they were entirely out of sight and
range, by which time we had reached CrowelPs plantation, which had
been left by its owner half an hour before.
The salt-works here we completely demolished, tearing down the fur
naces and vats and destroying the kettles. Some contrabands made
their appearance, who pointed out the location of other salt-works just
above, which we also destroyed. These last were very extensive, the
vats extending for more than a quarter of a mile. The yield of salt
must have been very great. Meanwhile the enemy again made his
appearance on a high bluff a mile distant with a piece of artillery
drawn by four horses, but upon the first discharge of our guns they
beat a most precipitate retreat. As we had fully accomplished the
object of our expedition, and nothing more remained to be done, we re
turned to Fort Pulaski.
On our way down we stopped again at Bluffton, and carried off a con
siderable quantity of furniture from the deserted houses, which is now
at this post, subject to the disposal of the general commanding.
In behalf of my officers and myself I would respectfully request that
we be permitted to retain these articles for our use while at this post.
The reconnaissance made of the roads to and beyond Bluffton was most
complete and perfect, and I trust at some future time may prove useful
in future operations toward Savannah. All the roads bore evidence of
the confused retreat of the enemy. I learned among other things that
the force at Hardeeville does not consist of over three regiments, and
that there are two not very formidable batteries between Bluffton and
that place, both on the main road.
It affords me pleasure to add that the officers and men of my com
mand conducted themselves during the day in the most commendable
manner, embarking and disembarking in perfect order and with great
promptness. They were only disappointed that they did not get a
nearer view of the enemy.
^ I would mention as especially deserving of commendation Captain
ickland, who commanded the land forces, and Captain Coan, in
charge of skirmishers, both of Forty-eighth New York State Vohm-
[•s ; also Captain Gould and Lieutenant Fry, Third Rhode Island
Artillery, for their excellent gunnery. Adit. A. W. Goodell, of mv regi
ment, also rendered me efficient aid.
have the honor to be, colonel, very respectfully, your obedient
Ovl \ 1 1 1 1 I ,
WM. B. BARTON,
Colonel Forty-eighth Neic York Volunteers, Comdg. Post.
Lieutenant-Colonel PRENTICE,
Assistant Adjutant- General, Chief of Staff,
CHAT. XXVI.] EXPEDZTION PROM HILTON HEAD, S. C. ]27
SBPTEMBEE 0.,
OJT THE IPRINCIIPAL EVENTS.
October 1, 1862.— Engagement at Saint John's Bluff.
2, 1862.— Skirmishes between Mayport Mills and Saint John's Bluff
3, 1862.— Capture of Saint John's Bluff.
5, 1862.— Kecapture of Jacksonville.
6-9, 1862.— Expedition from Jacksonville to Lake Beresford.
7, 1862.— Capture of the Governor Milton.
, ETC.
No. 1.— Brig. Gen. John M. Brannan, U. S. Army, commanding expedition
No. 2.— Lieut. Col. Tilghman H. Good, Forty-seventh Pennsylvania Infantry
No. 3.-First Lieut. George H. Hill, Fifty-fifth Pennsylvania Infantry, Acting Signal
Officer, including expedition from Hilton Head to Pocotalitro River S C
October 21-23, 1862.
No. 4.— Lieut. Franklin E. Town, Forty-second New York Infantry, Acting Signal
Officer, of recapture of Jacksonville.
No. 5.— Lieut. George W. Bacon, Aide-de-Camp, of capture of the Governor Milton.
No. 6.— Brig. Gen. Joseph Finegan, C. S. Army, commanding Department of Middle
and East Florida.
No. 7.— Lieut. Col. C. F. Hopkins, C. S. Army, and resulting correspondence.
No. 1.
Reports of Brig. Gen. John M. Brannan, U. S. Army, commanding expe
dition.
HEADQUARTERS EXPEDITIONARY FORCES,
II. S. TRANSPORT BEN DE FORD,
Saint John's River, Fla., October 4, 18G2.
GENERAL : In accordance with your instructions I arrived within the
bar of this river on the afternoon of the 1st of the present month, and
the same night effected a landing at a place known as Mayport Mills.
I afterward established a position on Mount Pleasant Creek, though
with great difficulty, owing to the swampy nature of the country and
the number of unfordable creeks intersecting it. On our first arrival in
the river the rebels, as far as I could ascertain, received re-enforcements,
making their garrison in Saint John's Bluff batteries about 1,200 in
fantry and cavalry, with a light battery of eight guns, in addition to
thft heavy armament of the batteries. I further learned that they were
momentarily expecting re-enforcements from Georgia.
On the 1st instant the gunboats made a reconnaissance on the river,
and were immediately and warmly engaged by the batteries on Saint
John's Bluff, on which they withdrew.
However yesterday, the 3d instant, on making a further reconnais
sance, the batteries were found to have been evacuated by the rebels.
I immediately advanced from my position on Mount Pleasant Creek
and occupied the batteries and late camps of the enemy. The batteries,
which are skillfully constructed, well armed, and well supplied with
ammunition, appear to have been deserted in great haste, the guns be
ing all mounted, loaded, and in good condition, the ammunition served,
and everything in excellent lighting order. I am in fact utterly at a
128 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAI-. XXVL
loss to account for this sudden evacuation on the part of the rebels, as,
in addition to a most skillfully constructed line of defense, the position
possesses natural advantages which render it almost impregnable, and,
with the number of men which I know to have occupied it, the position
might have been maintained for a considerable time and the task of
reducing it rendered one of extreme difficulty and danger to a. much
larger force than I had at my disposal. In advancing to Mount Pleas
ant Creek our pickets had some skirmishing with the rebels 5 indeed,
during our entire advance to Saint John's Bluff the guerrillas continued
to show themselves in the woods, and occasionally to fire at us, even
after the evacuation of the batteries. They, however, did us no injury.
On the 2d instant a scouting party of the Forty-seventh Begimeut
Pennsylvania Volunteers, under Captain Keck, of that regiment, sur
prised a camp of the rebels, taking some camp equipage and about sixty
stand of arms of all descriptions, but chiefly rifles. The men effected
their escape, having horses and being much favored by the intricate
nature of the grouutl.
I am much indebted to the gunboats, Captain Steedman, U. S. Navy,
in command, for the prompt and energetic manner in which they as
sisted at the disembarkation of the troops, and the valuable assistance
rendered by their howitzers in covering the lauding and advance of the
infantry.
On leaving this point it is my intention to blow up the magazines and
utterly destroy the works on Saint John's Bluff, and 1 am at present
engaged in removing the guns, which I propose to take with me, they
being of considerable value, their number and caliber as follows, viz:
Two 8-inch columbiads, two 8-inch guns, smooth bore, two 8-inch how
itzers, and two 4.6-inch rifled guns. I return the transport Cosmopolitan,
and respectfully request that I may receive by her rations for my com
mand for ten days from the 10th instant, as it will yet take me some
time to complete my work on this river.
Owing to information received yesterday, the 3d instant, as to the
•ength of the enemy, I deemed it expedient, on consultation with
Japtain Steedman, U. S. Navy, commanding gunboats, to send the
smopohtan to Fernandina, Fla,, and to call on that garrison for re-
enforcements to my command. This call Colonel Rich, Ninth Eeffimeut
m, C1> uavuig passed, i sent tnem back per this ship.
runboats proceeded up the river yesterday and will return this
.aptain Steedman, who has just returned, states that there
li corn on the bank of the river. This I propose to take with me,
s; it not, to destroy it. He (Captain Steedman) was informed
eorgia regiments were to have arrived at Jacksonville this
ing, but in consequence of the evacuation were ordered back.
the honor to be, general, respectfully, your obedient servant,
J. M. BKANNAN,
Brigadier- General, Commanding.
Maj. Gen. O. M. MITCHEL,
ndg. Department of the South, Hilton Head, S. G.
HDQRS. EXPEDITION TO SAINT JOHN'S EIVER,
Steamship Ben De Ford, October 13, 1862.
with1orders ^ceivocl from headquarters De-
assumed command of the following forces iu-
CHAP. XXVI.] EXPEDITION FROM HILTON HEAD, S. C. 1 20
tended to operate against the rebel batteries at Saint John's Bluff -ind
such other parts of the Saint John's River as should contain rebel works:
The Forty-seventh Regiment Pennsylvania Volunteers, Col. T. U. ( i f
effective strength 825; Seventh Regiment Connecticut Volunteer
Joseph R. Hawley, effective strength 647; section of First Connecticut
Light Battery, Lieutenant Cannon, effective strength 41; detachment
of First Massachusetts Cavalry, Captain Case, effective strength <io
Total, 1,573.
The expedition left Hilton Head, S. C., on the afternoon of Septem
ber 30, on the transports Ben De Ford, Boston, Cosmopolitan, and Nep
tune, and arrived off the bar of Saint John's River early on the follow
ing morning (October 1), but was unable to enter the river until 2 p.
m. the same day, owing to the shallowness of the channel.
This expedition was joined by the following fleet of gunboats, Capt.
Charles Steedman, U. S. Navy, commanding, ordered to co-operate with
it: Paul Jones, flag-ship; Cimarron, Captain Woodhull ; Water Witch,
Lieutenant-Commander Pendergrast; Hale, Lieutenant-Commander
Suell; Uncas, Lieutenant-Commander Crane; Patroou, Lieutenant-Com
mander Uran.
On the expedition coming within the river three gunboats were
sent up to feel the position of the enemy and were immediately and
warmly engaged by the batteries, apparently of heavy armament, on
Saint John's Bluff. A landing was effected at a place known as May-
port Mills, a short distance from the entrance of the river, and the en
tire troops, with their arms, horses, and rations, were on shore by 9
o'clock on the night of the 1st. The country between this point and
Saint John's Bluff presented great difficulties in the transportation of
troops, being intersected with impassable swamps and unfordable
creeks, and presenting the alternative of a march, without land trans
portation, of nearly 40 miles, to turn the head of the creek, or to re-
land up the river at a strongly guarded position of the enemy. On
further investigation of the locality a landing was effected for the in
fantry about 2 o'clock on the morning of the 2d at a place known as
Buckhorn Creek, between Pablo and Mount Pleasant Creeks; but,
owing to the swampy nature of the ground, it was found impracti
cable to land the cavalry and artillery at that point. Here the gun
boats rendered most valuable assistance, by transporting the troops
in their boats and in sending their light howitzers to cover their land
ing. Col. T. H. Good, with the entire infantry and the marine howit
zers. was ordered to proceed immediately to the head of Mount Pleasant
Creek, and there establish a position to cover the lauding of the cavalry
and artillery. This movement was executed with great promptnes
skill, surprising and putting to flight the rebel pickets on that creel
Indeed, the landing of the troops at Buckhorn Creek and their
movements on Mount Pleasant Creek proved to be most iortunat
J-CUlllllAl (^ • JLXIVy If 1 V-/lVV-'l k3 iV-UlAV^ m , .
their camps standing, their arms, and even a great portion
ing apparel behind them, and the men themselves may thank tiie
cate nature of the ground, together with their superior knowledge of 'A
country almost impracticable to a stranger, that they t
M0nethe afternoon of the 3d the command of ^ill
was in position at the head of Mount Pleasant Creek,
9 R R — VOL XIV
130 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVI.
2 miles from the enemy's works on Saint John's Bluff. Here the
statements of those belonging- to the locality, though conflicting and
unreliable in the extreme, appeared to agree in placing the strength
of the rebels at 1,200 cavalry and infantry, in addition to the heavy
batteries, which they represented as containing nine heavy pieces,
two of them being columbiads. Under these circumstances 1 deemed
it expedient, on consultation with Captain Steedman, U. S. Navy,
commanding naval forces, to call upon the garrison of Fernandina
for re-enforcements. To this call Colonel Kich, Ninth Regiment Maine
Volunteers, commanding that garrison, responded promptly by send
ing 300 men early on the following morning. Later on that day,
from further information received, Captain Steedman, at my request,
sent three gunboats to feel the position of the rebels, shelling them
as they advanced, when the batteries were found to be evacuated ; after
which Lieutenant Snell, U. S. Navy, sent a boat ashore and raised the
American flag, finding the rebel flag in the battery. The U. S. steamer
Water Witch retaining possession of the batteries until the arrival of
the land forces, the command immediately advanced from the position
on Mount Pleasant Creek and occupied the batteries and late camp of
the enemy. At about 8 o'clock on the evening of the 3d the cavalry,
not having landed with the portion of the troops, were here disem
barked. I found the late position of the enemy on Saint John's Bluff
to be one of great strength, and. possessing a heavy and effective arma
ment, with a good supply of ammunition, as will be seen by the accom
panying inventory of ordnance captured — the works being most skill
fully and carefully constructed and the position greatly enhanced by
the natural advantages of the ground, it being approachable from the
land by but one route, which would lead the attacking party through
a winding ravine immediately under the guns of the position, and from
tin* narrowness of the channel at this point and the elevation of the
bluff rendering the fighting of the gunboats most difficult and danger
ous. Most of the guns were mounted on a complete traverse circle,
and indeed, taking everything into consideration, I have no doubt but
that a small party of determined men could have maintained this posi
tion for a considerable time against even a larger force than was at my
disposal.
On the day following my occupation of these works (October 4) I
proceeded to dismount the guns and to remove them and the ammuni
tion on board the transport Neptune, which work was completed on the
rth, when I forwarded them to Hilton Head, and caused the magazines
j blown up, and otherwise destroyed the entire works on the bluff.
On first occupying the bluff Captain' Steedman, with his gunboat, pro-
tied immediately to Jacksonville, for the purpose of destroying all
th "'ri v " '''^ iuter('el)tin£ the Passage of the rebel troops across
TM°fr !ll(^\lo;lTvin^ the work of removing the guns from Saint John's
ol. T. H. Good, Forty-seventh Regiment Pennsylvania Voluu-
econd in command, I proceeded up the river as far as Jack-
5 in the transport Ben De Ford with 785 infantry. I observed a
ity of corn and other crops on the banks of the river, which
first my intention either to remove or destroy. This purpose
abandoned as impracticable, not having either forces or
of h sufficient to remove it and seeing from the communication
-general commanding that he did not desire the delay nec-
stroy it The rebels had a light battery of eight pieces
itioii in readiness to receive seven heavy guns at a place called
CHAP, xxvi.] EXPEDITION FROM HILTON HEAD, S. C.
Yellow Bluff, which they appear to have lately evacuated Ja<-ks<
ville I found to be nearly deserted, there being but as mi i oi <V f
its inhabitants left-chiefly old men', women, and children o! „ r '
arrival some few rebel cavalry were hovering around the town lm
they immediately retired on my establishing a picket line. From' tins
town and its neighborhood I bring with me several refugees and about
2/6 contrabands, including men, women, and children
On the 6th, hearing that some rebel steamers were secreted in the
creeks up the river, I sent the Darlington, with 100 men of the Forty'
seventh Regiment Pennsylvania Volunteers, in charge of Captain Y-ml
with two 24-pounder light howitzers and a crew of 25 men all under
the command of Lieutenant Williams, U. S. Navy, and a convoy of
gunboats, to cut them out. This party returned on the morning of the
9th with a rebel steamer, Governor Milton, which they captured in a
creek about 230 miles up the river and about 27 miles' from the town
of Enterprise. Lieutenant Bacon, my aide-de-camp, accompanied the
expedition. Finding that the Cosmopolitan, which had been sent to
Hilton Head for provisions, had so injured herself in returning across
the bar as to be temporarily unfit for service, I sent the Seventh Kegi-
inent Connecticut Volunteers to Hilton Head by the 'steamer Boston
on the afternoon of the 7th instant, with the request that she might be
returned, to assist in the transportation to Hilton Head of the re
maining portion of my command.
On the return of the successful expedition after the rebel steamers, on
the 9th I proceeded with that portion of my command to Saint John's
Bluff, awaiting the return of the Boston.
On the llth instant I embarked the section of the First Connecticut
Light Battery, with their guns, horses, &c., and one company of the
Forty-seventh Eegiment Pennsylvania Volunteers, on board the steamer
Darlington, sending them to Hilton Head via Feruandina, Fla. On the
llth, the Boston having returned, 1 embarked myself, with the last re
maining portion of my command, except one company of the Forty-
seventh Pennsylvania Volunteers, left to assist and protect the Cosmo
politan, for Hilton Head, S. C., on the 12th instant, and arrived at that
place on the 13th instant. The captured steamer Governor Milton I
left in charge of Captain Steedman, U. S. Xavy.
It is evident that the troops in this portion of the country, from their
being in separate and distinct companies, have not sufficient organiza
tion or determination to attempt to. sustain any one position ; but seein
rather to devote themselves to a system of guerrilla warfare, as was
exemplified in our advance on Saint John's Bluff, where, even after the
evacuation of the fort, they continued to appear on our flank and iu
our front ; but, as they seemed to fear a too near approach, their tire
was never effective.
*^J UV^VllJU ttJAJ • \^f • K_/» -A.1 IU » J • J-\ ^ _
he entered into every scheme for the reduction of the enemy a
destruction of their works and the zeal and activity with which he
personally superintended every detail of his portion of the duties ; » id,
further, for his generous assistance iu relieving the transpo:
% Ascertained at Jacksonville that the enemy commenced evacuating
the Bluff immediately after the surprise of their pickets near .
Pleasant Creek, on the 3d instant. ,
It affords me pleasure to state that the most perfect harmoii) au
132 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVI.
cood feeling existed between the two branches of the service in every
respect, doubtless owing to the gallant and gentlemanly conduct of the
n.i, munder of the naval forces.
The troops under my command showed great energy, zeal, and
aol ivit v. and a desire to meet the enemy ; but the latter were too fleet
for them. I doubt not they will give a good account of themselves
\vhen the opportunity affords.
I am Liuch indebted to my staff, Capt. L. J. Lambert, assistant adju
tant • general ; Capt. I. Coryell, assistant quartermaster, and Lieuts. I.
V.Germain and G.W.Bacon, aides-de-camp, for their zeal, energy,
mid attention to their duties during the entire expedition, particularly
the three latter officers, who were always ready at all times for any
duty. To Captain Coryell, assistant quartermaster, the Quartermaster's
Department owes much for his untiring energy and activity in giving
his valuable assistance to the transport Cosmopolitan after her accident.
1 am also under obligation to Capt. A. P. Eockwell, First Connecticut
Li»ht Batterj7, who acted as additional aide-de-camp, and to the offi
cers of the Signal Corps, Lieuts. G. H. Hill and F. E. Town, who per
formed their duties with great satisfaction to me and the expedition.
1 have the honor to be, colonel, most respectfully, your obedient
servant,
J. M. BEANNAN,
Brigadier-General, Commanding.
Lieut. Col. W. P. PRENTICE,
Asst. Adjt. Gen., Dept. of me South, Hilton Head, S. G.
No. 2.
Report* of Lieut. Col. Tilghman H. Good, Forty-seventh Pennsylvania
Infantry.
HEADQUARTERS U. S.' FORCES,
Mount Pleasant Landing, Fla., October 2, 1862.
SIR : I have the honor to make the following report for the informa
tion of the general commanding :
In accordance with orders received I landed my regiment on the bank
of Buckhorn Creek at 7 o'clock yesterday morning. After landing I
moved forward in the direction of Parker's plantation, about 1 mile,
being then within about 1-J miles of said plantation. Here I halted to
await the arrival of the Seventh Connecticut Eegiment. I advanced
two companies of skirmishers toward the house, with instructions to
halt in case of meeting any of the enemy and report the fact to me.
After they had advanced about three-quarters of a mile they halted
and reported some of the enemy ahead. I immediately went forward
to the line and saw some 5 or 0 mounted men about 700 or 800 yards
I then ascended a tree, so that I might have a distinct view of
the house, and from this elevated position I distinctly saw one company
of infantry close by the house, which 1 supposed to number about 30 or
) men, and also some GO or 70 mounted men. After waiting for the
Seventh Connecticut Volunteers until 10 o'clock, and it
not appearing, I dispatched a squad of men back to the landing for a
6-pounder field howitzer which had been kindly offered to my service
by Lieutenant Boutelle, of the Paul Jones. This howitzer had been
CHAP. XXVI.] EXPEDITION FROM HILTON HEAD, S. C. 133
stationed on a flat-boat to protect our landing. The party however
did not arrive with the piece until 12 o'clock, in consequence of tl,,'
difficulty of dragging it through the swamp. Being anxious to l,;u
as little delay as possible, I did not await the arrival of the howit/«-r
but at 11 a. m. moved forward, and as I advanced the enemy llnl'
After reaching the house I awaited the arrival of the Seventh Con*
uecticut and the howitzer. After they arrived I moved forward to the
head of Mount Pleasant Creek to a bridge, at which place I arrived at
2 p. m. Here I found the bridge destroyed, but which I had repiuml
in a short time. I then crossed it and moved down on the south bank
toward Mount Pleasant Landing. After moving about 1 mile down the
bank of the creek my skirmishing companies came upon a camp, whidi
evidently had been very hastily evacuated, from the fact that the occu
pants had left a table standing with a sumptuous meal already pre
pared for eating. On the center of the table was placed a fine," large
meat pie still warm, from which one of the party had already served
his plate. The skirmishers also saw 3 mounted men leave the place in
hot haste. I also found a small quantity of commissary and quarter
master's stores, with 23 tents, which, for want of transportation, I was
obliged to destroy. After moving about a mile farther on I came across
another camp, which also indicated the same sudden evacuation. In
it I found the following articles, viz : Eighteen Hall's breech-loading
carbines, 12 double-barreled shot-guns, 8 breech-loading Maynard rifles,
11 Enfield rifles, and 96 knapsacks. These articles I brought along by
having the men carry them. There were, besides, a small quantity of
commissary and quartermaster's stores, including 16 tents, which, for
the same reason as stated, 1 ordered to be destroyed. I then pushed
forward to the landing, where I arrived at 7 p. m.
We drove the enemy's skirmishers in small parties along the entire
march. The march was a difficulf one, in consequence of meeting so
many swamps almost knee-deep. ^
I am, sir, your obedient servant,
T. H. GOOD,
Colonel Forty-seventh Regiment Pennsylvania Volunteers.
Captain LAMBERT,
Assistant Adjutant- General.
HEADQUARTERS U. S. FORCES,
Saint John's Bluff, Fla., October 3, 1862.
SIR: For the information of the general commanding I have the
honor to make the following report :
At 9 o'clock last night Lieutenant Cannon reported
command, consisting of one section of the First Connecticut Battery,
was then coming up the creek on flat-boats with a view of landing. At
4 o'clock this morning a safe landing was effected and the comm
was ready to move. The order to move to Saint John's Biuft reacli
me at 4 p. m. yesterday. In accordance with it I put the col
motion immediately arid moved cautiously up the bank ot
John's Kiver, the skirmishing companies occasionally >
parties of the enemy's cavalry retiring in our front as we advancec
When about 2 miles from the bluff the left wing of the sk.rmish.n
came upon another camp of the enemy, which, however, in cons
of the lateness of the hour, I did not take time to examine, it
already dark.
134 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVI.
After mv arrival at the bluff, it being then 7.30 o'clock I dispatched
Lieutenant-Colonel Alexander with two companies back to the last-
named cann> (which I found, from a number ot papers left behind, to
I™ been called Camp Hopkins and occupied by the Milton Artillery,
of Florida) to recounoiter and ascertain its condition. Upon his return
he reported that from every appearance the skedaddling of the enemy
wis as sudden as in the other instances already mentioned, leaving
their trunks and all the camp equipage behind; also a small quantity
of commissary stores, sugar, rice, half barrel of flour, one bag of salt,
&c including CO tents, which I have brought in this morning. The
commissary stores were used by the troops of my command.
I have the honor to be, your obedient servant,
JL . xi. vTwvJ-LJ,
Colonel Forty-seventh Regiment Pa. Vols., Comdg.
Captain LAMBERT,
Assistant Adjutant- General.
No. 3.
Report of First Lieut. George H. Hill, Fifty-fifth Pennsylvania Infantry,
Acting Signal Officer, including expedition from Hilton Head to Poco-
taligo River, 8. C., October 21-23, 1862.
HILTON HEAD, S. C., November 1, 1862.
MAJOR: I have the honor to report: October II was at Mayport
Mills, Saint John's River, Florida, l^n duty with the expedition under
command of Brig. Gen, J. M. Brannan, Lieutenant Town, acting signal
officer, being on board the flag-ship Paul Jones, of the naval squadron,
Captain Steedman commanding. We kept constant communication
open between the land and naval forces. The signals were very ex
tensively used, both day and night, until the evening of the 3d, after
the retreat of the enemy from the battery on Saint John's Bluff. The
signals were also of some service in advancing up the river to Jack
sonville on the 5th; and upon our arrival at Jacksonville on the after
noon of the 5th, our pickets being attacked by the enemy's cavalry,
and Lieutenant Town having gone on board the gunboat Cimarron
that vessel was ordered to shell the enemy. The firing being regulated
by the signals, the enemy were soon driven back some miles from our
lines. While at Jacksonville Lieutenant Town and myself kept com
munication open between the Navy and the force on shore. On the
morning of the 12th we left the Saint John's Eiver, and on the morning
of the 13th, we having arrived here, I was directed by General Bran-
nan to report to Lieutenant Keenan, chief acting signal officer Depart
ment of the South, for duty. From the 13th to the 21st I remained on
duty at the station at Hilton Head, S. C., when, having received orders
from Lieutenant Keenan, I reported to Brig. Gen. J. M. Brannan, on
board the U. S. transport Ben De Ford, to accompany an expedition
up the Coosawhatchie River. The fleet consisted of 15 vessels (gunboats
and transports). There being six other signal officers on the gunboats
and transports we successfully kept communication open between Gen
eral Brannan, commanding the troops, Captain Steedman, command
ing the naval forces, General Terry, on board the U. S. transport Bos-
CHAP. XXVI.] EXPEDITION FROM HILTON HEAD, S. C.
and the expedition started up the Broad and Coosawhatohie Rivers!
the Paul Jones leading off. At daylight on the morning of the 22d we
anchored in the Coosawhatchie River, off the mouth of the l»ocotali»o
Kiver, at a place known as Mackay's Point, and as the different vessels
came up their troops were at once landed. Lieutenant Cross accompa
nied General Terry ashore and opened communication with me. From
6 a. m. till about 11.30 a. m., during the debarkation of the troops, the
signals were extensively used, so much so in fact that there was at no
time an interval of five minutes that I was not engaged in either send
ing or receiving messages, orders, and reports of the operations of the
force on the land. At about 11.30 a. m., October 22, most of the troops
being landed and having pushed forward, General Brannan and staff
landed, and we soon reached the head of the column. When about 0
miles from the place of landing we came in sight of the enemy's cav
alry at a place known as Castou. We opened on them with the artil
lery, advancing as we fired. We were soon received with a heavy tire
from the enemy's artillery posted in a thick wood. As the country was
low and thickly wooded, and the troops not being able to act in concert
with the gunboats, our services as signal officers were rendered useless.
Lieutenant Gross acted as aide to General Terry and I acted as aide
to General Branuau throughout the day, the other signal officers re
maining on board the gunboats. After an engagement of nearly an
hour the enemy fell back to the north side of a creek, destroying the
bridge in their retreat. Here the enemy made another stand at a place
known as Frampton, but after a resistance of about two hours they
were again compelled to retreat. They fell back to the east side of
Pocotaligo River, where they seemed to have rifle pits. They destroyed
the bridge across the Pocotaligo River, rendering it impossible for us
to reconstruct the bridge in front of their battery of field pieces and
the river was not fordable. At this point it is believed the enemy
received re-enforcements. We engaged the enemy here until dark,
when, our ammunition being nearly exhausted, we fell back to the place
of landing (Mackay's Point) in the morning, a distance of about 1
miles, and by 4 a, m. October 23 the whole command had reached
Mackay's Point, and during the day embarked on board the transports
and returned to Hilton Head. I learn that our loss in killed, wounded,
and missing was 419.* That of the enemy must have also been severe,
besides having lost several prisoners. During the embarkation of
troops and until we arrived at Hilton Head the signal detachments
were kept employed and of some service. On the morning of the 24th
I received orders from General Brannan to report to Lieut. L. J. K
nan, chief acting signal officer Department of the South, tor duty,
I have since been on duty at this station at Hilton Head.
I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
GLO. H. H1-LL/,
First Lieut., Fifty-fifth Rcgt, Pa. Volt., Acting Signal Officer.
Maj. ALBERT J. MYER,
Signal Officer, U. S. Army, Washington, D. C.
* But see revised statement, p. 148.
136 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [Ciixp. XXVL
No. 4.
Report of Second Lieut. Franklin E. Town, Forty-second New York In
fantry, Acting Signal Officer, of recapture of Jacksonville.
OFFICE OF THE SIGNAL OFFICE,
Beaufort, S. 0., October 13, 1862.
MAJOR: I have the honor to report to you that ou the 23d of Sep
tember, in obedience to an order from Lieut. E. J. Keenan, chief signal
otlicer Department of the South, I reported to Brigadier-General Bran-
nan for special service, to accompany an expedition being organized
under his command to proceed to Saint John's Bluff', Fla. In obe
dience to General Brannan's orders 1 embarked on the 25th of Septem
ber, and the expedition proceeded as far as Hilton Head, S. C., from
whence we returned to Beaufort and disembarked the same afternoon,
the prevalence of a severe storm preventing the sailing of the expedi-
tiou. On the 30th of September we again embarked, and arrived at
Saint John's River early the following morning (October 1). I was
then stationed on board the gunboat Paul Jones, by order of Lieut.
G. IJ. Hill, senior signal ofiicer of the expedition. Before the landing
of the troops was completed it was discovered that the enemy had
abandoned their battery on Saint John's Bluff, and on the 3d of Octo
ber the Paul Jones went up the river to Jacksonville. The Paul Jones
returned to the Bluff the following morning, and ou the 5th she accom
panied General Brannan to Jacksonville, General Brannau being on
the steamer Boston with part of a regiment. That afternoon our
forces, who had been sent out as skirmishers, met a party of the enemy
who were behind the town, and the gunboat Cimarron opened a fire of
shell upon the enemy. During the firing I was stationed on the dinar-
roil to assist in directing the fire by sign il. After the firing ceased I
returned to the Paul Jones. On the 12th of October I embarked to
return on the steamer Boston, General Brannan being on the Ben
De Ford. Lieutenant Hill and myself kept the steamers in communica
tion with each other until our arrival at Hilton Head this morning
(October 13). There being no resistance by the enemy, our signals were
used only as a means of communication between General Branuau,
whose headquarters were on board the steamer Ben De Ford, and Cap
tain Steed man, commanding the gunboat fleet at Saint John's, and
were not used on shore. The signals were very extensively used, and
I am happy to say to ths gratification of General Braunau, who testifies
in his report of the expedition to their efficiency and usefulness.
1 have the honor to remain, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
FKANKLIN E. TOWN,
Second Lieut. Forty-second N. Y. Vols., and Acting Signal Officer.
Maj. A. J. MYER, Signal Officer, U. S. Army, Washington.
No. 5.
Report of Lieut. George W. Bacon, Aide-de-Camp, of capture of the Gov
ernor Milton.
HEADQUARTERS TENTH ARMY CORPS,
Hilton Head, S. C., December 30, 18G2.
CAPTAIN: For the information of the general commanding I have
CHAP. XXVI.] EXPEDITION FROM HILTON HEAD, S. C. 187
the honor to report the facts in regard to the case of the captun-d
steamer Governor Milton.
On October 6 last, in obedience to orders, I proceeded with th»»
expedition sent from Jacksonville, Fla., up the Saint John's River, in
search of rebel steamers.
At 9 p. m. the next day, October 7, discovered the steamer Governor
Milton in a small creek, 2 miles above Hawkinsville; boarded her in a
small boat, and found tkat she had been run in there but a short, time
before, as her fires were not yet out. Her engineer and mate, then in
charge, were asleep on board at the time of her capture. They in
formed us that owing to the weakness of the steamer's boiler we found
her where we did, as they had intended to take her up as far as Enter
prise. We returned with our prize the next day.
When the expedition returned from the Saint John's River the Gov
ernor Milton was left with Captain Steedman, who was in command
of the naval forces in the Saint John's, and was used by him for nearly
two weeks, after making some repairs to her boiler and machinery,
when she was sent to Hilton Head, and there appraised by the Navy at
$2,000, and turned over to the Quartermaster's Department, in whose
employ she has been ever since. The Governor Milton is now at Beau
fort, S. C., for the purpose of having her boiler and machinery repaired,
she being entirely unfit for use in her present condition.
I have the honor to be, most respectfully, your obedient servant,
GEO. W. BACON,
Lieutenant and Aide-de Camp.
Capt. Louis J. LAMBERT,
Assistant Adjutant- General, Tenth Army Corps.
No. 6.
Reports of Brig. Gen. Joseph Finegan, C. 8. Army, commanding Depart
ment of Middle and East Florida.
LAKE CITY, FLA., October 2, 1862.
I am hard pressed on the Saint John's River; 3,000 men reported by
the commanding officer at Saint John's Bluff as having landed at
Mayport, Mills. The enemy engaged our batteries again and were
pulsed. Please send me one regiment of infantry as soon as possil
I asked for a regiment some ten days since, but have not nea
you on the subject. jQg FINEGAN,
Brigadier- General, Commanding.
General S. COOPER,
Adjutant and Inspector General.
LAKE CITY, FLA., October 2, 1862.
GENTLEMEN: lam hard pressed on the Saint ^^MMI^S
commanding officer at Saint John's Bluff reports 3,00 Fedt al are
being landed at Mayport Mills. The enemy *n»agiHl om b. < .
again yesterday for the third time and were repulsed. I £™nj£f*
ficient men to resist a hind attack if made ft2~ 2^^253
the Secretary and get one or two regiments of infantry fl
1 .-,8 COASTS OF S. C., OA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVI.
Georgia If 1 bad them for a few days it might save the Saint John's
Hiver and perbapa East Florida. jQg FINEGAN>
Brigadier- General.
Hon. JAMES S. BAKER,
Hon. A. E. MAXWELL,
Hon. JAMES B. DAWKINS,
Hon. E. B. HILTON.
HDQRS. PROV. FORCES, DEPT. EAST AND MIDDLE FLA.,
Jacksonville, Fla., October 3, 1862.
On mv arrival on the river last night I found that the post at Saint
John's Bluff had been evacuated. The enemy made a landing some 5
miles in the rear of the battery, but in what force I am unable to say.
As at present advised I think we had sufficient force to hold the place,
and that its abandonment by Lieutenant-Colonel Hopkins, the com
manding officer, was a gross military blunder, that may require iuves-
tigati0n' JOS. FINEGAK,
Brigadier- General, Commanding.
General S. COOPER.
No. 7.
Reports of Lieut. Col. C. F. Hopldns, C. 8. Army, and resulting corre
spondence.
CAMP DUNHAM, FLA., October 8, 1862.
GENERAL: Below I have the honor to submit such a statement as the
circumstances will permit of my proceedings at the post of Saint John's
Bluif from September 26 to October 3 :
On taking command of the post I proceeded to examine the condition
of the magazines, batteries, &c., and set at work fatigue details to
strengthen and put them in thorough repair. When I arrived there
were five gunboats in the river; on September 29 another caine over
the bar, and on the 30th another, making in all seven gunboats. They
made no movement toward attacking the batteries. From this fact,
together with reports from our pickets that -heavy work was being done
on board -the boats, I became apprehensive that forces would be landed
and the batteries attacked by land troops in reverse. Acting upon this
suspicion I immediately dispatched you a communication, from which
I copy the following expressions:
I deem it necessary that at least one regiment of infantry should be sent to this
point without delay to protect our rear. * * The force of infantry now here is
not sufficient to repel an attack made in force, and in addition to the limited number
for rear defense we have not ammunition sufficient for small-arms for more than one
hour's fight closely contested.
Later on the same day I wrote you a communication, in which the
following expressions occur:
I am fully impressed with the belief that the enemy contemplate a land attack, as
they will and have found it impracticable to succeed by water. I cannot urge upon
you too strongly, general, the necessity for sending us soon as practicable re-enforce
ments of infantry.
CHAP. XXVI.] EXPEDITION FROM HILTON HEAD, S. C. 139
•
In the same letter I advised you that
Sergeant Floyd, of Captain [J.] Westcott's company, reported that from th«>
light-house be could distinctly see a very large numbed of men on^.tl , k ,
large transport steamer, which was anchored not more than half a mile from whm 'he
*W£IS.
On the 1st instant three large transports entered the river, and at 2
p. in. three gunboats engaged our batteries and were repulsed after an
hour's fight. I then dispatched an order to Captain Dunham, command
ing at Yellow Bluff, from which I copy the following expressions:
Three large transports have just come into the river, all crowded with troops There
are also seven gunboats, making in all ten vessels. The fact of tbeir concentrating
here so many vessels and troops is sufficient evidence of their intention to land a 1 ii"?-
force. You will therefore dismount the three cavalry companies under vonr com
mand and send them over to-night by the steamer.
During the engagement between the gunboats and our batteries the
enemy commenced landing infantry and artillery at Mayport Mills. Of
this fact 1 informed you in the same telegram reporting the engagement.
I also dispatched an order to Captain [Joseph L.J Dunham, from which
I copy the material portion :
The enemy landed this afternoon at Mayport Mills about 3,000 men; also artillery.
You will repair without delay to these headquarters with your whole command. We
need your artillery immediately.
The cavalry companies dismounted, numbering about 110 men, were
sent without dela3T; the artillery was not sent. It is proper, however,
to add that his horses were at a distance and his caissons not with his
pieces, and both time and means of transportation were very limited.
Of these facts I was not aware when the order was sent. When I be
came aware — through a letter from Captain Dunham — that the artillery
could not be obtained, I then wrote him a further order, which was sent
him by the messenger bringing his letter, directing him to send over
immediately all the men he could spare, and that I would do my utmost
to arm them, so that they might act as infantry. To this [ received no
reply. This was written at 3 a. in. on the lid instant.
At an early hour on the 2d instant intelligence was received from Cap-
'tain [ W. E.] Chambers, commanding a squadron of cavalry, that during
the preceding night the enemy had landed in considerable force at Green
field and were still rapidly landing. I immediately informed Major [T.
W.] Brevard, commanding the infantry in rear of the batteries, of the
intelligence received, and directed him to place his forces in line of bat
tle upon the position previously pointed out to him and so to remain
until further orders. I could distinctly see from my position at the bat
tery the landing of the enemy. The troops were transferred from May-
port Mills to Greenfield, as the transports were plying between the mill
and the mouth of Pablo Creek and thence up the creek in launches.
I immediately directed Captain Chambers to annoy them as much
possible when they commenced advancing, and, if possible, tc
in check, it being impossible to prevent the landing without i
lery, as they were under cover of their guns.
Captain Chambers proceeded to deploy his men us skirmisher
vantaseouslv as the circumstances would permit. After .<
informed me that the enemy had commenced their advance in the foil
ing order, viz: Two hundred skirmishers in front, with a
thlir advance of three companies, and in rear their main column
men; alsoartillerv. Captain Chambers, after holding hispositiouas o
as he considered he could do so without being Hanked, informed me mat
140 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVI.
he had commenced falling back. This was about 1 p. m. From my posi-
tinu at tin- batteries I perceived that the landing- still rapidly progressed
after Captain Chambers fell back and continued for several hours, so
that Captain Chambers could not have seen the full number, as men
were landed in large numbers after he left the position from which his
estimate was made. I communicated constantly with Captain Cham
bers and Major Brevard, receiving information from the former and
convcvini: to'the latter the result of my observations and sending such
directions as were considered necessary from time to time. Captain
Chambers was compelled to fall back steadily before the enemy, and
finding that his camp would soon fall into their hands, burned his tents
and oilier property. He still kept me informed of his position and that
<»t the enemy, and his couriers informed me that the enemy were bring-
in ii- tield artillery with them.
About this time a niessenger came from Major Brevard, asking leave
to proceed with his command in the direction of the enemy and contest
his passage through the swamps, of which there were a few between
them and the batteries. I perceived that this was our best chance to
annoy the enemy with any effect and granted the leave asked. Before
Major Brevard could move, however, intelligence was received from Cap
tain Chambers that the enemy were now coming in two columns — one on
tlic road as heretofore and the other much 'farther to the right. This
second column had crossed Mount Pleasant Creek, and both columns
moved apace with each other, guided by signal sounds. Major Brevard
was now directed to remain in his present position. Shortly after this
further intelligence came from Captain Chambers that the enemy had
passed through his camp and were within a few miles of the infantry,
in rear of the batteries under Major Brevard. It was now growing late,
and Captain Chambers was directed to fall back nearer to Major Bre-
vard's position, as there was every indication that the enemy would
make no halt, and it was desired to have his men in sufficient proximity
to place them as circumstances should require when the enemy came
up. I also sent out from the batteries a detachment of 45 men, leaving
only four gun detachments at the bluff. Deeming it necessary to
strengthen the infantry, Captain [W.] Stephens, with his own com
pany and this detachment, was directed to take position considerably
to the left of Major Brevard's line, as it was now tolerably certain that
one of the columns of the enemy would follow the river as nearly as
po>>iblf, in order that the advantage to them of their guns upon their
shipping would be greater. The enemy now ceased their march.
1 now perceived that with the greatly superior forces brought against
us it would be impossible to successfully, or with any hope of success,
make a stand against them. Our forces in rear did not number more
than 500 men, including the detachment sent from the batteries. This
detachment was partially armed with the almost useless arms turned
uu-
am-
<>\er by Captain Dickison. Captain [VV. H.] Milton was, in effect,
provided with ammunition, and Captain Chambers reported the SL_
munition of his squadron damaged by the rain, which fell constantly
during the day. This was not, therefore, an efficient force. I had only
lour gun detachments at the batteries. The enemy had, by report of
Mr. Hay nes (in every respect a reliable man), 3,000 men; also artillery.
-By the estimate of Captain Chambers they had 2,500 men in their main
ilso artillery) at the time he was forced to fail back from
tjreenneld, and for four hours after Captain Chambers had fallen back
roni my position at the batteries I could distinctly perceive that rapid
lauding was still m progress. From the number of boats used and the
CHAP. XXVI.] EXPEDITION FROM HILTON HEAD, S. C. HI
rapidity with which they plied between the vessels and the lauding I
estimated that they could not have landed lesa after Captain Oham&w
had fallen back than 300 men per hour. Therefore, at the very sM.-ill
est estimate, not less than 1,000 men were landed after Captain Cham
bers had left the ground. Against this force it was simply impossible
to hold the batteries. I therefore called a conference of tlie officers :,t
the batteries. Captain [John C.] Richard, Lieutenant Stuart, and my
self were present, and the question of the practicability of boldin««- tfic
place was discussed. The opinion was unanimous that our forces wn •<•
not sufficient to resist those against us in our rear. I then sent a
courier to Major Brevard, informing him of our conference at the bat
teries, and requesting him to procure an expression of opinion from him
self and the officers commanding companies outside the batteries. In
the mean time, however, I understood a conference had been held by
the several captains under Major Brevard, sustaining unanimously the
opinion that the forces there were insufficient to repel the enemy in
front. At 9 p. m. the post was reluctantly abandoned.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
CHAS. F. HOPKINS,
•• Lieutenant- Colonel, Commanding.
Brig. Gen. JOSEPH FINEGA.N,
Comdg. Department of Middle and Eastern Florida.
[Indorsement.]
Respectfully referred for the information of the commanding general.
While I impute no want of courage to the officer in command, I consider
that he mistook his duty as an officer in not making a personal recon
naissance of the enemy, their strength, position, &c., and in not resist
ing with the whole force at his command their approach to his works.
If overpowered by actual conflict with the enemy it was then the duty
of Lieutenant-Colonel Hopkins to have spiked his guns and destroyed
his ammunition and retire in the best order he could. Neither of these
seems to have been done. The evacuation seems to have taken place
some eighteen or twenty hours before the approach of the enemy by
laud. The guns were not spiked, nor the ammunition, of which there
was a large quantity, destroyed.
JOS. FINEGAN,
Brigadier- General, Comma nding.
HEADQUARTERS APALACHICOLA RIVER DEFENSES,
Alum Bluff, Fla., December 24, 1802.
GENERAL : I have the honor to state, for the information of the com
manding general, that his communication of November 3, through Gen
eral Fiuegan, has been received. In reply, I inclose my demand tor a.
court of inquiry and the decision of the court. Brigadier-General 3
egan says in his report to you that I mistook my "duty as an officer
and distinctly seethe men as they disembarked from t&ei
smaller boats and were conveyed up to the lauding in Pablo Creek ; and
JSUJdllCI UUCDliO ifellU >VC1C \JU\L »»_•,> wi «t, v <-, I
from the number that I saw land I was convinced that ante*
retreat my small command would be captured, as the guns from tl
142 COASTS OF S. C , OA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. IC,ur. XXVT.
afforded no protection to the rear. In regard to not spiking the
< •,' « es ti vi IK the aiiimiinitiou, I did save- as much ot the .iinmn-
s I • , 1.1 get transportation for, tvhich was only one wagon load.
1 not tankthe trunnions of the guns because the noise made in
1, i , s would have exposed our designs to the enemy. 1 did not spike
1, e rbecm se had not', ing to do it with and did not consider it impor-
l!u,r, as they did not bear upon the rear or the direction which we re-
"VlopiiV^ that this short explanation may meet with your approbation,
I have the honor to be, with much i«*P«^«r '^lOPiaNS '
Lieutenant- Colonel.
Brig. Gen. THOMAS JORDAN, Chief of Staff , Dept. S. C., Ga., and Fla.
[Inclosmre No. 1.]
CAMP FINEGAN, October 8, 1862.
Brig. Gen. JOSEPH FINEGAN, Comdg. Dept. East, and Mid. Florida:
GENERAL: As there have been expressions of opinion, and reports
put in circulation based upon them, prejudicial to myself and the vol
unteers under my command in the evacuation of Saint John's mutt
on the night of October 2, I respectfully demand that a court ot in
quiry be called at the earliest day practicable, to examine into the tacts
of tlie case and the policy of the course pursued by myself upon that
occasion.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
CIIAS. F. HOPKINS,
Lieutenent- Colonel, Commanding.
[Inclosure Xo. 2.]
GENERAL ORDERS, ) HEADQUARTERS PROVISIONAL FORCES,
DEPT. EAST AND MIDDLE FLORIDA,
No. — . ) Camp Finegan, October 8, 1862.
At the request of Lieut. Col. C. F. Hopkins, late commander at Saint
John's Bluff, a court of inquiry is hereby ordered, to convene at this
post at 10 a, in. on to-morrow, to take evidence of the facts relating to
the evacuation of post at Saint John's Bluff, with its armament and
stores. The court will be composed of the following officers : Lieuten
ant-Colonel Mitchell, Twenty-ninth Georgia Regiment ; Lieutenant-
Colonel [T. W.] Maugham, Thirtieth Georgia Regiment, and Lieuten
ant [II. F.] Abell, Milton Artillery, as judge-advocate.
By order of Brigadier-General Finegan :
W. CALL,
Captain and Assistant Adjutant- General.
[Inclosure No. 3.]
CAMP FINEGAN, October 11, 1862.
At the solicitation of Lieutenant-Colonel Hopkins the court con
vened by Brigadier-General Finegan to investigate the necessity and
policy of evacuating the batteries on Saint John's Bluff hereby append
its decision, inasmuch as it was contemplated by Colonel Hopkins' de
mand for a court to investigate the circumstances relating to the said
evacuation that the court should give an expression of its opinion :
The court, after patiently hearing the testimony adduced by the
several witnesses, and after mature deliberation, give it as their opinion
CHAP. XXVI.] AFFAIR AT KIRK'fi BLUFF, S. C. 143
that Lieutenant-Colonel Hopkins, with the effective force at his com
mand could not under the existing circumstances, have made a suc
cessful defense of the batteries; and, further, from the evidence the
court is of the opinion that the evacuation of the batteries was i>osi
tively necessary for the safety of the men under his command as *
attempt to have held it against the greatly [superior] land force' of the
enemy would have inevitably resulted in the complete reduction of the
batteries and the capture of the command. We therefore consider
Lieutenant-Colonel Hopkins wholly justifiable in the course he pur-
sued in abandoning the batteries on the Saint John's
WILLIAM D. MiTCHELL,
Lieut. Col., Comdg. Twenty-ninth Georgia, President of the Court.
OCTOBER 18, 1862.— Affair at Kirk's Bluff, S. C.
Report of Col. William B. Barton, Forty-eighth Neic York Infantry.
HDQRS. U. S. FORCES ON THE SAVANNAH KIVER,
Fort PulasM, Ga., October 19, 1S(>2.
COLONEL : I have the honor to state, for the information of the gen
eral commanding, that in compliance with his instructions I yesterdav
went up May River with steamer Planter, having on board one company
Forty-eighth New York State Volunteers, Lieutenant Elfwing, and I*
detachment of the Third Ehode Island Artillery, Captain Gould, to
Cro well's plantation, for the purpose of meeting the scout who had been
sent up to New Bridge. Owing to the head wind and adverse tide, and
the fact that the steamer did not reach the fort the night before until
long after midnight, I did not arrive at CrowclPs until 2.30 p. m.
After taking the scout on board we started on our return, stopping for
a few moments at Bluffton to secure a boat and to learn what we could
as to the recent presence of the enemy there.
We found indications that a company of cavalry had been in the town
during the day. On our way down, after leaving Bluff'tou, while pass
ing Kirk's Bluff, where the channel is within half musket-range of the
shore, a considerable force of the enemy, concealed in the dense thicket
on tne bluff, opened a musketry fit e upon the Planter. The fire was in
stantly returned by both infantry and artillery on board the steamer,
and I judge effectively also, as we fired a number of rounds of shell with
one-second fuses (which exploded directly among them) and of grape
and canister.
Meanwhile (as the boat, having been under full headway when the fir
ing first commenced, had passed beyond the bluff) I directed her to be
put about, and running back took a favorable position and continued
shelling the enemy, who were now retreating in great contusion, grad
ually increasing the fuses as the distance widened, until they were
entirely out of range. By this time night had come on, and as the tide
was failing I returned to this post. The enemy's tire at times was very
heavy, shots striking the steamer in almost every part, and two passing
through and through her. It is very remarkable, considering t he ad vai
tage the enemy possessed in being in a great measure concealed ;
above us and the exposure of our men, that not more injury was mm
It affords ine pleasure to state all the troops on board the Planter, as
~~ * Nominal list shows 4 men wounded.
144 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA [CHAP. XXVI.
well as the officers and crew of the boat, behaved in the most commend
able manner during this little aftair.
I have the honor to be, colonel, respectfully, your obedient servant,
WM. B. BAETON,
Colonel Forty -eighth New York State Vols., Comdg. Post.
Lieut. Col. W. P. PRENTICE, A. A. G. and Chief of Staff.
OCTOBER 22-23, 1862.— Skirmish at Coosawhatchie and engagements at
the Caston and Frampton Plantations, near Pocotaligo, S. C.
REPORTS, EJTC.*
No. 1.— Maj. Gen. O. M. Mitchel, U. S. Army, commanding Department of the South.
No. 2.— Return of Casualties in the Union forces.
No, 3.— First Lieut. Edward J. Keenan, Eleventh Pennsylvania Reserves (Infantry),
Acting Chief Signal Officer Department of the South.
No. 4. — Brig. Gen. John M. Brannan, U. S. Army, commanding expedition.
No. 5.— Col. Edward W. Serrell, First New York Engineers.
No. 6.— Lieut. Col. James F. Hall, First New York Engineers.
No. 7. — Col. Tilghman H. Good, Forty-seventh Pennsylvania Infantry, commanding
First Brigade, Tenth Army Corps.
No. 8. — Maj. Lorenzo Meeker, Sixth Connecticut Infantry.
No. 9.— Col. Louis Bell, Fourth New Hampshire Infantry.
No. 10.— Col. Tilghman H. Good, Forty-seventh Pennsylvania Infantry.
No. 11.— Col. Richard White, Fifty-fifth Pennsylvania Infantry.
No. 12.— Brig. Gen. Alfred H. Terry, U. S. Army, commanding Second Brigade, Tenth
Army Corps.
No. 13. — Col. Joseph R. Hawley, Seventh Connecticut Infantry.
No. 14.— Col. John H. Jackson, Third New Hampshire Infantry.
No. 15.— Col. De Witt C. Strawbridge, Seventy-sixth Pennsylvania Infantry.
No. 16.— Col. William B. Barton, Forty-eighth New York Infantry.
No. 17.— Capt. Samuel C. Eaton, First New York Engineers.
No. 18.— General G. T. Beauregard, C. S. Army, commanding Department of South
Carolina, Georgia, and Florida.
No. 19.— Return of Casualties in the Confederate forces.
No. 20.— Brig. Gen. W. S. Walker, C. S. Army, commanding Third Military District of
South Carolina.
No. 21.— Capt. W. W. Elliott, C. S. Army, Ordnance Officer, Third Military District
of South Carolina.
No. 22.— Col. C. J. Colcock, C. S. Army, Third South Carolina Cavalry.
No. 23.— Col. Claudius C. Wilson, C. S. Army, Twenty-fifth Georgia Infantry.
No. 24.- Lieut. E. E. Jefferson, C. S. Army, Nelson Light Artillery, Virginia.
No. 1.
Report of Maj. Gen. Ormsby M. Mitchel, U. S. Army, commanding De
partment of the South.
HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE SOUTH,
Hilton Head, Port Royal, S. C., October 24, 1862.
GENERAL : My third expedition to the main-land returned last night.
e expedition was designed to accomplish the following objects :
* For reports of Commander Steedman^andTieutenant Pho^nixTu. S. Navy, see
Annual Report of the Secretary of the Navy, December 1, 1862.
CHAP. XXVI.] SKIRMISH AT COOSAWHATCHIE, S. C., ETC. H5
First, to make a complete reconnaissance of the Broad Kiver and its
three tributaries, Coosawhatchie, Tulifiny, and Pocota.ligo- second to
test practically the rapidity and safety with which a landing could be
effected ; third, to learn the strength of the enemy on the main-land
now guarding the Charleston and Savannah Railroad; and, fourth to
accomplish the destruction of so much of the road as could be effected
in one day. At this season of the year I did not deem it prudent to
expose the troops upon the main-land for a longer period.
300 men 5 Seventy-sixth Pennsylvania, 430 men ; New York Mechanics
and Engineers, 250 men ; Forty-eighth New York, 300 men ; one sec
tion of Hamilton's battery and 40 men ; one section of the First Kegi-
rnent Artillery, Company M, battery and 40 men, and the First Massa
chusetts Cavalry, 100 men. Making an entire force of 4,500 men.
Every pains had been taken to secure as far as possible success for
the expedition. Scouts and spies had been sent to the main-land to all
the most important points between the Savannah Kiver railroad bridge
and the bridge across the Salkehatchie. A small party was sent out
to cut. if possible, the telegraph wires. Scouts had been sent in boats
up the tributaries of the Broad Kiver. All the landings had been
examined, and the depth of water in the several rivers ascertained as
far as practicable. Two of our light-draught transports have been con
verted into formidable gunboats and are now heavily armed, to wit,
The Planter and the George Washington. By my orders the New
York Mechanics and Engineers, Colonel Serrell, had constructed two
very large fiat-boats, or scows, each capable of transporting half a
battery of artillery, exclusive of the caissons, with the horses. They
were provided with hinged aprons, to facilitate the landing not only
of artillery but of troops from the transports.
Owing to an accident which occurred to the transport Cosmopolitan
during the expedition to the Saint John's River I found myself defi
cient in transportation, and applied to the commanding officer, Com
modore Godon, of the South Atlantic Blockading Squadron, who
promptly placed under my orders a number of light-draught gunboats
for the double purpose of transportation and military protection.
On the evening of the 21st, under the command of Captain Steedinan,
U. S. .
order
the
toil, JStCitlll-LUj; J-V'CIICI, tviuu oV7iav/v/"^«- *" •"" " ,
Water Witch, George Washington, and Pl-.inter. The flat-boats, wit
artillery, were towed by the Ben De Ford and Boston. The best negro
pilots which could be found were placed on the principal vessels, as we
as signal officers, for the purpose of intercommunication. Ift
proved to be smoky and hazy, which produced some contusion in the
sailing of the vessels, as signal lights could not be seen by those , in<*t
.remote from the leading ship. The larger vessels, however, got
way about 12 o'clock at night. . ,
After a careful examination of the map I ordered a £ndto«J» 1
effected at the mouth of the Pocotaligo Biver, at a p nc I .m n . w
MHcknv'a Point, Thin is really a narrow neck of land m. id 1>> I"
Broad Hiver and the Pocotaligo, in both of winch rivers
lie and furnish a perfect protection for the debarkati
1() TC B — VOL XIV
146 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVI.
Salkehatchie Elver. The distance to the railroad was only about 7
or 8 miles, thus rendering it possible to effect a landing, cut the rail
road arid telegraph wires, and return to the boats in the same day.
saw that it would be impossible for the troops to be attacked by the
enemy either in flank or rear, as the two flanks were protected by the
Pocotaligo River on the one hand and by the Broad and by the Tuli-
fiuy, its tributary, on the other. Presuming that the enemy would
make his principal defense at or near Pocotaligo, I directed that a
detachment of the Forty eighth New York, under command of Colonel
Barton, with the armed transport Planter, accompanied by one or two
light draught gunboats, should ascend the Coosawhatehie River, for the
purpose of making a diversion ; and, in case no considerable force of
the enemy was met, to destroy the railroad at and near the town of
Coosawhatchie.
In addition to our land forces we were furnished by the Navy with
several transports, armed with howitzers, three of which were landed
with the artillery, and thus gave us a battery of seven pieces. All the
troops were furnished ,vith 100 rounds of ammunition. Two light am
bulances and one wagon, with its team, accompanied the expedition.
I have no official report from Brigadier-General Brannan, the officer^
in command, but, having had an interview with Generals Branuau and'
Terry and with several regimental commanders, I am enabled to give
you a general outline of the facts and of the results obtained.
First, we have learned the navigation of the Broad River, and have
also ascended the Pocotaligo and Coosawhatchie Rivers, so as to obtain
a complete knowledge of these two streams; second, a lauding was
effected rapidly and in perfect safety, but. owing to the ignorance of our
pilots one of the large transports ran aground not far from Mackay's
Point, which delayed the moving of the expedition three or four hours
and gave the enemy full opportunity to make every disposition of his
available troops for defensive purposes, and also to telegraph to Charles
ton and Savannah for re-enforcements; and, third, we encountered the
enemy, as I anticipated, about 3 miles from Pocotaligo, and in two suc
cessive engagements drove him from his strong positions, and finally
compelled his retreat across the Pocotaligo River, destroying the bridge
behind him.
The march and fight continued from about 1 o'clock until between
5 and 0 o'clock in the afternoon. The officers and troops behaved in
the most gallant manner. One bayonet charge was made over cause
ways with the most determined courage and with veteran firmness.
The advance was made with caution, but with persistent steadiness,
driving the enemy over a distance of more than 3 miles, and finally
compelling him to seek safety by crossing the Pocotaligo River and the
destruction of its bridge. The fight was continued on the banks of the
Pocotaligo, but the coining on of night and the exhaustion of our am
munition, as well as the impossibility of crossing the river, rendered it
necessary for the troops to return to their boats. This was done in
perfect order and with great deliberation. It was impossible for the
enemy to harass our troops, as they were on the opposite side of the
river and the bridge was destroyed.
So far as I know all the dead 'and wounded were brought off'.
Nothing whatever fell into the hands of the enemy, while they were
compelled to abandon two of their caissons, with ammunition,' which
CHAP. XXVI.] SKIRMISH AT COOSAWHATCHIE, 8. C., ETC. 147
was returned to them (the ammunition) on the banks of the Pocotaligo
from our naval howitzers.
While these events were in progress the detachment under the com
mand of Colonel Barton, of the Forty-eighth New York Volunteers,
ascended the Coosawhatchie River to within 1J miles of the village.
A landing was effected, and the troops of Colonel Barton, accompanied
by a detachment of Engineers and Mechanics, marched upon the village.
When within about 100 yards of the railroad a train of eight or ten cars
came up at high speed, and was received by a volley from our infantry
and a discharge from one of the naval howitzers. As the troops weie
mostly upon platform cars, and very much crowded, this fire must
have been very destructive. The engineer was killed, but the train was
stopped in the village, and these troops were added to those already
guarding the bridge, and this force made it necessary to draw off the
Engineers, who were engaged in tearing up the track, having taken with
them the tools required for this purpose, and the entire detachment fell
back, under the protection of the armed transport and the gunboat.
The enemy pursued, supposing the Planter to be an unarmed transport,
but her heavy guns soon drove them back in disorder, and Colonel Bar
ton, having determined, in his dash upon the village, the position of
the bridge and of the depot, shelled them both with his 30-poimder
Parrotts for nearly two hours during the afternoon. Before dark he
returned to Mackay's Point, with no loss except the wounding of Lieu
tenant Blanding, of the Third Ehode Island, whose arm was shattered
and his side pierced by a Minie ball.
1 regret to say that the main body, under the command of Brigadier-
General Brannan, suffered severely in killed and wounded in the three
tights, which constituted almost one continuous battle during the entire
afternoon.
I desire to acknowledge the deep obligations I am under to Cornino^
dore Godou, as well as to Captain Steedman and the other officers and
sailors of the Navy, who accompanied the expedition, and to the officers
and soldiers composing the expedition, who fought with distinguished
gallantry and with signal success, and have earned the thanks .
Government and of the country.
I inclose a list of casualties, which I think ^J^^^V0^™
from which it appears that our loss amounts to about 50 killed and c
wounded.* The loss of the enemy it was of course impo:
° ASfew prisoners have fallen into our hands, and we have every reason
to believe that the enemy suffered severely.
• The greatest activity prevailed on the railroad and of car,
with troops appear to have been sent from both (
VThave planned three other expeditions, but am BO deficient in troops
that I am' compelled to recruit my forces after «*«2*^££
this delay is disastrous. I most earnestly beg for re-ento
our blows may fall with far greater rapidity, and thus i
*I Ktfc honor to be, general, very respectfully, your most obedient
servant, O. M. M1TCHEL,
Major- General, Commanding.
Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLECK, G^eraUn-Chi^Wa^Mngton^I
* But see revised statement, p. 148.
148 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVI,
No. 2.
Return of Casualties in the Union forces in the skirmish at Coosawhatchie
and engagements at the Caston and Frampton Plantations, near Poco-
taligo, IS. C., October 22, 1SG2.
[Compiled from nominal lists of casualties, returns, &c.]
Command.
Killed.
"Wounded.
Captured
or missing.
•Sf
Remark*.
Officers.
Enlisted men.
O
Enlisted m'en.
1
3
5
2
4
25
27
34
29
2
3
27
112
30
79
3
10
11
Capt. Charles Mickley killed ;
Capt. George Junker died of
wounds October 23.
Capt. Horace C. Bennett killed.
Cajpts. Arthur Hamilton and
Henry Wayne killed.
1st Massachusetts Cav
alry (detachment).
2
3
25
91
25
4th Xew Hampshire
2
3
1
1
2
17
3
10
f>.r>th Pennsylvania
7 (it li Pennsylvania
3d Rhode Island Heavy
Artillery (detach-
mout).
1st U. S. Artillery, Bat
tery M (detach
ment).
3d U. S. Artillery. Bat
tery E (detach
ment).
i
i
2
1
64
2
g
1
1
1
8
i
4
39
13 281
3
340
No. 3.
Report of First Lieut. Edward J. Keenan, Eleventh Pennsylvania Reserves
(Infantry], Acting Chief Signal Officer Department of the South.
HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE SOUTH,
Hilton Head, S. (7., October — , 1862.
MAJOR : I have the honor to report that on the 18th instant I was
informed by Major-General Mitchel, commanding Department of the
South, that an expedition was being prepared to undertake offensive
operations upon the main-land of South Carolina, and was directed to
have a sufficient number of signal officers prepared to accompany it.
On the 20th instant, after another consultation with General Mitchel,
1 made the following assignments of signal officers and directed them
to report accordingly :
First Lieut, G. H. Hi]
General Branuan.
Hill to report on board steamer Ben De Ford to
First Lieut. J. E. Findley to report on board gunboat Water Witch.
Second Lieut. F. E. Town to report on board gunboat Paul Jones.
Second Lieut. T. L. Hatfleld to report on board gunboat Marblehead.
Second Lieut. W. H. Hanmer to report on board gunboat Cone-
inaugh.
Second Lieut. T. C. Yidal to report on board steamer Planter.
Second Lieut.,O. F. Cross to report on board steamer Boston.
CHAP. XXVI.] SKIRMISH AT COOSAWHATCHIE, S. C., ETC. 140
At midnight of the 21st instant the expedition got under way and
proceeded up Broad and Coosawhatchie Elvers. At daylight on tin-
morning of 22d the vessels anchored in the Coosawhatchie River, oft'
the mouth of Pocotaligo, and the troops were ordered to disembark
which having been accomplished, they were pushed forward toward the-
railroad running between Charleston and Savannah, without, until thev
had marched 6 miles, encountering any opposition ; here, however, the
enemy made a stand ; fire was opened by our artillery and briskly replied
to by that of the enemy, who were posted in a thick wood. After an en
gagement of nearly an hour the enemy fell back to the north side of the;
creek, destroying the bridge in their retreat. Here they made another
stand at a place called Frampton, but after a resistance of about two
hours retreated to the east side of Pocotaligo, 10 miles from where our
forces had landed, destroying also this bridge. At this point they had
prepared rifle pits and were heavily re-eniorced, and the engagement
was renewed with great energy upon both sides. Night coming on our
troops were ordered to retire, reaching the landing at the mouth of the
Pocotaligo at about 4 o'clock on the morning of the 23d. The nature
of the ground, thickly wooded, prevented any use .of signals in the bat
tles, but they were extensively and with much advantage used in the
debarkation and embarkation of the troops and while on the way be
tween the gunboats. Lieutenants Hill and Cross accompanied the col
umn upon shore, the former in the action acting as aide to Brigadier-
General Brannan, who acknowledges Lieutenant Hill's services in his
official report; the latter to Brigadier-General Terry. Lieutenant
Yidal accompanied Col. W. B. Barton, with the Forty -eighth Regi
ment New York Volunteers and a detachment of the Third Rhode Isl
and Artillery, up the Coosawhatchie on board the Planter, and when
that force landed accompanied it on shore. Near the railroad they were
met and fired upon by a heavy force of the enemy, when they fell back
and embarked again upon the Planter. The other signal officers re
mained under orders upon the gunboats. Our loss in killed, wounded,
and missing was 419.* Lieuts. G. H. Hill and J. R. Find ley, acting sig
nal officers, have received communications from the command ing officers
of their respective regiments informing them that their names have
been presented to the Governor of Pennsylvania for promotion to cap
taincies, their former captains having both been killed in the engage
ment ; they have made application to be relieved from signal dut.v. By
the death of Major-General Mitchel, Brig. Gen. J. M. Brannan is now
in command of this department. By his direction I have placed a signal
officer, Lieut. Paul Brodie, upon the flag-ship Wabash for the purpose
of facilitating communication between Admiral DuPont and Genert
Brannan. By Special Orders, No. 345, Private Charles D. Chamberlain,
Seventy-sixth Pennsylvania Volunteers, was relieved from signal duty
and has rejoined his company, and Private William Morford, of Com
pany G, Seventy-sixth Pennsylvania Volunteers, has been detailed in
his stead. Lieut. T. P. Rushby is in general hospital, and Lieut. G
tavus Dana has been assigned to duty at Kane Island.
I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
E . « J . J\. rJ Vj iN -A. jN ,
1st Lieut., llth P. R. C., and Actg. Chief Signal Officer D. S.
Maj. A. J. MYEB,
Signal Officer, U. 8. Army, Washington, D. C.
* But see revised statement, p. 148.
1,50 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVL
No. 4.
Reports of Brig. Gen. John M. Brannan, U. S. Army, commanding expe
dition.
HEADQUARTERS EXPEDITIONARY FORCES,
U. S. Transport Ben De Ford, October 24, 1862.
COLONEL : In accordance with instructions received from Headquar
ters Department of the South, I assumed command of the following
1< >ires, ordered to destroy the railroad and railroad bridges on the
Charleston and Savannah line:
A portion of the First Brigade (Brannan's), Col. J. L. Chatfield, Sixth
Regiment Connecticut Volunteers, commanding, effective strength 2,000;
a portion of Second Brigade, Brig. Gen. A. H. Terry commanding, effect
ive strength 1,410 ; detachment of Third Regiment Rhode Island Vol
unteers, Colonel Brown commanding, effective strength 300 ; detach
ment of Forty-eighth Regiment New York State Volunteers, Colonel
Barton commanding, effective strength 300 ; detachment of First Massa
chusetts Cavalry, Capt. L. Richmond commanding, effective strength
108 ; section of "First U. S. Artillery, Lieut. G. V. Henry commanding,
effective strength 40 ; section of Third U. S. Artillery, Lieut. E. Git-
tings commanding, effective strength 40 ; detachment of New York
Volunteer Engineers, Lieutenant-Colonel Hall commanding, effective
strength 250. Total effective strength, 4,448 men.
With ttiis command I left Hilton Head, S. C., on the evening of
October 21, and, proceeding up Broad River, arrived off Pocotaligo
Creek at 4.30 a. in. with the transport Ben De Ford and the gunboat
Paul Jones. Col. William B. Barton, Forty-eighth Regiment New York
State Volunteers, 50 men of the Volunteer Engineer Corps, and 50 men
of the Third Rhode Island Volunteers, in accordance with my order,
delivered early that morning, proceeded direct to the Coosawhatchie
River, to destroy the railroad and railroad bridges in that vicinity.
The other gunboats and transports did not all arrive until about 8 a. m.
on October 22. I immediately effected a landing of my artillery and
infantry at Mackay's Point, at the junction of Pocotaligo and Tulifiny
Rivers. I advanced without delay in the direction of Pocotaligo
Bridge, sending back the transports Flora and Darlington to Port Royal
Island for the cavalry, the First Brigade being in advance, with a sec
tion from the First U. S. Artillery, followed by the Second Brigade, with
Colonel Brown's command, the section of the Third U. S. Artillery and
three boat howitzers, which Captain Steedman, commanding the naval
forces, kindly furnished for this occasion, and a detachment of 45 men
from the Third Rhode Island Volunteer Artillery, under Captain Corn-
stock, bf that regiment.
On advancing about 5J miles and debouching upon an open rolling
country the rebels opened upon us with a field battery from a position
on the plantation known as Castou's. I immediately'caused the First
Brigade to deploy, and, bringing my artillery to the front, drove the
rebels from this position. They, however, destroyed all small bridges
in the vicinity, causing much delay in my advance. These, with the
aid of the Engineer Corps, were reconstructed as we advanced, and I
followed up the retreat of the rebels with all the haste practicable. I
ad advanced about 1£ miles farther, when a battery again opened on
J trom a position on the plantation called Frampton. The rebels here
had every advantage of ground, being-enscoiiced in a wood, with a deep
CHAP. XXVi.] SKIRMISH At COOSAWHATCHlE, S. C., ETC. 151
swamp in front, passable only by a narrow causeway, on which the
bridge had been destroyed, while, on our side of the swamp and along
the entire front and flanks of the enemy (extending to the swamps) was
an impervious thicket, intersected by a deep water-ditch, and passable
only by a narrow road. Into this wood the rebels threw a most terrific
fire of grape, shot, shell, canister, and musket balls, killing and wound
ing great numbers of my command. Here the ammunition for the field
pieces fell short, and, though the infantry acted with great courage and
determination, they were twice driven out of the woods with great
slaughter by the overwhelming fire of the enemy, whose missiles tore
through the woods like hail. I had warmly responded to this tire with
the sections of First and Third U. S. Artillery and the boat howitzers
until, finding my ammunition about to fail, and seeing that any flank
movement was impossible, I pressed the First Brigade forward through
the thicket to the verge of the swamp, and sent the section of First (I.
S. Artillery, well supported, to the causeway of the wood on the farther
side, leaving the Second Brigade, with Colonel Brown's command, the
section of Third U. S. Artillery, and the boat howitzers as a line of de
fense in my rear. The effect of this bold movement was immediately
evident in the precipitate retreat of the rebels, who disappeared in the
woods with amazing rapidity. The infantry of the First Brigade im
mediately plunged through the swamp (parts of which were nearly up
to their arm-pits) and started in pursuit. Some delay was caused by the
bridge having been destroyed, impeding the passage of the artillery.
This difficulty was overcome, and with my full force 1 pressed forward
on the retreating rebels. At this point (apprehending, from the facility*
which the rebels possessed of heading Pocotaligo Creek, that they would
attempt to turn my left flank) I sent an infantry regiment, with a boat
howitzer, to my left, to strike the Coosawhatchie road.
The position which I had found proved, as I had supposed, to be one
of great natural advantage to the rebels, the ground being higher on
that side of the swamp, and having a firm, open field for the working
of their artillery, which latter they formed in a half circle, throwing a
concentrated fire on the entrance to the wood we had first passed.
The rebels left in their retreat a caisson full of ammunition, which
latter, fortunately, fitting the boat howitzers, enabled us, at a later
period of the day, to keep up our fire when all other ammunition had
failed.
Still pursuing the flying rebels, I arrived at that point where the
Coosawhatchie road (joining that from Mackay's Landing) runs through
a swamp to Pocotaligo Bridge. Here the rebels opened a murderous
fire upon us from batteries of siege guns and field pieces on the farther
side of the creek. Our skirmishers, however, advanced boldly to the
edge of the swamp, and, from what cover they could obtain, did con
siderable execution among the enemy. The rebels, as I had
pated, attempted a flank movement on our left, but for some reason
abandoned it. The ammunition of the artillery here entirely iailed,
owing to the caissons not having been brought on, for the want <
transportation from Port Royal, and the pieces had to be sent back t
Mackay's Point, a distance of 10 miles, to renew it.
The bridge across the Pocotaligo. was destroyed, and the rebel:
behind their earthworks continued on the only approach to it
the swamp. Night was now closing fast, and seeing the utfc
lessness of attempting anything further against the force which the
enemv had concentrated at this point from Savannah and Charle
with an army of much inferior force, unprovided with ammunition, anil
152 COASTS OF S. C., OA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVI.
not having even sufficient transportation to remove the wounded, who
\\t-iv l.Yinir writhing along our entire route, I deemed it expedient to
retire to Markay's Point, which I did in successive lines of defenses,
burying my dead and carrying our wounded with us on such stretchers
as we conld manufacture from branches of' trees, blankets, &c., and
receiving no molestation from the rebels, embarked and returned to
Hilton Head on the 23d instant.
Facts tend to show that the rebels were perfectly acquainted with all
our plans, as they had evidently studied our purpose with care, and
had two lines of defense, Caston and Frarnpton, before falling back on
Pocotaligo, where, aided by their field works and favored by the nature
of the ground and the facility of concentrating troops, they evidently
purposed making a determined stand; and indeed the accounts gath
ered from prisoners leave no doubt but that the rebels had very accu
rate information of our movements.
I greatly felt the want of the cavalry, which, in consequence of the
transports having grounded in the Broad Eiver, did not arrive till
nearly 4 p. m., and which in the early part of the day would perhaps
have captured some field pieces in the open country we were then in,
and would at all events have prevented the destruction of the bridge
in the rear of the rebels. Great praise is due to the brigade and regi
mental commanders for their calm and determined courage during the
entire day and for the able manner in which they handled their several
commands. Colonel Barton, Forty-eighth Regiment New York State
Volunteers, as will be seen from the accompanying copy of his report,
partially effected the object of his movement on Coosawhatchie; but.
meeting with too strong a force of the rebels, was obliged to re-embark'.
I desire to call the attention of the major-general commanding the
department to the gallant and distinguished conduct of First Lieut.
Guy V. Henry, First U. S. Artillery, commanding a section of light
artillery. His pieces were served admirably throughout the entire en
gagement. He had two horses shot. The section of Third U. S. Artil
lery, commanded by First Lieut. E. Gittings, was also well served.
He being wounded in the latter i>art of the day, his section was com
manded by Lieutenant Henry.
The three boat howitzers furnished by Captain Steedman, U. S. Navy,
commanding the naval forces, were served well, and the officers com
manding them, with the crews, as also the detachment of the Third
Khode Island Volunteers, deserve great credit for (heir coolness, skill,
and gallantry. The officers commanding these guns are as follows:
Lieut. Lloyd Phoenix and Ensigns James Wallace, La Eue P. Adams,
and Frederick Pearson.
The conduct of my entire staff— Capt. Louis J. Lambert, assistant
adjutant-general; Capt. 1. Coryell, assistant quartermaster, and Lieuts.
Ira V. Germain and George W. Bacon, aides-de-camp— gave me great
pleasure and satisfaction. My orders were transmitted by them in the
hottest of the battle with great rapidity and correctness. To Col. E.
W. Serrell, New York Volunteer Engineers, who acted as an addi
tional aide-de-camp, I am much indebted. His energy, perfect coolness,
and bravery were a source of gratification to me. Orders from me were
rying my orders during the entire day. Col. T. H. Good, Forty-seventh
giment Pennsylvania Volunteers (Colonel Chattield being wounded
early in the day), commanded the First Brigade during the latter
CHAP. XXVI.] SKIRMISH AT COOSAWHATCHIE, S. C , ETC. lf)3
part of the engagement with much ability. Nothing could be more
satisfactory than the promptness and skill with which the wounded
were attended to by Surg. E. W. Bailey, Forty-seventh Pennsylvania
Volunteers, medical director, and the entire medical stafl' of the com
mand.
The troops of the command behaved with great gallantry, advancing
against a remarkably heavy fire of musketry, canister, grape, round
shot, and shell, driving the enemy before them with much determina
tion. I was perfectly satisfied with their conduct.
It affords me much pleasure again to report the perfect cordiality
existing between the two branches of the service, and I was much in
debted to Capt. Charles Steedman, IT. S. Navy, for his valuable aid and
assistance in disembarking and re-embarking the troops ; also in send
ing launches, with howitzers, to prevent an attack on our pickets while
we were embarking to return to Hilton Head.
The fitting out of the expedition, as relates to its organization, sup
plies, transportation, and ammunition, was done entirely by the innjor-
general commanding the department, who pat first purposed to com
mand it. I was not assigned to the command till a few hours previous
to the sailing of the expedition from Hilton Head.
The reports of the brigade and other commanders, together with a
list of the officers and men who rendered themselves personally worthy
of notice during the engagement, I will forward as soon as received.
I have the honor to be, colonel, most respectfully, your obedient serv
ant,
J. M. BRANNAN,
Brigadier-General, Commanding.
Lieut. Col. W. P. PRENTICE,
Asst. Adjt. Gen., Dept. of the South, Hilton Head, S. C.
HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE SOUTH,
Hilton Head, Port Royal, S. C., November C, 1862.
GENERAL: I herewith transmit the reports of Brig. Gen. .A. H.
Terry and Col. T. H. Good, Forty-seventh Regiment Pennsylvania
Volunteers, who commanded brigades during the late expedition,
under my command, to Pocotaligo, S. C., and would beg respectfully
to bring them to the favorable notice of the department for their gal
lant and meritorious conduct during the engagement ot October "1
also Col. J. L. Chatfield, Sixth Regiment Connecticut Volunteers, win
commanded -the First Brigade until severely wounded, in the ear
part of the engagement, while gallantly leading it to t
praise is also due to General Terry for his care and unremitting exer
tions during the night of the L'2d in superintending the removal
wounded to" the transports. , v ,
I also forward the report of Col. E. W. Serrell, First NewTark Vol
unteer Engineers, chief engineer of the department, of
, tA
Lieut. S. M. Smith, Third Kegiment Hhodo .Island \ olnnteer Art
who was sent up before cln.vlif.-ht on the KM to Cuthbert s
the Pocotaligo Creek, to capture the rebel picket* there sta m I
In addition to those officers mentioned m my "'Port M« '
tiou I have great pleasm-e,_on_the recommendation o
'lhird New Hampshire Volunteers.
154 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVL
commanders, in bringing to the favorable consideration of the depart
ment the following officers and men, who rendered themselves specially
worthy of notice by their bravery and praiseworthy conduct during the
entire expedition and the engagements attending it: First Lieut, E.
Gittings, wounded, lieutenant Company E, Third U. S. Artillery, com
manding section, who served his pieces with great coolness and judg-
"a rebel battery; Lieut. Col. G. W. Alex-
incut under the heavy fire of
ad jut ant -general
Connecticut Volunteers, and Second Lieut, Martin S. James, Third
killed. Company G, Forty-seventh Eegiment Pennsylvania Volunteers;
First Lieut. W. H. II. Hangen, adjutant, wounded, Forty-seventh Regi
ment Pennsylvania Volunteers; First Lieutenant Minnich, Company
B, Forty-seventh Regiment Pennsylvania Volunteers; First Lieut. W.
W. Geety, severely wounded, commanding Company H, Forty-seventh
Pennsylvania Volunteers; Second Lieutenant Breneinan, Company H,
Forty-seventh Regiment Pennsylvania Volunteers; Private Michael
Larkins, wounded, Company C, Forty-seventh Regiment Pennsylvania
Volunteers; Captain Bennett, Company E, Fifty-fifth Regiment Penn
sylvania Volunteers; First Lieut. D. W. Fox, commanding Company
A, Fifty-fifth Regiment Pennsylvania Volunteers; First Lieutenant
Metzger, adjutant Fifty-fifth Regiment Pennsylvania Volunteers; First
Sergt. H. W.Fox, Company K, Fifty-fifth Regiment Pennsylvania Vol
unteers; Private Peter McGuire, Company A, Fifty-fifth Regiment Penn
sylvania Volunteers; Lieut. S. S. Stevens, Sixth Regiment Connecticut
Volunteers, acting assistant adjutant- general First Brigade; Commis
sary Sergt William H. Johnson, Sixth Regiment Connecticut Volun
teers; Sergeant [Charles H.] Grogan, Private G. Platt, and Private A.
Regiment Connecticut Volunteers; Artificer Patrick Walsh, Company
B, First U. S. Artillery; Sergt, Michael Maimon, Light Company E,
Third U. S. Artillery; Sergt. N. M. Edwards, First New York Volun
teer Engineers, and Sergts. Henry Mehles, Lionel Auyan, and Fisher,
First New York Volunteer Engineers.
I would also mention that I am much indebted to. Mr. Cooley, sutler
of the Sixth Connecticut Volunteers, for his care and attention to the
wounded and his exertions in carrying them oft' the field and placing
them on the transports.
I inclose a complete and accurate list* of the killed, wounded, and
missing during the entire expedition, giving their names, rank, com
panies, and regiments, with a description of the nature of their wounds.
I have the honor to be, general, most respectfully, your obedient
servant,
J. M. BRANNAN,
Brigadier- General, Commanding Department.
Brig. Gen. LORENZO THOMAS, Adjutant- General U. S. Army.
* Embodied in revised statement, p. 148.
CHAP. XXVI.] SKIRMISH AT COOSAWHATCHIE, S. C., ETC. 155
*STO. s.
Reports of Col. Edward W. Serrell, First Neic York Engineers.
HEADQUARTERS UNITED STATES FORCES,
Broad River, 8. C., October 22, 1862.
CAPTAIN: I have the honor to report, for the information of the gen
eral commanding the forces, that, agreeably to the orders of the major-
general commanding the department, I reported to Brigadier-General
Brannan this morning at 8 o'clock with 250 enlisted men of the Volun
teer Engineers and 15 officers, constituting the engineer force. Fifty-
four men and two officers were assigned to duty with Colonel Barton,
of the Forty-eighth New York Volunteers, and furnished with tools
and the proper appliances for destroying railroad structures. This
detachment was placed under the orders of Capt. Samuel C. Eaton, of
the Volunteer Engineers, and has not yet been heard from. The re
maining forces of the Engineers were placed under the immediate
orders of Lieut. Col. James F. Hall, of the Volunteer Engineers. I
was assigned to duty .on the commanding general's staff.
The line of march was from Mackay's Point, on Broad Eiver, on the
direct road toward Old Pocotaligo. The general direction is about
north from the Point, and the road is on the right bank of the Poco
taligo Kiver, and begins at the confluence of the Pocotaligo and Broad
Elvers, and lies from one to three-quarters of a mile from this stream.
The country through which the road runs is a rolling sandy plain,
except at two points, where it crosses marshes and small streams, the
first of which is about 5J miles from the Point, and is on Caston's
plantation; the second is about 6J miles, and the plantation is called
Frampton. At both of these points serious engagements took place
with the rebels. The Engineer troops were engaged from about 10
o'clock until after sunset in making and repairing several small bridges
and keeping the road in order.
ten;
bridge
The point reached by the troops
bridge over the Pocotaligo, on the road leading from Old Pocotaligo to
Coosawhatchie, This bridge was destroyed by the rebels as the.y re
treated over it into their earthworks on the easterly side. Timber tor
the purpose of rebuilding this bridge was prepared by the Engineers,
and was ready to be put together when the retreat was ordered,
point is within about 1J miles of the Charleston and Savannah Kail-
road. Officers in th<f advance report having seen the cars passing. A
small lunette, that had been abandoned, was observed on the southerly
side of the inarsh on the high ground near Caston's.
I have the honor to be, your most obedient servant,
EDWAED W. SEEEELL,
Col of Vol. Engineers, and Chief Engineer Dept. of the South.
Capt. Louis J. LAMBERT,
Asst. Adjt. Gen., U. 8. Forces, Broad River, 8. C.
OCTOBER 23, 1862.
I cannot too highly compliment Lieutenant-Colonel Hall for his ; zeal
and efficiency in caring for the wounded of the whole army during t
night. •
1f)fi COASTS OF S. C., (H., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. ICHAP. XXVI.
Captain Eaton has just reported that the detachment commanded
by him, under the orders of Colonel Barton, of the Forty-eighth Bew
York Volunteers, destroyed a portion of the railroad at Coosawhatclne,
and covered the return of the Forty-eighth New York by tearing up
and destroying the bridge on the road back.
Your obedient servant,
EDWAED W. SEEEELL,
Colonel Volunteer Engineers.
Capt. Louis J. LAMBERT,
Assistant Adjutant- General.
No. 6.
Reports of Lieut. Col. James F. Hall, First New York Engineers.
NEW YORK EEGIMENT VOLUNTEER ENGINEERS,
Hilton Head, S. C^ October 23, 1862.
COLONEL: I have the honor to report to General Terry concerning
the part taken by the battalion under my command in the late fight at
Pocotaligo, a copy of which has been forwarded to your headquarters.
In addition to this report I would respectfully call your attention to
the inclosed letter from Acting Adjutant Dalrymple and my indorse
ment thereon.* Lieutenant Dalrymple's services were most valuable,
and he has proved himself worthy of the advancement he has received.
It would perhaps be unjust to others to speak of any officer in par
ticular where all did their duty so well.
In addition to the duties in the field 1 would call your attention to
the voluntary labors in caring for the wounded. This duty was per
formed almost entirely by the men of our regiment. Sergeant Collins,
of Company A, had the immediate charge of the men, and was untir
ing in his labors until the last wounded man was cared for. This work
was done in an orderly and proper manner.
I know that many a blessing has been asked for the Engineers, who,
notwithstanding the extreme fatigue of the day, gave the whole night
to assisting their wounded fellow-soldiers. In'this labor Acting Adju
tant Dalrymple was ever present and most efficient.
I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
JAMES F. HALL,
Lieutenant- Colonel.
E. W. SERRELL,
Colonel of Volunteer Engineers. *
NEW YORK EEGIMENT VOLUNTEER ENGINEERS,
Hilton Head, S. C., October 24, 1862.
GENERAL: I have the honor to report the safe arrival of the bat
talion under my command.
^ The missing man was found in the detachment under command of
Captain Eaton. One man was slightlv hurt by splinters, not, however,
unfitting him for duty.
I would respectfully report that my battalion repaired the roads,
* Not found.
CHA,-. XXVI.] SKIRMISH AT COOSAWHATCHIE, S. C., ETC. 157
bridges, &c and pressed forward with all the dispatch that was
Bible with the engineering tools and implements, which, in addilO ",
their arms and equipments, had to be carried by the men. The bridges
at the several points where they had been destroyed by the ^ in N
were rebuilt and made passable. The putting down of the bridge al
Frampton's plantation by Actg. Lieut. N. M. Edwards was done umler
heavy fire By direction of Colonel Serrell, chief .engineer, I prepared
whic ' for
I have to report that the officers and men did their duty well, and
after the arrival in camp they assisted during the entire night in caring
for the dead and wounded.
The necessity of leaving detachments at various points for road re
pairs necessarily kept our force separated; but both in the advance
and retreat these detachments rapidly closed up to the main body.
I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
JAMES P. HALL,
Lieutenant-Colonel, Comdg. Battalion ofN. Y. Vol. Engwieers.
Brigadier-General TERRY.
No. 7.
Report of Col. Tilghman H. Good, Forty-seventh Pennsylvania Infantry,
commanding First Brigade, Tenth Army Corps.
HDQRS. FORTY-SEVENTH EEGT. PA. VOLS.,
Beaufort, & C., October 25, 1862.
SIR : I have the honor to submit the following report of the part
taken by the First Brigade in the battles of October 22 :
After meeting the enemy in his first position he was driven back by
the skirmishing line, consisting of two companies of the Sixth Connect
icut, one of the Forty-seventh Pennsylvania, and one of the Fifty -fifth
Pennsylvania, under my command. Here the enemy only fired a few
rounds of shot and shell. He then retreated and assumed another
position, and immediately opened fire. Colonel Chath'eld, then in com
mand of the brigade, ordered the Forty- seventh Pennsylvania forward
to me, with orders to charge. I immediately charged and drove the
eneni3r from the second position. The Sixth Connecticut was deployed
in my rear and left; the Fifty-fifth Pennsylvania on my right, and the
Fourth New Hampshire in the rear of the Fifty-fifth, both in close col
umn by divisions, all under a heavy fire of shell and canister. These
regiments then crossed the causeway by the flank and moved close up
to the woods. Here they were halted, with orders to support the artil
lery. After the enemy had ceased firing the Fourth Mew Hampshire
was ordered to move up the road in the rear of the artillery and two
companies of the Forty-seventh Pennsylvania to follow this regiment.
The Sixth Connecticut followed up, and the Fifty-fifth moved up
through the woods. At this juncture Colonel Chatfield fell, seriously
wounded, and Lieutenant-Colonel Speidel was also wounded.
The casualties in the Forty-seventh Pennsylvania amounted to J
men. As yet I am unable to learn the loss of the entire brigade.
The enemy having fled, the Fourth New Hampshire and the
fifth Pennsylvania followed in close pursuit. During this
158 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVL
Forty- seventh Pennsylvania and the Sixth Connecticut halted and
a-aiii organized, after which they followed. On coming up to the eu-
ga«-emeut 1 assumed command of the brigade, and found the forces
arranged in the following order: The Fourth New Hampshire was de
ployed as skirmishers along the entire front, and the Fifty -fifth deployed
in line of battle on the left side of the road, immediately in the rear of
the Fourth New Hampshire. I then ordered the Sixth Connecticut to
d«-ploy in the rear of the Fifty-fifth Pennsylvania and the Forty-seventh
Pennsylvania to deploy on the right side of the roacj. in line of battle
and relieve the Seventh Connecticut. I then ordered the Fourth New
Hampshire, which had spent all its ammunition, back under cover on
the road in the woods. The enemy meantime kept up a terrific fire of
grape and musketry, to which we replied with terrible effect. At this
point the orders were given to retire, and the Forty-seventh Pennsyl
vania and Seventh Connecticut formed the rear guard. 1 then ordered
the Forty-seventh Pennsylvania to keep its position and the Sixth
Connecticut to march by the flank into the road and to the rear, the
Fourth New Hampshire and Fifty-fifth Pennsylvania to follow. The
troops of the Second Brigade were meanwhile retiring. After the whole
column was in motion and a line of battle established by the Seventh
Connecticut about 1,000 yards in the rear of the Forty -seventh Penn
sylvania I ordered the Forty-seventh to retire by the flank and estab
lish a line of battle 1,000 yards in the rear of the Seventh Connecticut;
after which the Seventh Connecticut moved by the flank to the rear
and established a line of battle 1,000 yards in the rear of the Forty-
seventh, and thus retiring, alternately establishing lines, until we
reached Frampton Creek, where we were relieved front this duty by
the Fourth New Hampshire. We arrived at the landing at 3 o'clock
on the morning of the 23d instant.
The casualties of the Sixth Connecticut are 34 in killed and wounded
and the Forty-seventh Pennsylvania 112 in killed and wounded. As to
the remaining regiments I have as yet received no report.
1 am, captain, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
T. H. GOOD,
Colonel Forty-seventh Pennsylvania Volunteers, Commanding.
Captain LAMBERT,
Assistant Adjutant-General.
No. 8.
Report of Maj. Lorenzo Meeker, Sixth Connecticut Infantry.
HDQRS. SIXTH EEGT. CONNECTICUT VOLUNTEERS,
Beaufort, S. C., October 24, 1862.
COLONEL: I have the honor to report that, in compliance with pre
vious orders, the Sixth Eegiment Connecticut Volunteers, about 450
strong, embarked from Beaufort at 1.30 p. m. October 21, and pro
ceeded to Mackay's Point, where a landing was effected early on the
morning of October 22, and the regiment placed under the command of
Lieut. Col. John Speidel, Colonel Chatfield being assigned to the com
mand of the brigade. We inarched several miles into the interior, with
Companies D and H in advance as skirmishers, until the enemy were
met and the first engagement commenced.
The regiment, within a few minutes of the opening of the battle, was
CHAP. XXVI,] SKIRMISH AT COOSAWHATCHIE, S. C., ETC.
ordered to the front on the left of the line, and soon after deployed, and
advanced in line of battle into the woods to support a skirmishing
party, where we were met by a terrific shower of shell, grape, and can
ister. The greatest portion of the casualties sustained by the regiment
throughout the day was occasioned here. At this point Colonel Chat-
field was severely wounded, and almost at the same moment Lieutenant-
Colonel Speidel, while bravely leading the regiment forward, was also
severely wounded, and consequently obliged to retire from the field.
The regiment, shortly before the enemy abandoned his position, was
ordered to move back and reformed in line of battle in the cotton field
to the rear, when it again moved forward with the column to the front.
On reaching the second battle ground we were ordered into line in the
woods to support the Fifty fifth Pennsylvania Volunteers, arid remained
in this position until the order was given to the command to retire,
when we gradually fell back in line until withdrawn.
The casualties sustained were 5 enlisted men killed, 4 commissioned
officers wounded, and 25 enlisted men wounded, several mortally.
All, both officers and men, performed their duty coolly, faithfully,
and bravely, with scarcely an exception, and where all did so well it
were invidious to mention individual instauc.es.
The whole strength of the regiment was not engaged, owing to a
portion being on picket duty on Ladies Island and at Capers7 planta
tion, Port Eoyal Island, and not relieved in season to embark on the
expedition.
I am, colonel, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
LOEENZO MEEKEE,
Major, Commanding Regiment.
Col. T. H. GOOD,
Forty-seventh Pennsylvania Volunteers, Gomdg. Brigade.
No. 9.
Report of Col. Louis BelL Fourth New Hampshire Infantry.
CAMP OF FOURTH NEW HAMPSHIRE YOLTJNTEERS,
October 24, 1802.
SIR : I have the honor to submit a report of the part taken by the
Fourth New Hampshire Volunteers in the action of the 22d :
On coming under fire I was ordered to form close column by divis
ion, which I did, and the regiment remained in close column for
fifteen minutes, exposed to a very annoying fire ot spheric
We then deployed on the left of the Forty-seventh Pennsylvania «ef
ment. The enemy having been driven from his first posit )ii, 1 was
ordered to form column by company in the wood on the rig
causeway and be ready to charge. The wood proved so thick t
could not move in it, and the ground in front being utterly impass
I deployed my regiment on the edge of the woods.
At about 2Vclock I received an order to drive the enem.> from
position he then occupied. I deployed five companies on the e] of 1 1 ;
road and four on the right and advanced in line of **%.™
sharp firing on the left for a few minutes the enemy ret d. 1 inaing
the ground impassable in front, I moved across the cam* . } >> «»
flank. Three companies passed and formed in lino on tin" :
COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVI.
while the fourth company (G) was ordered to halt and repair the bridge
(which the enemy had partially destroyed), so that it should be passa
ble ti »r art illery. The artillery having passed over I deployed the whole
n-iim -nt as skirmishers, and we acted as the support of the artillery
from this place to the place where the artillery finally halted. After
lirinu- ; s skirmishers for a few minutes at the most advanced post oc-
cupied by the forces we were relieved by some other regiment, and I
sent orders to have the regiment reformed in line. At this time I was
temporarily disabled. Lieutenant-Colonel Sleeper moved the regiment
to the fronton the left of the Sixth Connecticut Regiment, where it
remained for some half an hour, when Lieutenant-Colonel Sleeper was
ordered to move the regiment into the road, where it remained a few
minutes and was again ordered into the wood at the left.
At about 5 o'clock . Lieutenant-Colonel Sleeper received the order to
retire. I rejoined and resumed command of the regiment at the cause
way. .My regiment passed the causeway and took up a position in
the wood on the right. Being ordered to act as rearguard, we moved
(alter the other troops had passed) to the ground used as a hospital. I
caused all the scattered arms and accouterments to be collected as we
retired and all other property 1 destroyed.
Owing to the large number of wounded in front our march was very
slow. Before we reached the shore more than half of my regiment
we're at work conveying the wounded. I cannot refrain from mention
ing that in many instances we found wounded men by the road-side
with only one or two men with them, the rest of the men detailed to
carry them having deserted them. No wounded man was left behind.
My regiment arrived in camp at 4 o'clock in the morning.
I am proud to be able to say that I had no stragglers from my regi
ment and that no officer or soldier flinched.
1 have the honor to inclose a list* of the killed and wounded in the
Fourth New Hampshire Regiment, and also a list of arms and accouter-
ii) cuts left on the field and now in our possession.
1 have the honor to be, your obedient servant,
LOUIS BELL,
Colonel Fourth Regiment New Hampshire Volunteers.
Capt. Louis J. LAMBERT,
Assistant Adjutant- General.
No. 10.
Report of Col. Tilghman H. Good, Forty-seventh Pennsylvania Infantry.
HDQRS. FORTY-SEVENTH PENNSYLVANIA VOLUNTEERS,
Beaufort, S. 0., October 24, 1862.
SIR: I have the honor to submit the following report of the part
taken by the Forty-seventh Regiment Pennsylvania Volunteers in the
action or October 22:
Bight companies, comprising 480 men, embarked on the steamship
Ben De Ford, and two companies, of 120 men, on the Marblehead, at 2
p. in October 21. With this force I arrived at Mackay's Landing be-
layhght the following morning. At daylight I was ordered to dis-
* Embodied in revised statement, p. 148.
CHAP. XXVI.] SKIRMISH AT COOSAWHATCIIIE, S. C., ETC. 161
embark my regiment and move forward across the first causeway -m.l
take a position, and there await the arrival of the- other forces ' The
two companies of my regiment on board of the Marblehead had not yet
arrived, consequently I had but eight companies of my regiment with
me at this juncture.
At 12 m. I was ordered to take the advance with four companies one
of the Forty-seventh and one of the Fifty-fifth Pennsylvania Volunteers
and two of the Sixth Connecticut, and to deploy two of them as skir
mishers and move forward. After moving forward about 2 miles I dis
cerned some 30 or 40 of the enemy's cavalry ahead, but they fled as we
advanced. About 2 miles farther on I discovered two pieces of artillery
and some cavalry, occupying a position about three-quarters of a mile
ahead in the road. I immediately called for a regiment, but seeing
that the position was not a strong one I made a charge with the skir
mishing line. The enemy, after firing a few rounds of shell, fled. I
followed up as rapidly as possible to within about 1 mile of Frampton
Creek. In front of this stream is a strip of woods about 500 yards wide,
and in front of the woods a marsh of about 200 yards, with a small
stream, running through it parallel with the woods. A causeway also
extends across the swamp, to the right of which the swamp is impassa
ble. Here the enemy opened a terrible fire of shell from the rear of the
woods. I again called for a regiment, and my regiment came forward
very promptly. I immediately deployed in line of battle and charged
forward to the woods, three companies on the right and the other five
on the left of the road. I moved forward in quick-time, and when
within about 500 yards of the woods the enemy opened a galling fire
of infantry from it. I ordered donble-quick and raised a cheer, and
with a grand yell the officers and men moved forward in splendid order
and glorious determination, driving the enemy from this position.
On reaching the woods I halted and reorganized my line. The three
companies on the right o/ the road (in consequence of not being able to
get through the marsh) did not reach the woods, and were moved by
Lieutenant-Colonel Alexander by the flank on the causeway. During
this time a terrible fire of grape and canister was opened by the enemy
through the woods, hence I did not wait for the three companies, but
immediately charged with the five at hand directly through-the woods;
but in consequence of the denseness of the woods, which was a perfect
matting of vines and brush, it was almost impossible to get through, but
by dint of untiring assiduity the men worked their way through nobly.
At this point I was called out of the woods by Lieutenant Bacon, aide de
camp, who gave the order, "The general wants you to charge through
the woods." I replied that I was then charging, and that the men wen-
working their way through as fast as possible. Just then I saw
two companies of my regiment which embarked on the Marblehead
coining up to one of the companies that was unable to get through the
swamp on the right. I went out to meet them, hastening them forward,
with a view of re-enforcing the five already engaged on the lett ot the
road in the woods; but the latter having worked their way success
through and driven the enemy from his position, I moved the two
panics up the road through the woods until 1 came up wit
™IP.PL Thfi two p,omr>auies on the right side of the road, under Liei
11 R R — VOL XIV
162 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVI.
Breneman, of Company H, with a squad of men, to collect the killed
and wounded. They promptly and faithfully attended to this important
duty, deserving much praise for the efficiency and coolness they dis
played during the fight and in the discharge of this humane and worthy
trust.
The casualties in this engagement were 96. Captain Junker, of Com
pany K; Captain Mickley, of Company G, and Lieutenant Geety, of
Company H, fell mortally wounded while gallantly leading their re
spective companies on.
I cannot speak too highly of the conduct of both officers and men.
They all performed deeds of valor, and rushed forward to duty and
danger with a spirit and energy worthy of veterans.
The rear forces coming up passed my regiment and pursued the
enemy. When I had my regiment again placed in order, and hearing
the boom of cannon, I immediately followed up, and, upon reaching the
scene of action, I was ordered to deploy my regiment on the right side
of the wood, move forward along the edge of it, ana relieve the Seventh
Connecticut Regiment. This I promptly obeyed. The position here
occupied by the enemy was on the opposite side of tbe Pocotaligo Creek,
with a marsh on either side of it, and about 800 yards distant from the
opposite wood, where the enemy had thrown up rifle pits all along its
edge.
On my arrival the enemy had ceased firing; but after the lapse of a
few minutes they commenced to cheer and hurrah for the Twenty-sixth
South Carolina. We distinctly saw this regiment come up in double-
quick and the men rapidly jumping into the pits. ' We immediately
opened fire upon them with terrible eifect, and saw their men falling
by scores. In return they opened a galling fire upon us. I ordered the
men under cover and to keep up the fire. During this time our forces
commenced to retire. I kept my position until all our forces were on
the march, and then gave one volley and retired by flank in the road
at double-quick about 1,000 yards in the rear <ff the Seventh Connecti
cut. This regiment was formed about 1,000 yards in the rear of my
former position. We jointly formed the rear guard 6f our forces and
alternately retired in the above manner.
My casualties here amounted to 15 men.
We arrived at Framptou (our first battle ground) at 8 p. m. Here
my regiment was relieved from further rear-guard duty by the Fourth
New Hampshire Regiment. This gave me the desired opportunity to
carry my dead and wounded from the field and convey them back to
the lauding. I arrived at the above place at 3 o'clock the following
morning.
1 am, captain, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
T. H. GOOD,
Colonel.
Captain LAMBERT,
Assistant Adjutant- General.
No. 11.
%
Report of Col. Richard White, Fiftij-fifth Pennsylvania Infantry.
CAMP FIFTY-FIFTH PENNSYLVANIA VOLUNTEERS.
Beaufort, S. £., October 26, 1$62.
SIR : In obedience to orders from your headquarters, in regard to the
CHAP. XXVI.] SKIRMISH AT COOSAWHATCHIE, S. C., ETC. 163
action of my command in the battles of October 22, I would respect
fully report that after disembarking at Mackay's Landing my com
mand was assigned its place, being on the left of the First Brigade
Colonel Chatfield in command. Tn this order it marched for some miles!
companies being detailed from time to time, with orders to report to
Colonel Good, commanding the advance. Near Frampton the command
was ordered up on double-quick, which was promptly obeyed. At this
point it came under a very heavy and destructive fire of shell and can
ister from the enemy's batteries. The order was received to form in
column and advance; and, although the most of the command had
never been exposed to a cannonade so severe and so sustained and
men were falling rapidly from its effects, yet the order was executed
with admirable promptitude and precision, the officers, with one excep
tion, setting a noble example, which was imitated by the rank and tile.
The order was then received to get under cover for a time, while our
artillery operated against the enemy's guns. Then the order was sent
to charge. Together with the Forty-seventh Pennsylvania Volunteers
and Sixth Connecticut my command rushed in, and although the ground
was exceedingly difficult, covered with a dense thicket, with a swamp
in front, our men, with remarkable energy, at once overcame these obsta
cles, swept over the hostile position, and rapidly pursued the fleeing
enemy. The pursuit was continued to Pocotaligo, where the enemy had
again taken up a strong position, broken the bridge over the creek in
his front, and while re-enforcements were arriving to his support opened
a heavy fire of cannon and musketry. My command, having come up
at the double-quick, was ordered into position on our left. In obedi
ence to an order for two companies of sharpshooters to operate against
the enemy's batteries, Company A, under command of Lieut. D. \V.
Fox, and Company B, Captain Shearer, were thrown forward. Tlirx,.
companies, well armed with good weapons, went in with the greatest
enthusiasm and their deadly fire soon caused the enemy's cannonade
to slacken, and more than held their own in the contest with the enemy's
sharpshooters. This, being carried on at short range, was quite blood v.
Company A lost among others Sergeant [Samuel] Herter, who was
shot dead while taking aim, and its remaining sergeants, [Abram]
Alstead, [Patrick F.] Hodge, and [Harry] Marlett, were wounded,
These companies, having exhausted their .ammunition, had to be re-
lieved. First Lieut. D. W. Fox distinguished himself by the efficient
manner in which he fought his men.
Company K, armed with the Springfield musket, was sent up t.»
relieve. It was well led by Lieutenant Saupp and Acting Second Lieut .
H. W. Fox. The latter in particular behaved well. The loss in this
company is one that will be felt. It includes First Sergt. William L.
Martin, who was shot dead, and Sergt. [G. B.] Leech, who was i
\VO11 Tl (1 Ofl
Company D, Captain Lyons, and Company E, Captain Bennett were
also ordered forward to support our battery, but being armed with
altered smooth-bore muskets their fire could not compete with t
the enemy's splendidly armed sharpshooters. They were brmi
These gallant men fulfilled every duty practicable to men in then > t na
tion. Company D fired as long as they could load their muskets, wluc
after a few rounds became so foul that a cartridge could
rammed down, and even then many of the cones were blou n o t i
seats. The experience of Company E in the matter ot arms is '!'>»•
as that of Company D. In the latter company the
ball through his sleeve and four of his men were
164 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVL
ett, of Company E, a noble, cliivalric young officer, beloved by
icn, was killed on the spot, and two of his sergeants, W. Beiiae-
Bennett,
his men,
man and [George P.] Parry, were severely Bounded.
I trust that I am within the line of duty in respectfully claiming the
attention of the general commanding to the fact that the usefulness of
my command was limited by its armament. So far as it was equipped
with rifles and Springfield muskets so far was it of account. I was
compelled to withdraw gallant men and capital marksmen because the
weapons they carried were worse than useless. True our bayonets
might have counted for something, but that was the fault of the enemy,
not ours. He did not wait to give us an opportunity to handle them.
Late in the evening I was ordered to withdraw my command beyond
the second line of defense and from there to Mackay's Landing. This
was accomplished in the best of order. My command remained there
until all the troops had embarked, being the last to quit the spot.
I think I would fail in my duty did I not express the gratitude of
the command to the general commanding the whole expedition for the
gentle and provident care exercised by him. toward the wounded. The
hardy soldiers have found a new tie of attachment to their leader.
My second in command, Major Filler, manifested much bravery. Ad
jutant Metzger and Lieutenant George, regimental quartermaster, were
of much use to me during the action. Adjutant Metzger manifested
the qualities which should characterize the accomplished field officer,
and both he and Lieutenant George were especially active in the trans
mission of orders and bringing off the wounded.
With much respect, I have the honor to be, colonel, your most obe
dient 'servant,
EICHAED WHITE,
Colonel, Commanding Fifty -fifth Pennsylvania Volunteers.
Col. T. H. GOOD,
Commanding F.irst Brigade, Tenth Army Corps.
No. 12.
Report of Brig. Gen. Alfred H. Terry, U. 8. Army, commanding Second
Brigade, Tenth Army Corps.
HEADQUARTER^ U. S. FORCES,
Hilton Head, 8. C., November 3, 1862.
CAPTAIN : I have the honor to submit the following report of the
part taken by the troops under my command in the expedition to Poco-
tali-o on the 21st, 22d, and 23d ultimo :
My force consisted of 514 officers and men of the Seventh Eegiment
Connecticut Volunteers, under Col. Joseph E.' Hawley, temporarily or-
ganized as six companies ; 480 officers and men of the Third Eegiment
New Hampshire Volunteers, under Col. John H. Jackson, organized
x companies; 420 officers and men of the Seventy-sixth Eegiment
nsylvauia Volunteers, under Col. D. C. Strawbridge, also organ
ized a> MX companies; four companies of the Third Ehode Island Ar-
tilli-ry, under Maj. H. Eogers, jr., and a section of Hamilton's battery
E), ot the Third Artillery, U. S. Army. A detachment of the Vohm-
Engineer Eegiment, 250 strong, under the command of Col. E. W.
311, also accompanied the troops from this post. On arriving at
CIIAI-. XXVI.] SKIRMISH AT COOSAWIIATCUIE, P. C., ETC. 1G5
Mackay's Point Colonel Serrell was attached to the staff of the ceiii-ril
commanding, and Lieut. Col. James P. Hall, upon whom the command
of the detachment devolved, was ordered to report to me
The embarkation from fchis point was effected during the afternoon
of the 21st and was completed at dusk, the troops being distributed on
the transports as follows : The Seventh Connecticut on the transport
Boston ; the Third New Hampshire on the Boston and the "nnlxnts
Patroon and Uncas; the Seventy-sixth Pennsylvania Volunteers on
the transport Flora and the gunboat Water Witch ; the Third Rhode
Island Artillery on the gunboats Marblehead and Vixen ; the Yolnnt«-i
Engineers on the armed transport George Washington, and the section
of artillery on one of the flats constructed for that purpose. After the
embarkation the vessels of the expedition moved in their places pre
scribed by the order of sailing.
Between 9 and 10 o'clock in the evening I received a verbal <*rder
from the brigadier-general commanding to detail 107 officers and men
to embark in the boats of the men-of-war, and proceed to and beyond
Mackay's Point and endeavor to capture the enemy's outposts in that
vicinity. In accordance with this order I detailed for this service 2
officers and 75 men from the Seventh Connecticut Volunteers and 2
officers and 32 men of the Third New Hampshire Volunteers. Captain
Gray, of the Seventh Connecticut, with 95 men, was directed to pro
ceed up Broad Kiver, beyond Mackay's Point, and land in the rear of
the pickets and cut off their retreat in the direction of Pocotaligo.
The remaining 12 men, under command of Lieut. S. M. Smith, of the
Third Eegiment New Hampshire Volunteers, were directed to proceed
up (he Pocotaligo Eiver and capture the pickets upon Cuthbert's Island.
I have received no written report from Captain Gray, but J learned
from him verbally that, under the guidance of the negro guide fur
nished to him, he ascended Broad River some 3 miles above Mackay's
Point, a distance much beyond the proper point for a landing, and \vhen
the error was discovered it was too late to effect his object. Lieuten
ant Smith was more fortunate; he landed undiscovered, and by a judi
cious disposition of his men succeeded in capturing 1 lieutenant and 3
men of the enemy, together with their horses. I inclose you Lieutenant
Smith's report.*
Owing to the sailing signal being unobserved or misunderstood much
confusion and delay occurred in the movements of the vessels on which
my command was embarked, and they did not arrive at the point of de
barkation until long after the anticipated time. The Boston, on which
were my own headquarters, did not arrive until nearly 8 a. in. of the
22d, and the gunboats Marblehead and Water Witch were delayed
until a very late period of the day.
Upon my arrival I found that the debarkation of the troops already
arrived was proceeding, and I immediately commenced landing the men
upon my own vessel.
I here received orders from the general commanding to form my own
brigade in columns, right in front, immediately in rear of the First
Brigade, and to put the whole force in motion toward Pocotaligo.
landing I found that the First Brigade, under Colonel Chattield, wit
the exception of the Fourth Eegiment New Hampshire Volunteers, had
already moved forward, and that the battery of my brigade and the one
company of the Third Rhode Island Artillery, which had arrived, had
accompanied them. Lieutenant Henry, with the battery of
* Not found.
166 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVI.
Brigade, ami Lieut. Lloyd Phoenix, U. S. Navy, with three boat howit
zers, here reported to inc.
I immediately directed Colonel Bell, of the Fourth Xew Hampshire
Volunteers, to 'move his regiment forward, and, as soon as my own
that the First Brigade was some distance in advance, I sent orders to
Colonel Chat field to halt his command until my own men should come
up. The whole force being united, Lieutenant Henry's section of artil
lery joined the First Brigade ; Lieutenant's Gittings' section joined my
own,' and the company of Ehode Island Artillery, under Capt. J. J.
Coinstock, was assigned to duty with thebattery of boat howitzers. The
column was then put in motion, but immediately thereafter I received
orders from the general commanding to halt, throw out pickets, and
await his arrival. The point at which this halt was made was some
L'.l or :; miles from the landing. On the general's arrival the whole force
advanced, marching by the flank. Approaching Frampton's, the sound
of artillery was heard at the front, and I soon received orders to form
col n inn and move forward at the double-quick to support the First
1 In uade, then engaged with the enemy. I here detailed half a company
of the Seventh Connecticut Volunteers as a hospital guard, and the
remainder of the same company, under Captain Tourtellotte, to assist
the boat howitzers.
In obedience to further orders from the commanding general my
leading regiment (the Seventy-sixth Pennsylvania) was thrown into the
woods, 200 yards to the left of the road, to protect the left flank of the
first line, and the Seventh Connecticut and Third New Hampshire were
deployed on the right and left, immediately in the rear of the batteries,
which were maintaining a rapid fire. The brigade remained in this
position for some time, the men lying down and thus escaping serious
damage from the enemy's fire. Having received orders to that effect,
J moved forward a short distance beyond the guns, while a charge
upon the battery in our front was executed by troops of the First Bri
gade. The enemy being driven from their position, I was ordered to
again advance, and I attempted to do so in line ; but finding the ground
in front densely wooded, and intersected by a marsh that could only be
crossed by a causeway, the regiments were brought into the road by
the flank. After passing the causeway and reaching the firm and open
ground beyond 1 threw them again into column, the Third New Hamp
shire and Seventh Connecticut on the right of the road and the Seventy -
sixth Pennsylvania on the left.
Having advanced some distance in this formation the ground again
became broken by woods and marshes, and I was again obliged to bring
my men into the road and advance by the flank. Soon after coming-
in to the road I received orders from the general commanding to send
one regiment to the front on the double-quick, and to post another
regiment, with one piece of artillery, on an obscure road, running into
the Pocotaligo road from the Coosawhatchie road, so as to protect the
left of our forces from any attack from that direction. I sent forward
the Seventy-sixth Pennsylvania, and went personally to post the Third
JSew Hampshire and one boat howitzer in the directed position. Hav
ing accomplished this and coming to the front, I found the Seventy-
sixth Pennsylvania Volunteers and Seventh Connecticut already de-
Hoyed on the left and right of the road, just within the edge of the
wood \yhich borders the marshy banks of the Pocotaligo Kiver, beyond
CHAP. XXVI.] SKIRMISH AT COOSAWHATCHIE, S. C., ETC. 167
which, the enemy had taken position, the batteries being on the road a
little m advance of the line. Soon after ray arrival our artillery tire \v-is
much diminished, owing to the exhaustion of the ammunition*, and the
fire of the enemy correspondingly increased. I therefore ordered for
ward the flank companies of the Seventh Connecticut, armed with
Sharps breech-loading rifles, to open upon them. This order was obeyed
with alacrity, and such wa^ the accuracy and tremendous rapidity of
their fire that the opposing battery was completely silenced and the
enemy's infantry were able to make only a feeble reply. At about this
time the two companies of the Seventy sixth Pennsylvania Volunteer,
under command of Captain Hicks, which were embarked on the gun
boat Water Witch, came up, and were formed on the left of the artil
lery, between it and their own regiment, where they did good service.
When the enemy's fire slackened I gave the order to cease firing. As
soon as this was done the enemy's again sprang up. I then commenced
firing from the whole line, ceasing from time to time as theirs was con
trolled and again renewing it as theirs revived in consequence of the
cessation of ours or of the arrival of their re-enforcements. During this ,
time a considerable body of cavalry appeared on this side of the river,
threatening our left flank. Colonel Strawbridge, whose regiment formed
our left, promptly wheeled up two companies, opened fire, and drove
them back. They did not again advance during the day.
Shortly after the fire was first opened I endeavored to ascertain
whether the river was fordable, and for this purpose directed Colonel
Hawley, of the Seventh Connecticut, to call for volunteers to examine
it, and First Lieut. E. S. Perry and Private Crabbe, of Company H,
gallantly offered to perform this duty. Advancing under the fire of
both parties they reached the banks, and ascertained that it is one of
the narrow, but deep and muddy, streams common in this region, and
that there was no possibility of fording it.
At about 5 o'clock I learned from the general commanding that, in
consequence of the breaking down of the bridge and the resulting im
possibility of effecting a passage across the stream behind which the
enemy had retreated, he had determined to withdraw his forces, and I
received directions from him to cover the movement, maintaining my
position until dusk and until all the wounded should be carried to the
rear. The general at the same time directed the Fourth New Hamp
shire Kegirnent, then in the road, somewhat in the rear of the front, to
form a line on the left and retire slowly. In pursuance of these orders
I remained in position till quite dark, and until the wounded were
brought in and I received orders to retire.
Prior to the reception of these orders I had relieved the Seventh C
necticut, whose ammunition was nearly exhausted, by the Forty-seventh
Pennsylvania: and the Third New Hampshire, which was still at some
distance to the left and rear, in the position where I had posted it, was
brought back to the road, its right resting upon it; and the boat how
itzer, under command of Midshipman Wallace, was brought to the front,
when it fired the last discharge of artillery of the day. The regiments
were withdrawn one after the other, successively forming lines to t
rear to cover the withdrawal of each other, the cavalry occupying ]
road at charging distance behind the lines thus formed,
at the first causeway 1 found the general commanding with the troops
first withdrawn, and received from him orders to proceed at once ytl
my brigade to Mackay's Point and put the regiments in bivouac as 1
should arrive. On my way to this place,-while still ™"*™
miles from it, I met coming up that portion of the Thud
168 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAI-. XXVL
Artillery, under Major Rogers, which had been on the gunboat Marble-
head and directed him to halt his command and report his arrival to
thegeoeral Commanding. As fast as the regiments came in at the point
they were plaml in bivouac, in brigade lines, at right angles to the road,
and a fresh supply of ammunition was served out. At midnight, in ac
cordance with directions received from the general commanding, Major
Rogers' detachment of the Third Khode Island and the cavalry were
thrown forward as pickets, with instructions to fire rockets as signals
to the gunboats whose guns bore upon the approaches to our position,
in case of the appearance of the enemy.
After my arrival I made details from the regiments of my own bri
gade to aid similar details from the First Brigade, who, under the im
mediate direction of the general commanding, were bringing in the
wounded. As fast as they were brought in they were placed upon the
transports, both officers and men, although very weary, working with
great zeal and cheerfulness to succor their disabled comrades. The re-
embarkation of the troops commenced at about 8 a. m. of the 23d and
was completed at sunset, the Fifty-fifth Pennsylvania Volunteers,
three companies of which had been substituted for the Ehode Island
detachment as pickets in the afternoon, being the last to leave the
point.
In the afternoon several pickets and vedettes of the enemy were seen
by our outposts, but they remained at a respectful distance and made
no effort to annoy them.
During the whole of the 22d nothing could surpass the coolness and
firmness of both officers and men of my command. Where all have
done their duty so manfully it is difficult to single out individuals for
special commendation, but I desire to express my Jhanks to Colonels
Hawley, Jackson, and Strawbridge, to Lieutenant-Colonel Hall, and to
Lieut. E. Gittings, wounded, of the battery. The courage and good
conduct of all these gentlemen deserve the highest approbation of the
commanding general.
The Forty-seventh Regiment Pennsylvania Volunteers was for a short
time under my immediate command, and, although they are not a por
tion of my brigade, I cannot forbear mentioning the steadiness and disci
pline displayed by this admirable regiment during our movements to
the rear.
I desire also to bring to the notice of the commanding general the
gallant manner in which Lieutenant Phoenix, U. S. Navy, and the offi
cers and men under his command,' and the officers and men detailed to
assist them, served the boat howitzers during the day.
My thanks are due also to a civilian,. Mr. S. A. Cooley, the sutler of
the Sixth Connecticut Regiment, who, under no obligations of duty, but
prompted solely by motives of humanity, labored most energetically and
effectively throughout the night, superintending the boats used in carry
ing the wounded on board the transports.
I am under great obligations to Dr. D. J. McKibbin, surgeon of vol
unteers, acting as brigade surgeon to the Second Brigade, for his
unwearied efforts in behalf of the wounded, and to the members of
my personal staff, Capt, Theodore Bacon, Seventh Connecticut Volun
teers, acting assistant adjutant-general, and Lieuts. Adrian Terry,
Seventh Connecticut Volunteers, and Martin S. James, Third Rhode
sland Artillery, aides-de-camp, who conveyed my orders under the
icaviest fire with a zeal, activity, and courage that left nothing to.be
Uesireu. •
CITAP XXVI.] SKIRMISH AT COOSAWHATCHIE, S. C., ETC. . 169
I inclose the reports of the commanders of the regiments of m\ bii
gade.
I have the honor to be, captain, very respectfully, your obtMli.-nt
servant,
ALFKED H. TERRY,
Brigadier- General, Volunteers.
Capt. Louis J. LAMBERT, Asst. Adjt. Gen., Hilton Head, S. C.
No. 13.
Report of Col. Joseph R. Hawley, Seventh Connecticut Infantry.
HEADQUARTERS SEVENTH CONNECTICUT VOLUNTEERS,
Camp Hitchcock, Hilton Head, IS. C., October 25, 18G2.
CAPTAIN: I submit, for the consideration of the brigadier-general
commanding, a report of the part taken by this regiment in the late
expedition and the actions which took place near Pocotaligo on the 22d
instant :
General Terry ordered me to furnish a force of 500 men, including
officers, and, in accordance with verbal instructions, I organized them
into six companies, commanded by Captains Chamberlain (first com
pany), Skinner (second company), Gray^third company), Dennis (fourth
company), Tourtellotte (fifth company), and Burdick (sixth company).
Captain Dennis being unable to walk, the command of his company fell
to Lieut. E. S. Perry. Capt. O. S. Sauford acted as major, Lieutenant-
Colonel Gardiner being ill and Major Rodman absent on recruiting serv
ice. Capt. James A. Burns, acting quartermaster, and Capt. C. C. Mills,
who returned from recruiting service after the force was organized,
both waived all questions of etiquette and went upon my staff, the lat
ter as adjutant, and rendered indispensable and constant aid in the field
and elsewhere. Assist. Surg. Horace P. Porter, acting surgeon,, accom
panied us, Dr. Hiue remaining in charge of the sick in camp. The
other officers were Chaplain H. L. Way land, First Lieuts. John Thomp
son, William E. Phillips, Edward S. Perry, and S. S. Atwelly and Sec
ond Lieutenants Wilson, Wild man, Hutchinson, Van Keuren, Barker,
and Marble.
The entire force that left Hilton Head was : Field and acting staff offi
cers, 6 ; non-commissioned staff, 3; company officers, 1'i; musicians and
others (hospital attendants), 17 ; color bearers, 2; enlisted men bearing
arms, 470. Aggregate, 514. This excludes a corporal and 5 men with
out arms, put in charge of our stores on the Boston.
We embarked on the Boston on the afternoon of the 21st. At 1 1 p.
m., on the passage up Broad River, by General Terry's order, I detailed
Captain Gray, Lieutenant Hutchinson, and 74 men, to whom were added
about 20 men of the Third New Hampshire, under Lieutenant I lead, ti
proceed up the river in boats, manned by the Navy and guided by two
negroes, past Mackay's Point, and then landing on the mam-land 1
off and capture the rebel picket, said to number about GO, on duty at
that point. A barge with a howitzer from the Paul Jones accompanie
them. They safely passed the point apparently without being noti
but the negro in the leading boat with Captain Gray conducted t
or 3 miles beyond the proper landing place, where a causeway n
have been reached and the rebels intercepted. This fact was ^as
tained by inquiring of the other negro in Lieutenant Hutchmso
170 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVL
and the party turned about, but the favorable moment had passed.
Davlight appeared before they got back to the spot and they kept on
it. Slarkay's Point, where they found our troops debarking, the enemy
of course having fled.
Lieutenant Smith, of the Third New Hampshire, who accompanied
Captain (I ray as far as the tug boat Belief towed the party, and then
went up tlie Pocotaligo with 12 men, is reported to have been more suc
cessful, and to have captured several of the enemy.
The Boston reached Mackay's Point about 8 a. in. on the 22d, and the
regiment promptly debarked and formed line. The Seventy-sixth Penn
sylvania, Colonel Strawbridge, of this brigade, being already on shore,
took the lead, following the First Brigade, Colonel Chatfield command
ing. After the delays and halts, arising from causes of which I know
nothing, the two brigades marched on. At about 12.30 o'clock we
1 1 rani artillery firing in advance of the column, and moving on rapidly
at double-quick we passed evidences of the commencing conflict, and by
General Terry's order I detailed half of my fifth company, under Lieuten
ant Greene, as a guard for the field hospital being established. They did
their duty faithfully for fifteen hours, and rendered great aid to the
wounded, constructing temporary litters with saplings and strips of
their own blankets, bringing off the disabled, &c., there being no occasion
t < > resist the enemy. A few minutes afte/, by the general's order, I de
tailed the remainder of the fifth company, under Captain Tourtellotte
and Lieutenant Phillips, to guard and help to draw the three boat how
itzers. They did not fail in their duty for a moment. The remaining
five companies, by the general's order, formed column by company and
continued advancing. Approaching the two strips of thick wood,
divided by a marsh and crossed by the road nearly at right angles,
General Terry ordered us into line on the right of the brigade, and we
halted. Advancing a few paces the brigade again halted (see A on
sketch), and the men lay down, the enemy's artillery and infantry keep
ing up a lively fire, which more particularly endangered the regiments
(Seventy-sixth Pennsylvania and Third New Hampshire) on our left.
Some minutes passed, our artillery working fiercely, and the First Bri
gade, which had been hotly engaged, reforming its lines. A general ad
vance followed, there being one brief halt (B) after jumping the ditch.
*•!*
FthC.v <3>
The thick and almost impassable wood was entered and the marsh
soon reached (C), but the enemy had left the opposite bank. As the
general ordered, we moved by the left flank until we touched the road
then counter-marched to bring my right to cross the causeway, which
CHAP. XXVI.] SKIRMISH AT COOSAWIIATCIIIE, S. C., ETC. 171
after a halt we did at a lively pace, following the Sixtli Regiment of
Connecticut Volunteers A rapid march of 2 or 3 miles followed, roach '
of it at double-quick; but the men endured it remarkably well' Tin
sounds of a renewed fight reached us, and we hurried along the narrow
road through a heavy wood toward the front, where I was ordered to ill.-
to the right into the wood. I obeyed, changing direction a little to t In-
right to go behind the reserve of the Fourth New Hampshire (A s,.,-
ond sketch), halted (B), reported, and was instructed that my duty was
to hold the position and the marsh in front at all hazards. Moviii" by
the left flank a little, and throwing forward my right, so as to brin<? my
line more nearly perpendicular to the road, I dressed the line, halted
e/t
j.7-ly insight-
ttrltffoSt*
r-Sirvt&r*.
(C), and ordered the men to lie down, the artillery of the enemy send
ing occasional missiles in our direction, one of which instantly killed
Private James Cook, of Company I, and wounded one or two others.
I found near me a small reserve of the Fourth New Hampshire, and send
ing forward to the edge of the wood skirting the marsh 1 learned that
more of that regiment were there deployed as skirmishers and main
taining a dropping fire. They returned word that they could hold their
position if well supported. I informed their commanding officer, Colonel
Bell, and rested, having no instructions to transmit to any other regi
ment.
General Terry soon ordered me to send forward our Sharps riflemen
to the edge of the wood to work upon the enemy's battery across the
marsh. I ordered forward Companies A and B, Captains Chamberlain
and Burdick (Captain Sanford, acting major, superintending the move
ment), the men to be deployed at short intervals (E and E). Thm-
were nearly 100 of them, and they opened a fire of astonishing rapidity,
with sights ranging from 400 to COO yards, anil I must believe with
accuracy, for the enemy's field pieces, and even his infantry fire, were
silenced in a very few moments. Again receiving General Terra's in
structions the regiment rose up and moved in good line to join Com
panies A and B at the edge of the wood (F), and commenced tiring
172 COASTS OF S«C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVL
bv file with the greatest satisfaction to the men. The officers cautioned
t finn to elevate the sights properly and to fire deliberately. The Sharps
riflemen were ordered to cease firing, that they might reserve some am
munition. After a time (the enemy being nearly quiet) I caused the
bugle to sound "Cease firing," aud the men promptly obeyed and were
ordered to lie down. The moment any groups of the enemy appeared on
the edge of the not very thick woods opposite or about the buildings
or near the one field piece which we could see (the other had been
drawn out of sight) our fire was opened for a short time and the Sharps
riflemen were permitted to work at intervals. At one time I had 6 men
from each company detailed to maintain such a fire as would keep down
the enemy. Again and again the regiment opened and ceased firing,
obeying the bugle calls as promptly as if simply on drill.
General Terry at one time desired us to charge across the marsh if
it was practicable, and to send some one to examine the ground. I
called for half a dozen volunteers, and thrice the number sprang up
immediately. 1 selected 5, and after exploring they reported that as
for as I ordered them to go (150 or 200 yards) the footing was very fair
and they could see no creek. Satisfied that there was one I called
again for volunteers, and Lieutenant Perry and Private Crabbe, eagerly
offering, were accepted, and ordered to keep low and find the creek.
Our men were notified and cautioned not to hit them. They went,
stooping under the fire of both parties, two-thirds of the way across, and
reported a deep creek, of the character common here, with muddy banks
and low water. I sent the lieutenant to General Terry.
Though we prolonged the expenditure of ammunition as much as pos
sible, I was obliged to report that (if any was to be reserved for future
contingencies) it would soon be necessary to relieve us. We had some
time previously heard a locomotive whistle during a lull, and there
was repeatedly great cheering among the rebels, for which (their fire
having been repeatedly silenced) there was no apparent cause, unless
their re- enforcements had come up through the woods in their rear.
Such must have been the case, for it required more constant work to
keep their fire quiet and their rifles were getting a better range of our
position; but they never showed any disposition to cross to us. The
Forty-seventh Pennsylvania was ordered to take our places after a time,
and as we moved, by the right of companies to the rear they promptly
advanced and opened a hot fire.
By General Terry's order we again formed in line a few hundred
yards back, and when the Forty-seventh Pennsylvania had taken a
position back of us we filed into the road, and -perhaps 1,000 yards
to the rear tiled to the left, and again formed a line perpendicular to
the road, faced by the rear rank, our right resting on the road, while
the Third New Hampshire, Colonel Jackson, occupied a corresponding
position across the way.
After all the wounded and stragglers had passed, by the general's
orders we took the road and proceeded to Mackay's Point, 5 or 6 miles
distant, reaching it in about seven hours from the time we ceased tiring.
Our frequent halts were owing to regiments ahead and to the necessity
of caring for the wounded. Upon reaching the field hospital all our
wounded were attended to, and, weary as our men were, about 20 cheer-
lully volunteered to go .back and assist in bringing along others.
We bivouacked at the Point, aud during the night obtained a fresh
supply of ammunition. In the morning (October 2:3) we embarked on
the Boston, on which were also about 120 dead and wounded of various
regiments, and returned to Hilton Head.
CHAP. XXVI.] SKIRMISH AT COOSAWHATCHIE, S. C., ETC. 173
General Terry has already received a substantially accurate sHte
ment of our losses; but I append the official report of Dr. Porter « \
number of slight contusions and grazes were not entered on the list
For every officer and non-commissioned officer (save possibly one of
the latter) I have none but words of unqualified praise. The (• ,,,t ii.i,
have made written reports by name of all privates who failed to keen
the ranks throughout. The list is very small, and those against whn,!
the suspicion of cowardice or desertion arises are very few indeed ( )f
the regiment as a body it is precisely true that it was regular, stead v
promptly obedient, and fully under control every moment I do not
know what more I could have asked of it or asking could have ob
tained.
I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant
JOS. It. HAWLEY,
Colonel Seventh Connecticut Volunteers.
Capt. THEODORE BACON,
Actg. Asst. Adjt. Gen., Second Brigade, Tenth Army Corps.
No. 14.
Report of Col. John H. Jackson, Third New Hampshire Infantry.
HDQRS. THIRD NEW HAMPSHIRE VOLUNTEERS,
Hilton Head, 8. C., October 26, 1862.
CAPTAIN : I have the honor to present the following report:
Agreeably to Special Orders, No. 5, from Headquarters. Second Bri
gade, dated October 21, 1802, 1 reported with .480 men at the head ot
the wharf at 1 p. in., and received orders to embark 100 men on board
the Patroon and Tineas. The remainder of my command embarked on
board the steamer Boston.
Between 10 and 11 o'clock at night I was ordered to detail 2 officers
and 32 men to cut off some pickets of the enemy. One of the officers,
with 20 men, reported to Captain Gray, of the Seventh "Connecticut Vol
unteers. The remaining officer, with 12 men, with an officer and boat's
crew from the Paul Jones, went in another direction and captured a
picket. The report of Lieutenant Smith, commanding this detachment,
please find inclosed, marked A.t
In the morning about 8 o'clock I disembarked, and soon after received
orders to advance. A short time after our advance had engaged the
enemy I received orders to form in line of battle in the rear of ami a
little to the left of one of our batteries, which position 1 took under a
severe fire of the enemy. Most of their fii e, however, was too high, and
passed over our heads.
I soon received orders to again advance, and after advancing some dis
tance was ordered to position on the left of our forces, with one piece of
marine artillery, to guard against any attempt of the enemy to turn our
left flank.
I remained in this position some time, and received orders to send for
ward the piece of artillery then with me. About dark I received order.
to draw in my advance 'and retire from my position and take a ne\v
position, with my right resting on the main road, and remain ther
pur forces had all passed me.
"^Embodied iu revised statement, p. 148. ttfot found.
1 74 COASTS OF S. C., GA , AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVL
Alter all had passed me and a company of cavalry, with one piece of
artillery, had taken position in the road I had orders to retire. After
retiring and taking a new position near the river I sent out, by order, a
number of details, one of 100 men, to assist in removing the wounded.
During the day 3 of my command were wounded.*
Daring the forenoon of Thursday, the 23d, the men of my command
were embarked, according- to orders received, and arrived at this camp
during that night and Friday morning, when the last were landed.
Dm in- the expedition the officers and the men generally did their
duty faithfully. I returned with three companies of my regiment on
the' Paul Jones; and would take this opportunity to present my thanks
and those of ray officers and men who were with me to the commander
of the Paul Jones, also to his officers and men, for the kind treatment
we all received while on board. All my officers and men who were in
this expedition speak highly of the treatment they received while on
board the gunboats.
Dr. r>ii/zell, of my regiment, was untiring in his efforts to make the
wounded as comfortable as possible. My command is now all in camp,
and ready and willing to move again at short notice.
The property captured by Lieutenant Smith is mentioned in his report.
One of the fowling-pieces was taken by Serg. Nathaniel J. Campbell,
of his company, who expressed a strong desire to have the piece. If
ii can be done, I hope his wish will be gratified.
With respect, your obedient servant,
JOHN H. JACKSON,
Colonel Third New Hampshire Volunteers.
Captain BACON,
Assistant Adjutant- General, Second Brigade.
No. 15.
Report of Col. De Witt C. Strawbridge, Seventy -sixth Pennsylvania In-
- fantry.
HEADQUARTERS SEVENTY-SIXTH KEGT. PA. YOLS.,
Hilton Head, S. 0., October — , 1862.
CAPTAIN : In accordance with Special Orders, No. 5, received from
Headquarters Second Brigade, Tenth Army Corps, I embarked on board
of the steamer Flora and Water Witch (gunboat) on the 21st instant,
with li'O men and the proper number of officers, and proceeded up
Broad River to Mackay's Point, where we disembarked, with about 280
men, on the morning of the 22d, and thence proceeded toward Poco-
taligo ('reek, and about 5 or 0 miles out.
By your order my command was deployed into the wood on the left
of t he road and remained there until ordered forward, when I proceeded
through the wood in line, and, crossing quite a swamp, proceeded for
ward, in column of company, until ordered into the road; then receiv-
i'm orders to push forward at double-quick to support the First Artil
lery, mid occupied the extreme left, where my regiment was properly
formed across the road leading to Pocotaligo, and there opened up a
busk lire, in support of the artillery, and, finding a large number of rebel
cavalry were verging around on my left, I immediately prolonged my
* Nominal list omitted. See p. 148.
CHAP. XXVI. 1 SKIRMISH AT COOSAWHATCHIE, S. C., ETC. 17.")
line and opened up a brisk fire on them, when they fell back. The two
other companies then came up and were properly formed on tin- iHt of
the artillery and commenced firing and continued doing so uniil tlic
ammunition was exhausted, when 1 reported the case, and was ordered
to fall back slowly and proceed back to the landing.
The officers and men performed their parts well, obeying promptly
every order ; our loss being 75 in killed, wounded, and missing. Of t his
number 12 were killed (2 captains), 62 were wounded, and 1 missing.
Upon arriving at the landing I immediately supplied my command
with ammunition and then bivouacked for the night.
At 12 o'clock on the 23d I re embarked on board of the gunboat
Water Witch, and arrived at Hilton Head, S. C., at 6 p. m., and then
disembarked and proceeded to camp. The men were considerably worn-
out, but were feeling well in consequence of the victory.
I have the honor to be, captain, very respectfully, your obedient
servant,
D. C. STKAWBKIDGE,
Colonel, Commanding Seventy-sixth Pennsylvania Volunteers.
Capt. THEODORE BACON,
Actg. Asst. Adjt. Gen., Second Brigade, Tenth Army Corps.
No. 16.
Report of Col. William B. Barton, Forty-eighth New York Infantry.
HDQRS. U. S. FORCES ON THE SAVANNAH EIVER,
Fort PulasU, Ga., October 23, 1862.
CAPTAIN : I have the honor to report my share in the recent opera
tions against the Charleston and Savannah Railroad :
In accordance with orders from General Mitchel, received on the
evening of the 20th instant, I left this post at 8 a. m. on the 21st instant
jvith 300 men of the Forty-eighth New York Volunteers and 50 men of
the Third Ehode Island Artillery (the latter under command of Qapt
John H. Gould), with three days' cooked and seven days' uncooked
rations, on board the armed transport Planter.
On arriving at Hilton Head I received instructions as to my number
in the line of the fleet, and also directions to report to Brigamer-Gen-
eral Brannau, who commanded the expedition, on reaching Mackay s
Point, for further orders.
Soon after daylight on the morning of the 22d 1 reported to General
under cover of the gunboats,
toward the town, and, if possible, reach the Charleston and . baiani .il
Eailroad, and destroy it at that point, and the bridge on it, ovei
Coosawhatchie. I was fully instructed, however, not to hazan
much in order to accomplish the above; but, it opposed by a f<
all superior, to fall back under cover of the fleet.
™*<
,
There was some delay in starting, arising from the S™*<^
well to the rear, which I improved in borrowing from Co i u
Steedman, on board the flag-ship Paul ^^^ff^Mmii
boat howitzer and 52 rounds of ammunition, which t ic
1 76 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVt
service to me, and for which I desire to return my thanks. I was also
furnished, by General Braunan's order, with 50 men from the New
York State Volunteer Engineers, under command of Captain Eaton,
provided with the necessary implements for cutting the railroad, &c.
\\ e were soon under way, and had proceeded some 3 miles up the river
when the gunboats turned around and came back, in compliance, as I
was informed, with an order from the flag-ship. I, however, continued
on my course in the Planter, meanwhile signaling to the flag-officer
for at least one gunboat, in reply to which he kindly sent two, viz, the
Patroou and the Marblehead, which followed after the lapse of a few
minutes. The river at this point was very narrow and winding, but
the water in most places was over 12 feet in depth at low tide. I found
no difficulty, therefore, in reaching a point 2 miles distant from Copsaw-
hatchie; but, it now being almost dead low tide, farther progress by
water was rendered impossible by the Planter running aground. Throw
ing a few shells into the woods, I disembarked with my infantry and
engineers as expeditiously as possible, taking with me the boat howit-
/• r referred to above, in charge ot Captain Gould, Third Khode Island
Artillery, and a detachment of 12 of his men. The swampy nature of
the ground rendered lauding difficult; but, losing no time, 1 advanced
toward the main road, sending a request to the officer in command of
the Patroon (the gunboat nearest to me and about 1£ miles astern), to
cover the road in my rear as I advanced. I should state here that both
gunboats were unfortunately aground, and were thus prevented from
taking a position nearer to the Planter.
My advance reported squads of cavalry in sight as the main body
entered the road, which it did at right angles to the point of disem
barkation. The road proved to be an excellent one, hard and firm,
and evidently repaired but an hour or two before, the dirt being still
iresh, and the tracks upon it showed plainly that artillery, infantry,
and cavalry had just passed over it.
I continued my advance toward the town, driving in the enemy's
pickets and skirmishing the country as thoroughly as possible. When
about 1 mile from the village the whistle of a locomotive was heard. I,
Mas informed by the contraband who had been furnished as a guide
that it was the dirt train, which always passed at that hour, and which,
he said, was well on its way to Savannah. A few moments, however,
proved that he had misinformed me; for when the main body had
arrived at a point within a few hundred yards of the town, and when
the skirmishers had already reached the railroad track and, telegraph
line, the tiain was heard and seen rapidly coming down the road. I
quickly placed my battalion in position, and as the train approached
I directed a heavy and rapid tire upon it with grape and canister and
musketry. This fire was very destructive. The train consisted of
eight cars, six of which were platform, crowded with men, and two
box cars, tilled with officers. There were also two light field pieces on
l oarq, .Many were seen to fall at the first fire (among them the engi
neer) and 25 or 30 jumped from the train. Most of them were maimed
« i killed, and the rest (with one exception) betook themselves to the
woods and > \\amp on the other side of the track. We carried away or
lestroyed here about 30 stand of arms, mostly rifles, and secured 'one
oihcer's sword and cap, and a stand of silk colors, belonging to the
\\ hippy Swamp Guards. We left a number of the enemy's dead and
wounded on the track.
CHAP. XXVI. SKIRMISH AT COOSAWHATCHIE, S. C., ETC. 1?7
T have since learned, from the Savannah papers of the 24tb and
25th, that among the killed at this point was Major Harrison, of the
Eleventh Georgia [South Carolina] Regiment, which regiment, with tl
guards named above, were on the train.
Immediately after the train had passed Captain Eaton, by my direc
tions, set vigorously at work tearing up the railroad track, and con
tinued thus until the retreat was sounded. After this occurrence I con
cluded, if possible, to push rapidly into the town and attack the troops
while ill the confusion of disembarking, and marched forward for that
purpose. I had proceeded but a short distance, however, before I came
in full view of the enemy's forces advantageously posted on the other
side of the public road bridge, between that and the railroad bridge.
They were flanked on their left by the river and on their right by a
thick swamp, with three pieces of artillery commanding the bridge.
They immediately opened fire upon us w'ith their artillery and in
fantry, fortunately, however, for us, tiring too high. I fired a few
rounds' in return, when (as it was now nearly night and the enemy's
re-enforcements alone were double my entire' force) I marched slowly
back to iny boats. During my retreat the skirmishers frequently ob
served and encountered small bodies of the enemy's cavalry, who were,
however, easily driven off.
I directed Captain Eaton, of the Engineers, to destroy the bridges
on the road in my rear, which he did thoroughly, thus, in a measure,
hindering the pursuit. The enemy, however, made his appearance and
attacked us with infantry and artillery several times during our em
barkation, but in each instance we drove them off with serious loss, as
they were directly under the guns of the Planter and Patroou. As
soon as the steamer again floated we returned to Mackay's Point by
order of General Brannan, and thence by way of Hilton Head to this
post.
I regret to report that during the last attack of the enemy Lieut. J.
B. Blanding, of the Third Rhode Island Artillery, at that time in charge
of the Planter, was dangerously wounded in the left arm and side.
He is, however, doing well. This was the only casualty on our side
during the day.
It affords me great pleasure to state that every officer and man of
my command behaved during the entire day in the most commendable
manner, evincing only a desire to meet the enemy and regret at the
necessity of retreat.
Major Green, acting lieutenant-colonel of the Forty-eighth New York
Volunteers, and Captain Strickland, acting major Forty-eighth New
York Volunteers, were especially useful. Captain Gould, of the Third
Rhode Island Artillery, also rendered me most efficient service, as did
also Captain Katon, SerrelFs Volunteer Engineers, all of whom dis
played the utmost zeal, energy, and ability in all they were called upon
to perform.
I have the honor to be, captain, very respectfully, your obedient
t' WM. B. BARTON,
Colonel Forty-eighth New York Vols., Commanding Post.
Capt. Louis J. LAMBERT,
Assistant Adjutant- General.
12 Ti B — VOL XIV
178 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVI.
No. 17.
Report of Capt. Samuel 0. Eaton, First New York Engineers.
HEADQUARTERS CAMP VOLUNTEER ENGINEERS,
Hilton Head, S. C., October 25, 1862.
In compliance with orders from Col. E. W. Serrell, chief engineer, I
have the honor to report that, by your orders, I reported to Colonel
Barton, of the Forty-eighth New York Volunteers, on board the Planter,
at Mackay's Point, on the morning of the 22d instant, with 32 men of
my company (F) and 13 men of Company G, Lieutenant McKerma, of
Company G, and Acting Lieutenant Browning, of my company, taking
our arms, tools, and faggots, for destroying railroads and bridges.
My detachment was taken in tow by the Planter, and steamed slowly
up the Coosawhatchie River, accompanied by three gunboats, until
within about 2 miles of the town, where two negroes were taken on
board, near a large plantation house, on the left bank of the stream.
Within about 500 yards of this house the Planter ran aground near
the middle of the stream, at this point about 75 yards wide. The last
gunboat had stopped, and lay about one-half to three-quarters of a
mile below. The tide was running out, and our boat being fast aground,
we were ordered to land at about 2 p. m. The infantry were first landed
and skirmishers thrown out, a boat howitzer, with a detachment of the
Third Ehode Island Artillery, under Captain Gould, and the Engineers
following. The landing was inade on a miry bank, about 4 feet above
the water at that time, and covered with tall sedge-grass, about 100
yards of which lay between us and the solid ground.
The Engineers were ordered to the front to open a passage to the
main road, which was about 500 yards in a direct line from the point
of our landing, and we followed it in a northerly direction nearly par
allel to the general course of the stream. The road had been newly re
paired that morning ; low bushes and trees lined it on either side, with
occasional open fields beyond. After marching about 1^ miles a loco
motive whistle was heard immediately on our left and front, and we
were halted and brought to the front in line of battle just in time to
see the engine unmasked from the trees and bushes that covered its
approach from the south. The Engineers were on the right, arid, at
the command, delivered their fire with the other forces as the train
passed loaded with troops.
I was immediately ordered forward with my first platoon to destroy
the railroad and telegraph at that point. The remaining portion of the
^ngmeer detachment moved on up the road, under Lieutenant Mc-
na with the main body, a small party of skirmishers remaining at
the railroad with me. As we reached the track a rebel jumped up
the opposite ditch and gave himself up. We had succeeded in
ing out two rails entirely from the track and five or six others
tially, kindled a fire for burning the ties arid warping the rails, cut
own two of the large telegraph poles and cut the wire in several
places, when cavalry was reported in our rear, infantry and artillery
in our front, and we were ordered to fall back, taking our tools and
arms, besides two muskets and one rifle belonging to the enemv. We
back onto the road and as the column filed past, marching in re-
1 in with the balance of the Engineer detachment, and were
ordered to destroy the bridges in the rear of the retreating forces.
CMAI-. XXVI.] SKIRMISH AT COOSAWHATCHIE, S. C., ETC. 179
Four bridges were destroyed by throwing off the plank and cutting
the spans, only two of which were of sufficient width to detain cavalry
and artillery. The largest was about 12 or 15 feet in width4 with banks
of about 4 feet in height. No further engineering duties were per
formed except to assist in repelling an attack made by the enemy as
we were re-embarking.
We were all safely back at the Planter about 5.30 p. m.. and as the
tide soon floated her, got under way for Mackay's Point, where I re
ported on board the steamer George Washington ; but finding that
steamer about leaving on picket duty reported back to the Planter,
and remained on board until morning, when I reported to yourself and
Colonel Serrell on shore, receiving orders from him to report back with
my detachment on board the George Washington if she should arrive
before the Planter left ; if not, to remain with the latter and be towed
back to this post. In compliance with this order I arrived here at or
about 3 p. m. of the 23d instant.
I have the honor to be, very respectfully, vour obedient servant,
S. C. EATON,
Captain, Commanding Detachment of Volunteer Engineers.
Lieut. Col. JAMES F. HALL,
Commanding Volunteer Engineers.
No. 18.
Report of General G. T. Beauregard, C. S. Army, commanding Department
of South Carolina, Georgia, and Florida.
SAVANNAH, GA., October 23, 1862—8 a. m.
The Abolitionists attacked in force Pocotaligo andCoosawhatchie yes
terday. Thev were gallantly repulsed to their gunboats at Mackay s
Point and Bee's Creek Landing by Col. W. S. Walker, commanding
district, arid Col. G. P. Harrison, commanding troops sent from h
Enemy had come in thirteen transports and gunboats.
Eailroad uninjured. Abolitionists left dead and wounded on tl
Our cavalry in hot pursuit. ^ ^ BBAUMSGARD?
General, Commanding.
[General] S. COOPER,
Adjutant and Inspector General, Richmond, \
180 COASTS OF S C., GA , AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVI.
No. 19.
Casualties in the Confederate forces October 22-23, 1862.
[Compiled from the reports.]
Command.
M
Wounded.
Missing.
I
Remarks.
2
2
1
10
13
3
21
10
21
14
18
8
3
25
6
6
2
Eleven captured on picket.
One report has 8 wounded.
Strength, 42.
One report has 14 wounded.
One report has 15 wounded.
(Whether the numbers reported in
the regiment are intended to cover
casualties of Companies B and D
does not appear from the sheets
on file.) Strength Company B, 55.
1st Battalion South Carolina Cavalry:
1
9
1
15
7
17
13
14
8
12
i
4
1
4
1
4
2
2
Company B. Is' Battalion South Caro
lina Sharpshooters (Captain Alls-
ton's).
Nelson's Battalion (Captain Sligh)...
Beaufort Light Artillery
Nelson Light Artillery (Virginia,
Captain [J. N.] Lamkin).
Partisan Hangers (Kirk's)
1
3
2
22
5
4
2
1
1
7th South Carolina Battalion (In
fantry).
Company B (Marion Men of Comba-
hee, Captain Heyward).
Company D (Captain Howard)
1
Total
21 1 124
18
163
No. 20.
Report of Brig. Gen. W. 8. Walker, C. S. Army, commanding Third Mili
tary District of South Carolina.
HDQRS. THIRD MILITARY DIST. OF SOUTH CAROLINA,
Pocotaligo, S. C., November 4, 1862.
SIR : I have the honor to report that about 9 o'clock on the morning of
October 22 I was informed by my pickets that the enemy were lauding
in force at Mackay's Point from twelve gunboats and transports. I was
notified at the same time that they were ascending the Coosawhatchie
River with four transports. The command was immediately ordered
under arms to march to Old Pocotaligo. I moved in advance to the tele
graph office and made the following disposition of my forces: The La
fayette Artillery (four pieces), under Lieutenant [L. F.] Le Bleux, and
a section of the Beaufort Volunteer Artillery, under Lieut. 11. M.
Stuart, were ordered to Coosawhatchie, a town 10 miles distant from my
headquarters in McPhersonville and 5 from Old Pocotaligo. Captain
[B. F.] Wyman's company [Company F, Eleventh South Carolina Vol
unteers], stationed near Coosawhatchie, and five other companies of the
Eleventh Regiment Infantry, from Hardeeville, were ordered to support
this artillery. Colonel Colcock's command of five companies of cavalry
and two companies of sharpshooters had been recently notified to ex
pect an attack at Coosawhatchie, and in that event were instructed to
move to its support. Major [K. J.] Jeffords' [of Seventeenth South
Carolina Cavalry Battalion] command of three companies of cavalry
was ordered from Green Pond to the Salkehatchie Bridge. With the
CHAP. XXVI.] SKIRMISH AT COOSAWHATCHIE, S. C., ETC. 181
blessing of a good Providence these combinations of my forces scat
tered over an extent of 60 miles, were effected in time to foil the enemy
I also telegraphed to General Beauregard's headquarters, tn Brigadier'
General Hagood, commanding Second Military District, and to Bri«ra-
dier-General Mercer, at Savannah, for re-enforcements, requesting those
from Charleston to disembark at Pocotaligo and those from Savannah
at Coosawhatchie. Capt. W. L. Trenholm, who was in command of the
outposts, consisting of two companies (his Rutledge Mounted Riflemen
and Captain [M. J.] Kirk's Partisan Rangers), was ordered to with
draw the main body of the pickets, only leaving a few important posts
guarded. The force with which I first engaged the enemy consisted of
two sections of the Beaufort Volunteer Artillery and the' Nelson Li^lit
Artillery, eight pieces, under the command of Capt. Stephen Elliott; the
Charleston Light Dragoons, Capt, B. II. Rutledge First [Fourteenth
on register] Battalion (cavalry), Major [J. B.] Morgan; Capt, D. B.
Heyward's company of cavalry; Captain Kirk's Partisan Rangers; Cap
tain [J. B.] Allstou's company of sharpshooters, and Captain [A. C.l
Izard's company (I), of the Eleventh Regiment Infantry, Lieut. W. L.
Campbell commanding; number, in all, 475. As one-fourth of the cav
alry were horse-holders, the force actually engaged was reduced to 405
men. The force of the enemy was represented by prisoners and con
firmed by the statement of negroes who had crossed Port Royal Ferry
to the main-land on that day and been captured, to be seven regiments,
one of which, I judge, went to Coosawhatchie.
I sent in advance a section of the Beaufort Volunteer Artillery, sup
ported by Captain Allston's sharpshooters and two companies of cavalry
under Major Morgan, to skirmish with the enemy, while I took position
on the Mackay's Point road, near Dr. Ilutsou's residence, at a salt marsh
skirted by woods on both sides and crossed by a causeway. After a short
encounter with the enemy (in which Major Morgan, while at the head
of his command, was severely wounded in the ankle) my advance force
retired in good order to the main position. The Beaufort Artillery was
posted in and near the road commanding the causeway, and the Nelson
Artillery in an open field in the rear of the line of skirmishers, and
screened from the enemy by the trees in front. A dropping fire of
infantry first commenced, which was soon swelled by their artillery.
Owing to the close proximity of the trees fringing the other side of the
swamp I found that my artillery was suffering severely in men and
horses, and accordingly, after holding my ground for three-quarters of
an hour, I determined to withdraw to a second position D£ miles in rear.
This wTas done in good order, Captain Allstor's sharpshooters and part of
Company I, Eleventh Infantry, covering our retreat and behaving for
the most part with great spirit. At the head of the road I was joined by
Captain Trenholm with the larger portion of his company and Captain
Kirk's. I assigned the command of the cavalry to him, and ordered my
whole force to move back across Pocotaligo bridge and take up a position
among the houses audscattered trees of the hamlet. The artillery was
placed in position to command the bridge and causeway, the Charleston
Light Dragoons being held in reserve. The bridge was ordered to be
torn up, and this was scarcely done when the enemy appeared in sight
and commenced a continuous 'and rapid fire of musketry and rified guns.
the remaining two kept up a fire to the close of the fight. The enemy's
182 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVI.
artillery was entirely silenced and withdrawn early in the action. One
pure ot'the Beaufort Artillery was most judiciously withdrawn during
the battle and posted 300 yards on rny right, under Sergeant-Major
Fuller It was retired by a cross-road, unseen by the enemy, and had
all the effect of a re-enforcement from its new and unexpected position.
It lired spherical case and the practice was excellent. At the crisis of
the light 1 ordered up the Charleston Light Dragoons. That gallant
corps^came forward with an inspiriting shout and took position on my
left, which wanted strengthening.
1 had been notified by telegraph that re-enforcements were on the
way from Charleston and Savannah and Adams Kun. The Nelson
[Seventh South Carolina] Battalion, of 200 men, Captain [W. H.] Sligh
[Company C] commanding, was the only re-enforcement that arrived
in time for the fight, about an hour and a half before its close. As soon
as this corps made its appearance near the field 1 ordered one half to a
position commanding a causeway some 600 yards on my right to pro
tect my flank and the remainder was deployed to the front to relieve
my exhausted men. The arrival of this battalion gave me assurance
of victory. I felt perfectly certain of success. The two companies sent
to my right under Captain [J. H.] Brooks [Company H, Seventh South
Carolina Battalion] were well handled; one was deployed as skirmish
ers and was subjected to a scattering fire. Their appearance threatened
the enemy's flank and no doubt hastened his retreat. The enemy con
tinued their fire until 6 p. m., when it slackened and ceased.
I then sent a squad of 6 men of the Eutledge Mounted Eiflemen over
the bridge to ascertain the position of the enemy. The bridge was in
so damaged a condition that it was some time before the infantry could
cross. The cavalry were obliged to make a circuit of 5 miles to reach
the head of the road by which the enemy had retreated. This enabled
them to retire unmolested. As soon as the cavalry arrived I sent two
companies — Second Lieut. L. J.Walker, coinmaudingRutledge Mounted
Riflemen, and Captain Kirk's Partisan Rangers — to follow up the re
treat. I was reluctant to send a larger force, as I did not know the
result of the contest at Coosawhatchie, and, from the telegraph wire
being cut, was fearful it was disastrous to our arms. A locomotive was
dispatched from Pocotaligo Station by my aide, Mr. R. M. Fuller, and
2 couriers by myself, to that point to reconnoiter, while I held my force
at the junction of the Mackay's Point and Coosawhatchie roads, ready
to operate either way. The cavalry companies had proceeded but 5£
miles in pursuit when they were stopped by a bridge completely torn
up and destroyed by the enemy in their flight. This could not be re
paired until morning. There were abundant evidences that the retreat
of the enemy was precipitate and disordered; 100 small-arms were
picked up and a considerable amount of stores and ammunition. The
road was strewn with the debris of the beaten foe. Forty -six of the
enemy's dead were found on the battle-field and road-side. ' Seven fresh
- graves were discovered at Mackay's Point. I estimate their total killed
and wounded at 300.
The fight, from the first fire of our advance to the final retreat of the
enemy, lasted from 11.30 a. m. to 0 p. m. We had ample reason to
believe that our small force not only fought against great odds, but
against fresh troops brought up to replace those first engaged. The
entire Command had been earnestly warned in orders not to waste their
I his caution was urged upon them during the action by the com
manding officer, his aides, and the company officers. I aui satisfied
irom my own observation they fired with care and judgment, and yet
CHAP. XXVI.] SKIRMISH AT COOSAWHATCHIE, S. C., ETC. 183
some of our men expended 80 rounds of cartridges in the battle. The
close vicinity of the ordnance train, under its energetic chief Cant W
W. Elliott, enabled me to keep up the supply.
I beg to express my admiration of the remarkable courage and tenacity
with which the troops held their ground. The announcement of mv
determination to maintain my position until re-enforcements arrived
seemed to fix them to the spot with unconquerable resolution. The rapid
and continuous volleys of the enemy's musketry were only intermitted
while fresh troops were being brought up and while those engaged were
retired.
The Beaufort Volunteer Artillery fought with great courage and their
pieces were admirably served. Capt. Stephen Elliott, whose name is
identified with the history of the defense of this coast by many a daring
exploit, behaved with his accustomed coolness, skill, and determination!
Captain Trenholm, in command of the cavalry, again exhibited high
qualities as a soldier on the same ground where he had won his first
laurels.
Captain Edwards, Company B, First Battalion (cavalry), showed good
conduct in the command of his company.
Lieutenant Walker, commanding the Kutledge Mounted Eiflemen,
displayed judgment and daring. His company were as steady as vet
erans, using their rifles with great precision and effect. When the
battle was hottest I ordered Lieutenant Walker to take a squad of his
men and assist the Beaufort Artillery to remove one of their pieces
farther to the rear. This was most gallantly done under a very severe
fire.
Lieutenant Massie, of the Kelson Light Artillery, was active and
energetic in the service of his guns.
Captain Eutledge, of the Charleston Light Dragoons, was cool and
collected in both fights. His gallant corps was held in reserve, and
when they took up their position came with a most inspiriting cheer,
which the men engaged returned, thus giving the impression to the
enemy of decided re-enforcements.
The Government is greatly indebted to Captain Sligh and his brave
battalion for their timely aid. Captain Sligh behaved with marked
coolness and courage.
Captain and Lieutenant - — ,* who came immediately under
my notice, showed zeal and bravery.
I have again to commend the conduct of Lieut. E. M. Skinner, acting
adjutant of the First Battalion (cavalry). He was among the foremost
on the field until disabled by a severe wound in the arm.
Inclosed is Colonel Colcock's report of the engagement of Coosaw-
hatchie. It will be seen that his command behaved with spirit and
success. The most important point to defend was the railroad bridge
over the Coosawhatchie Eiver. From this the enemy were very quickly
driven by our artillery fire, but they succeeded in penetrating to a point
on the railroad west of the bridge before the cavalry arrived, one or two
rails only being torn up and the telegraph wire cut. The damage was
repaired in a very few minutes.
After the enemy had retired to their gunboats the cavalry, under
Lieutenant-Colonel [T. H.] Johnson, fired with effect upon their crowded
decks.
To the following gentlemen, acting as my personal staff, I desire t
~~* The names of these officers, though repeatedly requested, have not yet been
learned. The commanding officer of the battalion has received instructions 1
xvard them to department headquarters. — W. S. W.
184 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVI.
express my thanks for their zeal, gallantry, and intelligent discharge
of duty: Captain [H. J.] Hartstene, C. S. Navy, naval aide; Oapt. W.
'. Elliott, ordnance officer; Capts. George P. Elliott and John [H.J
jreven, Corpl. D. Walker, and Privates Fripp and Martin, of the Rut-
ige Mounted Riflemen, and E. B. Bell, of the Seventeenth Battalion
W.
Soreven.
ledge
(cavalry) South Carolina Volunteers.
Privates F. F. Davant and Ion. Simons, of the Charleston Light
Dragoons, had their horses shot and afterwards fought with their com
pany on foot.
My aide, Mr. R. M. Fuller, rendered valuable service by the intelli
gent discharge of his duty at the telegraph office. The Messrs. Cuth-
bert — father and son — gave me useful assistance.
Privates Fripp and Bell were seriously and Private Martin slightly
wounded. Captain Hartstene's horse was wounded and Corporal
Walker's killed. The judgment, coolness, and gallantry displayed by
Captain Hartstene were as conspicuous en laud as he has hitherto
shown on sea.
I must express my indebtedness to Mr. Buckhalter, of the Charles
ton and Savannah Railroad, for valuable services and for the resolu
tion and courage with which he urged a train filled with troops, after
the engineer had been killed, through an ambuscade of the enemy to
Coosawhatchie.
When the engagement was over ample re-enforcements arrived from
Savannah and Charleston. The enemy's gunboats remained in a com
manding position off Mackay's Point on the 23d, covering their embar
kation. My force could not be moved nearer than 2 miles without being
exposed to a destructive fire. A detachment of cavalry, under Captain
Trenholm, closely watched their operations, occasionally saluted by
their shells.
On the night of the 23d Sergeant Robinson, of the Rutledge Mounted
Riflemen, made a reconnaissance up to the extreme point, and discovered
that the enemy had abandoned the main-land. Early on the morning
of the 24th their gunboats had disappeared.
I inclose a list* cf the casualties and a sketch t of the positions at
which the different conflicts took place.
I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
W. S. WALKER,
Brigadier- General, Commanding.
Brig. Gen. THOMAS JORDAN,
Chief of Staff and Assistant Adjutant- General.
No. 21.
Report of Capt. W. W. Elliott, C. S. Army, Ordnance Officer Third Mili
tary District of South Carolina.
ORDNANCE OFFICE,
Pocotaligo, S. C., November 17, 1862.
GENERAL: I respectfully beg leave to submit a report of ammunition
captured from the enemy on October 22 at the battle of Yemassee and
Pocotaligo:
* Not found, but see Report No. 19, p. 180. t Not found.
CHAP. XXVI.] SKIRMISH AT COOSAWHATCHIE, S. C., ETC. 185
Nineteen rifle (3-inch) shells, loose; 5 boat-howitzer cases, of which
No. 1 contains 14 rifle (3-inch) shells for 6-poundersj No. 2 contains 14
rounds nxed shot for 6- pounders; No. 3 contains 2 canisters (12-pound)
9 cartridges [and] 1 12-pound shot; No. 4 contains 3 canisters 12-pound)
2 6-pound shell and 1 6-pound sho' ; No. 5 contains 4 canisters (12-pound)
2 12-pound spherical-case, [and] 1 6-pound shell. Also 46 rifles and
muskets of different make and caliber, some of which have been issued
in the place of those injured in the fight by our own men.
I certify the above to be a correct statement.
Yery respectfully,
W. W. ELLIOTT,
Ordnance Officer of Third Military District.
Brig. Gen. W. S. WALKER.
No. 22.
Reports of Col. C. J. Colcock, G. S. Army, Third South Carolina Cavalry.
GRAHAMVILLE, 8. C., November 4, 1862.
SIR : A little after 9 o'clock on the morning of October 22 it was re
ported to me unofficially that about daylight that morning the Aboli
tion fleet, consisting of fourteen steamers, with numerous barges at
tached, had proceeded up Broad River. Prostrated by a protracted
spell of fever, from which I had just begun to convalesce, 1 was too
weak to take the field, but resumed the command of my post. I ordered
Lieutenant-Colonel Johnson to take command of the small force at my
disposal, which consisted, as you are aware, of five companies of cav
alry and two companies of sharpshooters, of Major [Joseph] Abney's
battalion [First Battalion South Carolina Sharpshooters], who was in
command, and to proceed with the least possible delay toward Coosaw-
hatchie, to which point I was informed that ^ portion of the enemy's
fleet was advancing.
On arriving at Bee's Creek Hill, 4 miles from Coosawhatchie, Colonel
Johnson was informed that a portion of the Abolition forces was land
ing at Seabrook Island, in his rear, a point which indicated an attack
upon this place. To meet this he had to divide his command and leave
three companies in the vicinity of Bee's Creek Hill. This information
was subsequently ascertained t > be incorrect, but too late to make use
of these forces in the defense of Coosawhatchie. Proceeding with three
companies of cavalry toward that point, upon arriving within 2 miles
of it he ascertained that the enemy had already landed from a gunboat
and barges lying a little below the ocean landing, and was advancing
his column toward the direction of Bee's Creek Hill. He immediately
dismounted his men and formed them as skirmishers to meet the ex
pected attack. This movement, however, was only a feint, as they
soon about-faced and advanced toward Coosawhatchie. The ground
being unfavorable for a charge— the effect of which would have neces
sarily been attended with severe loss to the cavalry, with a prospect ot
little injury to the enemy— Colonel Johnson very judiciously made a
detour to the left, hoping to cut them off before they reached <
'About this time the train, with a portion of Colonel [!>• H-1 ™[f
[Eleventh South Carolina] regiment and Captain [Robert]
186 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVI.
company, of Major Abney's battalion, which had been taken up within
a short distance of Coosawhatchie as they were marching along the
railroad track toward that point, passed by. The enemy hearing their
approach for some distance (the two roads here running parallel and
very close to each other) availed themselves of the opportunity to am
buscade and fire into the train.
The particulars of this disastrous affair I will not refer to, as I sup
pose a full report of all the circumstances will be made by the officer
in command of that detachment, who succeeded the late unfortunate
Major [J. J.] Harrison.
It seems that on arriving near Coosawhatchie the enemy divided into
two detachments, one of which ambuscaded the train, as above referred
to, and the other advanced to the river, for the purpose of destroying
the railroad and turnpike bridges. With timely forethought you had
fortunately dispatched at an early hour that morning for their protec
tion the Lafayette Artillery, Lieutenant Le Bleux commanding, and a
section of Captain Elliott's battery, Lieutenant Stuart commanding.
These, supported by Captain Wyman's company of infantry, most gal
lantly repulsed the enemy in their attack on the bridges and drove
them in confusion toward their other detachment, which, beyond the
range of our artillery, had succeeded in cutting the telegraph wire and
displacing a couple of rails on the track.
About this time the cavalry, which had to make a considerable de
tour over very unfavorable ground, made its appearance, and the enemy
beat a hasty retreat, the cavalry pursuing. Unfortunately the enemy
had taken the precaution in advancing of destroying all the bridges,
which so retarded the prepress of the cavalry as to prevent their cut
ting off their retreat to their gunboat and barges. Disappointed in this
object, Colonel Johnson dismounted his men, and deploying them as
skirmishers, advanced to within about 130 yards of the gunboat, where,
under the protection of a few trees, they poured three volleys from their
rifles into the crowded docks and barges of the enemy, which must have
done considerable execution. The companies composing this detach
ment consisted of Capt. J. H. Howard's [company, D], A. B. Estes
[company, EJ, (under the immediate command of Lieutenant FW. B 1
Peeples), and Capt. George C. Hey ward's [company, Gl. Recovering
their surprise, the enemy opened a terrific fire of grape, shell, and
usketry, in which they were assisted by two of their gunboats stationed
halt a mile lower down the river, under whose enfilading fire our small
force had to fall back.
In this affair I regret to inform you we lost Private Thomas B. Fripp,
Of Captain Hey ward's company, who fell mortally wounded, shot in
three places; as gallant a soldier and true-hearted gentleman as ever
i martyr in defending the cause of liberty. First Lieut, T. G. Buck-
Sifiw Howard's company, was also severely, but I hope not
lOrtally, wounded in the abdomen, and Corpl. Thomas Farr, of the
?nv ?!? «aSyi' re.ceived a, flesh wound i" the thigh, from which I am
!rr£ tlr T 1 8 rapidly recovering. That the casualties were not
in rfr ? ? ^tribute to the interposition of a merciful Provi-
cs those fighting in a righteous cause. For the cas-
report ™^m^ "*™ tO ^ »*«*'«
their heistTrp? P°fS retiff \mmediately after the skirmish, leaving in
eat one of their snlP.mlirl ha™es, capable of transporting
Not found.
CHAP. XXVI.] SKIRMISH AT COOSAWHATCHIE, S. C., ETC. 187
70 or 80 men. The next morning not a sign of the Abolition fleet ww
to be seen in the upper waters of Broad River
I have the honor to remain, very respectfully, your obedient servant
C. J. COLCOCK,
Colonel, Commanding.
Lieut. E. H. BARNWELL,
Acting Assistant Adjutant- General
GRAHAMVILLE, S. C., November 11, 1862
SIR : Two hours after this train passed Grahamville another train
arrived from Savannah with the Thirty-second and Georgia Res
ments, under the command of the gallant Colonel [George P.I Harrison
[jr.]. Unfortunately they arrived at Coosawhatchie after the enemy bad
retired, and thus were denied the pleasure, which they seemed ear
nestly to desire, of having a brush with the Abolitionists.
In making my official report of the incidents of October 92 last I
omitted to mention the arrival of the re-enforcements from Georgia, If
not too late to be embraced in General Walker's official report I will
thank you to insert the above paragraph immediately after that com
mencing, "The particulars of this disastrous affair I will not refer
to," &c.
Yours, very respectfully,
C. J. COLCOCK,
Colonel, Commanding Post.
Lieut. E. H. BARNWELL,
Acting Assistant Adjutant- General.
No. 23.
Report of Col. Claudius C. Wilson, C. S. Army, Tic enty- fifth Georgia
Infantry.
HEADQUARTERS FORCES NEAR CARSTON'S BLUFF,
October 24f 1862.
CAPTAIN: In accordance with orders from General Mercer the Twenty-
fifth and Thirtieth Regiments were at the depot of the Charleston Rail
road at 12 o'clock Wednesday night. We were detained at the depot
a little time, perhaps two hours, waiting for the train to be prepared.
The superintendent of transportation of the road stated that he had
expected the train which had carried Colonel Harrison's command to
carry us. This train having been detained caused the delay.
On arriving at Grahamville I received a note from Colonel Colcock,
commanding at that point, stating that Colonel Harrison and his com
mand were safe at Coosawhatchie and that the enemy's boats were retir
ing toward Broad River, and advising me to proceed to Coosawhatchie,
and my trains to be prepared to move to any point where the attack
might be renewed. We proceeded to Coosawhatchie accordingly, arriv
ing about 8 o'clock a. m. on Thursday. The forces at that point were
Twenty-fifth, Thirtieth, Thirty-second, and Forty-seventh Regiments;
six companies of South Carolina Infantry ; La Fayette Artillery, limr
guns; Terrell Artillery, four guns, and a section of the Beaufort Artillery.
From the best information I could obtain but a small force of the Abol
itionists approached Coosawhatchie, not more probably than a few
188 COASTS OF S. C., UA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVL
along. . ,
eiith South Carolina Begiment, the fireman on the tram, and wounding
the engineer. This train passed on rapidly, and the Abolitionists pro
ceeded to cut down two telegraph posts and to take up four rails of the
road. Before they had time to do any further injury, however, they
took fright either at the noise of Colonel Harrison's train approaching
or of a tew horsemen on the road in their rear, and left for their boats,
tearing up all the bridges behind them on the road leading from Bee's
Creek. A negro on the train of the Eleventh South Carolina Eegiment
jumped off at the time it was fired into, and going back on the railroad
met Colonel Harrison's train and iulorined Colonel Harrison of the at
tack. Being advised of the state of affairs. Colonel Harrison advanced
cautiously to the point where the rails were taken, repaired the road, and
reached Coosawhatchie about 9 p. m.
On arriving at Coosawhatchie, being the senior officer present, I as
sumed command of the forces assembled there, and proceded at once
to recouuoiter the position, to strengthen pickets already thrown out,
and to cover all the approaches with small outposts. Orders were then
issued prescribing the order of formation in case of attack, the point for
assembling, appointing afield officer of the day, and making such disposi
tions as seemed necessary feo prevent confusion in case of an alarm. No
further demonstrations were made, however, by the Abolitionists, and
on yesterday morning all the gunboats had retired from Coosawhatchie
River. On receiving orders yesterday to return I turned the command
over to Lieutenant-Colonel Gautt, Eleventh South Carolina Infantry,
and have now the honor to report that the entire Georgia forces re
turned yesterday without casualty, and are now in their several camps.
I am, captain, your obedient servant,
C. C. WILSON,
Colonel, Comdg. Re-enforcements from Georgia at Coosawhatchie.
Capt. GEORGE A. MERCER,
Assistant Adjutant- General.
No. 24.
Report of Lieut. E. E. Jefferson, C. S. Army, Nelson Light Artillery
( Virginia).
CAMP ASHBY, S. C., October 24, 1862.
CAPTAIN : Below please find report of the losses of Captain Lamkin's
battery, Nelson Light Artillery, in the two battles of the 22d instant:*
We have but 17 sound horses left. We lost but one caisson, from the
team running away with the limber early in the action and breaking it,
- \ ankees burning the rear chests and axle. One of our pieces and
limber was struck sixteen times, another fourteen times. Splinter-bar of
011 nearly broken in two by a shell, a ball through the chests,
,m! u8* Sh°W8 4 ,mfn killed and 2 officer9 (Lieutenats Jefferson andlvr.
and 14 men wounded.
CHAP. XXVI.] EXPEDITION ALONG COASTS GA. AND E. FLA. 189
and several wheels injured. We bad other men slightly injured but a
they are on duty I did not think it necessary to report them
Very respectfully, yours,
E. E. JEFFERSON,
±trst Lieutenant, Comag. Nelson Light Arty., Va. Vols.
Capt. A. GL TALLEY, Acting Adjutant.
OCTOBER 24, 1862.— Affair on Saint Helena Island, S. C.
Report of Brig. Gen. Rufus Saxton, U. S. Army.
BEAUFORT, S. C., October 26, 1862.
GENERAL : I have the honor to report that on Friday last two boat
loads of rebels attempted to land on Saint Helena Island, and were
fired on and driven off by the negro pickets. The people there are
somewhat alarmed. I respectfully request that a picket guard of a
non-commissioned officer and 12 men be sent there to give confidence to
the people.
I am, general, with great respect, your obedient servant,
E. SAXTON,
Brigadier- General, Volunteers.
Major-General MITCHEL.
NOVEMBER 3-10, 1862.— Expedition along the coasts of Georgia and East
Florida.
REPORTS.
No. 1.— Brig. Gen. Rufus Saxton, U. S. Army.
No. 2.— Lieut. Col. Oliver T. Beard, Forty-eighth New York Infantry, commanding
expedition.
NO. 1.
Report of Brig. Gen. Rufus Saxton, U. S. Army.
BEAUFORT, S. C., November 12, 1862.
SIR : I have the honor to inclose, for your iuformatiou, the report of
an expedition which I sent on the steamer Darlington up the rivers and
lagoons on the coasts of Georgia and Florida between Saint Simon's
Island and Fernandina :
The expedition was composed of Col. Oliver T. Beard, Forty-eighth
oSTew York Volunteers; Rev. Mansfield French, chaplain, U. S. Army,
and Captain Trowbridge, with his company (A), of the First South Car
olina Volunteers (colored). I had two objects in view in sending this
expedition. The first was to prove the fighting qualities of the negroes
(which some have doubted), and the other was to bring away the people
from the main-land, destroy all rebel salt-works, and to break up the
rebel picket stations along the line of the coast.
T am happy to report that in every point of view the expedition
190 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVL
was a perfect success. Karely in the progress of this war has so much
mischief been done by so small a force in so short a space of time.
Thirteen different landings were made. The pickets in every case
were driven in, the salt-works destroyed, and all the work finished up
before the enemy could collect a sufficient force to overpower our men.
It is admitted upon all hands that the negroes fought, with a cool
ness and bravery that would have done credit to veteran soldiers.
There was no excitement, no flinching, no attempt at cruelty when
successful. They seemed like men who were fighting to vindicate their
manhood and they did it well.
I trust that you will appreciate the importance of this little effort of
the First South Carolina Volunteers. It seems to me one of the im
portant events of the war — one that will carry terror to the hearts of
the rebels. It discloses an objective point where the hardest blow can
be dealt against this rebellion. This whole coast is intersected by bays,
lagoons, and rivers, which are navigable by light draught steamers, in
some instances, for more than 100 miles up into the heart of the richest
part of the Southern country. I would propose to have a number of
light-draught steamers ; have them well armed and barricaded against
rifle shots, and place upon each one a company of 100 black soldiers.
These are better than white soldiers for this service, on account of the
greater facility with which they can effect landings through the marshes
and thick woods which line the banks of the streams. Each boat should
be supplied with an abundance of spare muskets and ammunition, to
put in the hands of the recruits as they come in. These boats should
then go up the streams, land at the different plantations, drive in the
pickets, and capture them, if possible. The blowing of the steamer's
whistle the negroes all understand as a signal to come in, and no sooner
do they hear it than they come in from every direction. In case the
enemy arrives in force at any landing we have either to keep him at a
proper distance with shells or quietly move to some other point and
repeat the same operation long before he can arrive with his forces by
land. In this way we could very soon have complete occupation of
the whole country. Indeed I can see no limit to which our successes
might not be pushed up to the entire occupation of States or their
occupation by a large portion of the rebel army. I consider that your
instructions to me cover this whole ground ; but in my present posi
tion I am utterly powerless to do anything. It was with extreme diffi
culty that I obtained the services of the Darlington from the military
department for this one expedition, and I know not when I can again
procure her services. I can procure no supplies of ordnance or medical
stores without an order from the commanding general, and if he thinks
differently, or does not choose to give them to me, I am helpless. I
make no complaint of this ; it is proper that the commanding general
should control the supplies ; but all this routine, nevertheless, ties my
hands and renders, it utterly useless for me to attempt to carry out
this great plan. 1 am convinced that it can only be done successfully
by the one who has absolute control of the mean's of transportation and
supplies.
L therefore beg leave to recommend that this duty be assigned to
the military commander of the department, and that he be instructed
to carry out a plan which, in my humble opinion, will, if carried out
properly, save the country a vast amount of life and treasure and do
much to break down this rebellion.
I have also to report that the First Regiment of South Carolina
Volunteers is filling up rapidly— 550 are already enrolled. More than
CHAI.. xxvi.1 EXPEDITION ALONG COASTS GA. AND F, FLA. 191
1,000 able-bodied negroes are now in the employ of tlie Engineer and
Quartermaster's Departments. Were I to enlist from these I cmild
up the regiment in one day; but I have thus far abstained from any
interference with these departments.
The steamer Darlington was captured from the rebels by the Navv
and was subsequently transferred to the Quartermaster's Department
bhe returned from the expedition completely riddled with rifle balls'
Fortunately but 4 of our men were wounded.
Great credit is due to Colonel Beard, Mr. French, and Captain Trow-
bridge for their bravery and skill in managing the expedition.
I am, sir, with great respect, your obedient servant,
E. SAXTON,
Brigadier- General.
Hon. E. M. ST ANTON,
Secretary of War.
No. 2.
Report of Lieut. Col. Oliver T. Beard, Forty-eighth New York Infantry,
commanding expedition.
BEAUFORT, S. C., November 10, 1862.
GENERAL : I have the honor to report that, as directed by you, I
have tried a portion of the First South Carolina Volunteers (negro
regiment).
On Monday, November 3, with the steamer Darlington, having on
board Captain Trowbridge's company of colored troops (62) I proceeded
up Bell Eiver, Florida, drove in the rebel pickets below Cooper's, and
destroyed their place of rendezvous ; thence proceeded and destroyed
the salt-works, and all the salt, corn, and wagons which we could not
carry awa}r, besides killing the horses ; thence we proceeded to Jolly
Eiver, and destroyed two salt-works, with a large amount of salt and
corn ; thence proceeded to Saint Mary's, and brought off two families of
contrabands, after driving in the enemy's pickets.
On Tuesday, November 4, I proceeded to King's Bay, Georgia, and
destroyed a large salt-work on a creek about a mile from the landing,
together with all the property on the place. Here we were attacked
by about 80 of the enemy, of whom we killed 2.
On Thursday, November 6, landed on Butler Island and brought off
80 bushels of rice ; also landed at Darien and captured 3 prisoners and
some arms.
Friday, November 7, accompanied by the gunboat Potomska, Lieu
tenant Budd commanding, proceeded up Sapello Eiver. The gunboat
could proceed no farther than King's. Lieutenant Budd came on board
the Darlington and proceeded up the river with us to Fairhope. At
Spaukling's we were attacked by 80 or 90 of the enemy, who were well
posted on a bluff behind trees. At this point the channel runs within
50 yards of the bluff. We killed 2 of the enemy and had 1 colored man
wounded. At Fairhope we destroyed the salt-works, some tan-vats,
corn, and other things that might be of use to the enemy.
On return past Spaulding's we were again attacked by the enemy 11
greater force. We effected a landing and burned all the buildings on
the place and captured some arms, &c. Five of the enemy were killed;
192 COASTS OF S. C'., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP XXVI.
we lost 3 wounded. We were greatly aided here by the Potomska,
which from a bend below shelled the woods. Under the guns of the
Potomska we landed at Colonel Bradford's, drove in a company of
pickets from his regiment, and destroyed all the property on the place,
together with the most important buildings.
I am greatly indebted to Lieutenant Budd for the success of this day.
The colored men fought with astonishing coolness and bravery. For
alacrity in effecting landings, for determination, and for bush fighting
I found them all 1 could desire— more than I had hoped. They be
haved bravely, gloriously, and deserve all praise.
I started from Saint Simon's with 62 colored fighting men and re
turned to Beaufort with 150 fighting men (all colored). As soon as we
took a slave from his claimant we placed a musket in his hand arid he
began to fight for the freedom of others.
Hcsides these men we brought off 61 women and children. We de
stroyed nine large salt-works, together with $20,000 worth of horses,
salt, corn, rice, &c., which we could not carry away.
I am, verv respectfully, your obedient servant,
O. T. BEARD,
Lieut. Col. Forty-eighth New York Vols., Comdg. Expedition.
Brig. Gen. RUFUS SAXTON,
Military Governor, Department of the South.
NOVEMBER 13-18, 1862.— Expedition from Beaufort, S. C., to Doboy
River, Ga.
No. 1.— Brig. Gen. Rufus Saxton, U. S. Army.
No. 2.— Lieut. Col. Oliver T. Beard, Forty-eighth New York Infantry, commanding
expedition.
NO. 1.
Report of Brig. Gen. Rufus Saxton, U. S. Army.
BEAUFORT, S. C., November 25, 1862.
SIR : I have the honor to inclose for your information the report of
our expedition to Doboy River, Georgia :
The expedition was composed of three companies of the First South
Carolina Volunteers (colored), under the command of Lieut. Col. Oliver
T. Beard, Forty-eighth New York Volunteers, and was in every respect
a success.
It gives me pleasure to bear witness to the good conduct of the negro
troops. They fought with the most determined bravery. Although
scarcely one month since the organization of this regiment was com
menced, in that short period these untrained soldiers have captured
from the enemy an amount of property equal in value to the cost of the
regiment for a year. They have driven back equal numbers of rebel
troops, and have destroyed the salt-works along the whole line of this
coast.
CIIAI-. XXVI. 1 EXPEDITION TO DOBOY RIVER, GA. 193
Great credit is due to Lieutenant-Colonel Beard for his energy and
skill in the management of this expedition.
I am, sir, with great respect, your obedient servant,
It. SAXTOIST,
Brigadier- General.
Hon. E. M. STANTON,
Secretary of War.
No. 2.
Report of Lieut. Col. Oliver T. Beard, Forty-eighth New York Infantry,
commanding expedition.
BEAUFORT, S. C., November 22, 1862.
GENERAL : I have the honor to report that, as directed by you, I pro
ceeded on the 13th instant, on the U. S. steamer Darlington, with 100
of the First South Carolina Volunteers (colored regiment), in quest of
lumber and other articles needed for the department. The steamer
Ben De Ford, ordered by you to report to me at Doboy Sound, did not,
owing to the heavy fogs and adverse winds, reach that point until the
19th instant.
On the 18th, accompanied by the U. S. gunboat Madgie, I proceeded
to the mills located on Doboy liiver, Georgia. On reaching the mills
I found it necessary to reconnoiter the land adjacent thereto. To do
this it was necessary to cross a narrow causeway, leading from the mill
through a swamp to the main highland, a distance of about 450 yards.
This highland was heavily wooded, except on the summit, which was
cleared and occupied with houses. My men (34 in number) had no
sooner passed across the causeway and through the wood to the clear
ing beyond than they were fired on by the enemy, who were posted in
the thicket in front and on both sides. A t the first fire one man was dan
gerously wounded and a momentary panic seized the men: but it was
only momentary. They speedily rallied and opened a brisk fire on the
places occupied by the concealed enemy. This fire, they kept up with
great regularity and coolness until ordered by me to retire to the end
of the causeway. They retired, 'firing as they went with a slowness and
dcliberateness that could not have been surpassed by veteran troops.
Three others were severely wounded while they were retiring. When
my men reached the end of the causeway I had the bow gun of The
Darlington directed on the wood, aiter which the fire of the enemy
ceased, though numbers of them were seen during the two days and
nights we remained.
I succeeded in loading the steamers Ben Do Ford and Darlington
with from 200,000 to 300,000 feet of superior boards and planks, besides
securing a number of circular and other saws, belting, corn-mills, and
other property, which I was directed by you to obtain for the use ot
your department.
When it is remembered that these men never had arms in their hands
until four days before they started on the expedition 1 think you can-
not fail to give them great praise for standing a galling fire from a con
cealed enemy so bravely and for holding the causeway referred to dur
ing the two days and nights required for loading two large s
with valuable property in the face of an enemy. To d
13 R R— VOL xiv
1 !)4 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CIIAI-. XXVI.
worked day and night without intermission; and, though short of pro
visions. I heard not a murmur.
On the last expedition the fact was developed that colored men would
liirlit behind barricades; this time they have proved, by their heroism,
that they will fight in the open field.
Captain Trowbridge aided me greatly. Captain Grandel, of the Dar
lington, 1 found a trifling, childish pest. Captain Menam, of the gun
boat Madgie, rendered me valuable assistance.
I cannot forbear to make honorable mention of Captain Hallett,oi the
Hen Do Ford. With a man of less nerve and less capacity I would not
have dared to take so large a steamer to such a place, hence I could
not have obtained so valuable a cargo.
I have the honor to be, general, very respectfully, your obedient
SerVaUt) O. T. BEABD,
Lieutenant- Colonel Forty -eighth New York Volunteers.
Brig. Gen. KuFUS SAXTON, U. 8. Vols., Mil. Gov.,Dept. of the South.
JANUARY 23-FEBRUARY 1, 1863.— Expedition from Beaufort, S. C., up
the Saint Mary's River, in Georgia and Florida.
No. 1. — Brig. Gen. Rufus Saxton, U. S. Army.
No. 2. — Col. T. W. Higgiuson, First Soulli Carolina Infantry (Union).
No. 1.
Report of Brig. Gen. Rufus Saxton.
BEAUFORT, S. C., February 2, 1863.
Sm : I have the honor to forward for your information the report of
Col. T. W. Iligginson, First South Carolina Volunteers, of an expedi
tion made by a portion of his regiment up the Saint Mary's liiver, in
Georgia and Florida.
It gives me pleasure to report that the expedition accomplished every
object I had in view in sending it and was a complete success. Great
credit is due to Colonel Higginson for his bravery and skill in penetrat
ing so far into the interior of a country filled with a wary, active foe,
with so small a force. It foreshadows clearly the very important ad
vantages which might result to our cause by the extensive arming of
the blacks. I am laboring diligently toward this end in this depart
ment, but the limited extent of our lines renders it impossible for them
to get to me in any very great numbers. The establishment of posts
on the main-land would enable them to do so. No one knows better
than the traitors now in arms against our Government the great element
of strength which the cause of liberty and the Union has in the hearts
and muscles of these loyal blacks. In my humble opinion it would be
no misapplication of the best energies of the Government should they
now be directed toward the arming and disciplining of every one that
can be brought within our lines.
I am, sir, with great respect, your obedient servant,
R. SAXTOST,
Brigadier- General of Volunteers,
Hon. E, M, STANTON, Secretary of Far,
CHAP. XXVI.l EXPEDITION UP ST. MARY*S RIVER. 195
No. 2.
Report of Col. T. W. Higgimon, First South Carolina Infantry ( Union)*
ON BOARD STEAMER BEN DE FORD,
February 1, 1863.
GENERAL : I have the honor to report the safe return of the expedi
tion under my command, consisting of 462 officers and men of the First
Eegiment South Carolina Volunteers, who left Beaufort on January 23,
on board the steamers John Adams, Planter, and Ben De Ford :
The expedition has carried the regimental flag and the President's
proclamation far into the interior of Georgia and Florida. The men
have been repeatedly under fire; have had infantry, cavalry, and even
artillery arrayed against them, and have in every instance come off not
only with unblemished honor, but with undisputed triumph.
At Township, Fla., a detachment of 4he expedition fought a cavalry
company which met it unexpectedly on a midnight march through pine
woods and which completely surrounded us. They were beaten off,
with a loss on our part of 1 man killed and 7 wounded, while the oppos
ing party admits 12 men killed, including Lieutenant Jones, in com
mand of the company, besides many wounded. So complete was our
victory that the enemy scattered and hid in the woods all night, not
venturing back to his camp, which was 5 miles distant, until noon next
day, a fact which was unfortunately unknown until too late to follow
up our advantage. Had I listened to the urgent appeals of my men and
pursued the fleeing enemy we could have destroyed his camp; but in
view of the darkness, his uncertain numbers, and swifter motions, with
your injunctions of caution, I judged it better to rest satisfied with the
victory already gained.
On another occasion a detachment of about 250 men, on board the
John Adams, fought its way 40 miles up and down a river regarded by
the naval commanders as the most dangerous in the department — the
Saint Mary's— a river left un traversed by our gunboats for many months,
as it requires a boat built like the John Adams to ascend it successfully.
The stream is narrow, swift, winding, and bordered at many places with
high bluffs, which blazed with rifle-shots. With our glasses, as we ap
proached these points, we could see mounted men by the hundred gal
loping through the woods from point to point to await us, and though
fearful of our shot and shell, they were so daring against musketry that
one rebel actually sprang from the shore upon the large boat which was
towed at our stern, where he was shot down by one of my sergeants
We could see our shells scatter the rebels as they fell among them, and
some terrible execution must have been done, but not a man of this
regiment was killed or wounded, though the steamer is covered with
bullet-marks, one of which shows where our brave Captain C
mander of the vessel, fell dead beside his own pilot-house, shot thro
the brain by a Minie ball. Major Strong, who stood beside him, e*
as if by magic, both of them being unnecessarily exposed wit
knowledge.
The secret of our safety was in keeping the regiment below, except
the gunners: but this required the utmost energy of the ofe
men were wild to come on deck, and even implored to be landc
and charge on the enemy.
*In February, 1864, the designation of this regiment was changed to the "Thirty
third United States Colored Infantry."
196 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVI.
Nobodv knows anything about these men who has not seen them in
battie I find that I myself knew nothing. There is a fiery energy
about them beyond anything- of which I have ever read, except it be
the French Zouaves. It requires the strictest discipline to hold them
in hand. During our first attack on the river, before I had got them all
penned below, they crowded at the open ends of the steamer, loading
and tiring with inconceivable rapidity, and shouting to each other,
« Never give it up." When collected into the hold they actually fought
••;:ch other for places at the few port-holes from which they could fire on
the enemy. Meanwhile the black gunners, admirably trained by Lieu
tenants Stockdale and O'Neil, both being accomplished artillerists, and
Mr. Heron, of the gunboat, did their duty without the slightest protec
tion and with great coolness amid a storm of shot.
This river expedition was not undertaken in mere bravado. Captain
Srars, U. S. Army, the contractor of Fort Clinch, had urged upon the
War Department to endeavor to obtain a large supply of valuable bricks,
said to remain at the brick-yarcts, 30 miles up the Saint Mary's, from
which Fort Clinch was originally supplied. The War Department had
referred the matter to Colonel Hawley, who approved my otter to under
take the enterprise. Apart from this, it was the desire of Lieutenant
Hughes, U. S. Navy, commanding U. S. steamer Mohawk, now lying at
Fernandina, to obtain information regarding a rebel steamer, the Berosa,
said to be lying still farther up the river, awaiting opportunity to run
the blockade. Both objects were accomplished; 1 brought away all the
bricks and ascertained the Berosa to be worthless.
I have the honor to state that I have on board the Ben De Ford 250
bars of the best new railroad iron, valued at $5,000, and much needed
in this department. This was obtained on Saint Simon's and Jekyl's
Islands, Georgia, from abandoned rebel forts, a portion of it having
been previously blown up and collected by Captain Steedman, of the
Paul Jones. I have also eight large sticks of valuable yellow-pine
lumber, said to be worth $700, which came from Saint Mary's, Ga. There
is also a quantity of rice, resin, cordage, oars, and other small matters
suitable for army purposes. On board the John Adams there is a flock
of 25 sheep from Woodstock, Fla.
I have turned over to Captain Sears about 40,000 large-sized bricks,
valued at about $1,000, in view of the present high freights. I have
also turned over to Judge Latta, civil provost-marshal at Fernandina,
4 horses, 4 steers, and a quantity of agricultural implements, suitable
for Mr. Helper's operations at that location.
I have seen with my own eyes, and left behind for want of transpor
tation (and because brick was considered even more valuable), enough
of the choicest Southern lumber to load steamers like the Ben De
Ford— an amount estimated at more than 1,000,000 feet, and probably
worth at Hilton Head $50,000. I also left behind, from choice, valu
able furniture by the houseful pianos, china, &c., all packed for trans
portation, as it was sent inland for safe-keeping. Not only were my
officers and men forbidden to take any of these things for private use,
but nothing was taken for public use save articles strictly contraband
f war. No wanton destruction was permitted, nor were any buildings
burned unless in retaliation for being fired upon, according to the usages
ot war. Of course no personal outrage was permitted or desired.
At Woodstock I took 6 male prisoners, whom I brought down the
river as hostages, intending to hind part of them before reaching Fer-
dina and return them on parole, but in view of the previous attack
made upon us from the banks this would have seemed an absurd stretch
CHAP. XXVI.] EXPEDITION UP ST. MARY'S RIVER. 197
of magnanimity, and by the advice of Colonel Hawley I have brought
them for your disposal.
Afc the same place we obtained a cannon and a flag, which I respect
fully ask for the regiment to retain. We obtained also some trophies
of a different description from a slave-jail, which I shall offer for your
personal acceptance— three sets of stocks, of different structure, the
chains and staples used for confining prisoners to the floor, and the key
of the building. They furnish good illustrations of the infernal bar
barism against Avhich we contend.
We returned at the appointed time, although there are many other
objects which I wish to effect, and our rations are not nearly exhausted;
but the Ben De Ford is crowded with freight and the ammunition of
the John Adams is running low. Captain Hallett has been devoted to
our interests, as was also, until his lamented death, the brave Captain
Clifton.
Of the Planter I have hitherto said nothing, as her worn-out machin
ery would have made her perfectly valueless but for the laborious efforts
of Captain Eldridge and her engineer, Mr. Barker, aided by the un
conquerable energy of Captain Trowbridge, of Company A, who had
the command on board. Thanks to this they were enabled during our
absence up the Saint Mary's to pay attention to the salt-works along
the coast.
Finding that the works at King's Bay, formerly destroyed by this
regiment, had never been rebuilt, they proceeded 5 miles up Crooked
River, where salt-works were seen. Captain Trowbridge, with Captain
Rogers' company (F) and 30 men, then marched 2 miles across a marsh,
drawing a boat with them, then sailed up a creek and destroyed the
works. There were 22 large boilers, 2 store-houses, a large quantity of
salt, 2 canoes, with barrels, vats, and all things appertaining.
I desire to make honorable mention not only of the above officers
but of Major Strong, Captain James, Company B; Captain Randolph,
Company C; Captain Metcalf, Company G, and Captain Dolly, Com
pany H. Indeed, every officer did himself credit so far as he had
opportunity, while the cheerfulness and enthusiasm of the men made it
a pleasure to command them.
We found no large number of slaves anywhere; yet we* brought
away several whole families, and obtained by this means the most valu
able information. I was interested to observe that the news of the
President's proclamation produced a marked effect upon them, and in
one case it was of the greatest service to us in securing the hearty aid
of a guide, who was timid and distrustful until he heard that he was
*-* -• • A 1
legally free, after which he aided us gladly and came away with us.
My thanks are due for advice and information to Captain Steedman,
Lilt? UlLUJCliS CVJU.U IllUH \JL l; 1.1 10 -i*_.£,i«« ~ p>- 1 , .
employed in obtaining these supplies for the Government iron
sources; but they would like still better to be permitted to^*W*>™
advanced point 'in the interior v.ith a steamer or two like the Jo
<Ml \ cUUJdl pOlLlt ill I LIVJ iiiLV !«•>'-
Adams and an adequate supply of ammunition. tt t- couli
198 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVI,
jrreat extent our own provisions, could rapidly enlarge our numbers,
and could have information in advance of every movement against us.
A chain of such posts would completely alter the whole aspect of the
war in the .sea -board slave States, and would accomplish what no accu
mulation of Northern regiments can so easily effect.
No officer in this regiment now doubts that the key to the successful
prosecution of this war lies in the unlimited employment of black troops.
Their superiority lies simply in the fact that they know the country,
while white troops do not, and, moreover, that they have peculiarities
of temperament, position, and motive which belong to them alone.
Instead of leaving their homes and families to tight they are fighting
for their homes and families, and they show the resolution and the
sagacity which a personal purpose gives. It would have been madness
to attempt, with the bravest white troops what I have successfully
accomplished with black ones. Everything, even to the piloting of the
vessels and the selection of the proper points for cannonading, was
done by my own soldiers. Indeed, the real conductor of the whole
expedition up the Saint Mary's was Corpl. Eobert Sutton, of Company
G, formerly a slave upon the Saint Mary's Eiver, a man of extraordi
nary qualities, who needs •nothing but a knowledge of the alphabet to
entitle him to the most signal promotion. In every instance when I
followed his advice the predicted result followed, and I never departed
from it, however slightly, without finding reason for subsequent regret.
I have the honor to be, general, very respectfully, your obedient
servant,
T. W. HIGGINSON,
Colonel, Comdg. First Regiment South Carolina Volunteers.
Brigadier-General SAXTON,
Military Governor, &c.
JANUARY 27, 1863.— Naval attack on Fort McAllister, Ga.
Report of General O. T. Beauregard, C. S. Army, commanding the
•Department of South Carolina, Georgia, and Florida.
CHARLESTON, S. C., January 28, 1863.
Two enemy's gunboats and three steamers attacked for several hours
yesterday Fort [McAllister), Genesis Point, on Great Ogeechee. Attack
repulsed; nobody hurt in fort, Two steamers went out this harbor
safely last night and one came in with various army supplies.
G. T. BEAUEEGAED.
General S. COOPER,
Adjutant and Inspector- General.
JANUARY 29, 1863.— Expedition to Daufuskie Island, S. C.
Report of Capt, J. H. Midler, C. S. Army, commanding Battalion.
CAMP PALMETTO,
Bluffton, S. C., January 30, 18G3.
[beg leave respectfully to report to Lieut. Col. F. H. Gantt,
Commanding post, that, in consequence of information furnished me by
XXVI] CAPTURE OF U. S. S. ISAAC SMITH. 109
Mr. - - Magec (a scout from district headquarters), I proceeded on
yesterday, the 29th instant, to Daufuskic Island, where I succeeded
in capturing 12 negroes, the only occupants of the island. As they
proved to be old persons, several of them imbeciles, I did not think
proper to remove them. An examination of three hours disclosed a re
markable accumulation of valuable bed furniture, clothing, provisions,
dry goods, and sundries, besides silver and gold coin to the amount of
$188, which latter I have turned over for the use of the people of Fred-
ericksburg. I have also reported to the quartermaster's department 1
keg and 2 bags of nails, 172 pounds of bacon, 2 muskets and a shot
gun, besides a small quantity of rope.
I was accompanied by 10 men from my company and 5 from company
B, Eleventh Eegiment South Carolina Volunteers, and Mr. Magee.
Having only two boats of limited capacity I was able to bring off only
a small proportion of the spoils. The men, however, succeeded in sup
plying themselves bountifully with many necessary articles of clothing,
blankets, £c. For prudential reasons 1 did not think proper to burn
what I was unable to remove.
The men all behaved well. The value of the articles removed is not
less than $2,000.
J. H. MICKLER,
Captain, Commanding Battalion at Bluffton.
C. F. DAVIS, Post Adjutant.
JANUARY 30, 1863. — Capture of U. S. steamer Isaac Smith, Stono River S. C.
REPORTS.*
No. 1.— General G. T. Beaurogard, C. S. Army, commanding Department of South
Carolina, Georgia, and Florida.
No. 2.— Brig. Gen. Roswell S. Ripley, C. S. Army, commanding First Military Dis
trict.
No. 3.— Lieut. Col. Joseph A. Yates, First South Carolina Artillery, commanding
expedition.
No. 4.— Maj. J. Welsman Brown, Second South Carolina Artillery.
No. 5.— Capt. John H. Gary, Fifteenth South Carolina Heavy Artillery.
No. 1.
Reports of General G. T. Beauregard, C. S. Army, commanding Depart-
ment of South Carolina, Georgia, and Florida.
CHARLESTON, S. C., January 30, 18G3.
Enemy's gunboat Isaac Smith (eleven guns) surrendered to-day in
the Stono to Lieutenant Colonel Yates after a short engagement, with
siege rifle guns in open field. ^ ^ BEAUREGARD.
9
General S. COOPER,
Adjutant and Inspector- General.
December 7, 1863.
200 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA, [CHAP. XXVI.
CHARLESTON, S. C., January 31, 18G3.
Trap laid for enemy's gunboat-steamer Isaac Smith in Stono River
(nine guns. Captain Conover) succeeded perfectly yesterday. It sur
rendered unconditionally after a short struggle, badly crippled, having
s killed, 14 wounded, and 95 prisoners, including 10 officers. Our loss
only 1 mortally wounded.
*******
G. T. BEAUEEGAED.
General S. COOPER.
Ko. 2.
Report of Brig. Gen. Roswell S. Riplcy, C. 8. Army, commanding First
Military District.
HEADQUARTERS FIRST MILITARY DISTRICT,
DEPT. OF SOUTH CAROLINA, GEORGIA, AND FLORIDA,
Charleston, S. 0., February 4, 18G3.
GENERAL :• I have the honor to inclose copies of Special Orders, Xos.
36 and 38,* from these headquarters, and the reports of Lieutenant-
Colonels Yates and Brown and Captain Gary, showing how they wrere
executed. The successful capture of the steamer reflects the highest
credit upon the officers and men engaged, and I heartily concur with
the commendations of their respective -commanders. A liwt of prisoners
taken is also inclosed.* The only casualty on our side was the mortal
wound of Private McQueen, of Alston's battalion of artillery.
The Isaac Smith is but slightly damaged, and I hope soon to have
her and her full armament ready for service. The sword of the com
manding officer and the flags of the captured steamer are also trans
mitted' herewith.
I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
E. S. EIPLEY,
Brigadier- General, Commanding.
Brig. Gen. THOMAS JORDAN,
Chief of Staff.
[Indorsement.]
HDQRS. DEPT. SOUTH CAROLINA, GEORGIA, AND. FLORIDA.,
Charleston, 8. C., February G, 1863.
On or about the 20th ultimo I ordered General Eipley to have prepa
rations made to surprise the enemy's gunboats in the Stono by means of
boats or barges with muffled oars. Shortly after he reported tbtit prob-
abjy it might be preferable to put eight or ten guns suddenly in position
on the west side of the Stouo during the night, so as to cut' off the gun
boats when they came up the river. This proposition was approved by
me, provided the ground afforded cover for such a mode of attack. He
offered to semfcLieut. Col. J. [A.] Yates to make the necessary recon
naissances. This excellent officer went and reported favorably on his
return. I then ordered the attack to be made with as many rifled siege
guns and guns from the siege train as could find cover there from viewr,
properly supported by infantry, guarding the approaches from Edisto
* Not found.
CHAP. XXVI.] CAPTURE OF U. S. 8. ISAAC SMITH. 201
with cavalry. I ordered also three rifled 24-ponnder guns to be put
in position at or about Grimball's and two more at or about Battery
Island (both positions situated on the east side of the Stono), to assist
in the attack, taking advantage, of whatever shelter those localities af
forded, the expedition to take place as soon and as secretly as practica
ble. I left its details to General Ripley, and well has he (Colonel Yates)
and all who took part in it, executed my instructions. The vessel has
been secured and will be speedily repaired and ready for service as a
guard-boat in this harbor. She is said to be very fast. Her armament
will be much reduced, and the guns taken from her will be most use
fully employed here and at Savannah.
G. T. BEAUREGARD,
General, Commanding.
No. 3.
Report of Lieut. Col. Joseph A. Yates, First South Carolina Artillery,
commanding expedition.
HEADQUARTERS SPECIAL EXPEDITION,
Charleston, 8. 6'., February 1, 18G3.
CAPTAIN: T have the honor to report that, in obedience to instruc-.
tions from district headquarters, a secret expedition was organized for
the purpose of attacking the enemy's gunboats in Stono River, consist
ing of the following troops: The siege train — composed of Capt. B. C.
Webb's company (A) and Lieut. S. W. Willson, jr., commanding Com
pany B — commanded by Maj. Charles Alston, jr.; Capt. F. C. Schulz's
company (F), Palmetto Light Artillery Battalion; light battery, manned
by Capt. F. H. Harleston's company (D), First South Carolina Artillery
(regulars); one Parrot t gun, in charge of Lieut. T. E. Gregg, Third
Howitzers (siege train); Capt. John C. Mitchel's company (I), First
South Carolina Artillery (regulars). Company H, Capt. S. M. Roof,
and Company I, Lieut. M. Gunter commanding (Twentieth Regiment
South Carolina Volunteers), acted as sharpshooters.
On the afternoon of January 30, at 4.30 o'clock, the enemy's gunboat
Isaac Smith, mounting one 30- pounder Parrott gun and eight 8-inch
heavy columbiads, came up the Stono River, passing our batteries
(which were masked at Legare's Point Place and at Grimball's, on John's
Island), and came to anchor a little above them. She was immediately
fired upon from our guns posted at Grimball's, on James Island, when
she attempted to make good her escape, fighting our batteries (which
had then opened) on John's Island as she passed. She succeeded in
getting as far as Legare's Point Place, at which point she was disabled
by three shots striking her machinery, when slie dropped anchor and
unconditionally surrendered. We took prisoners her entire crew, con
sisting of 11 officers, 105 men, and 3 negroes.
The enemy's loss was 25 killed and wounded; on our side 1 man
wounded (since died).
Major Alston commanded the batteries at Grimball's, on John's
Island; Captain Harleston those at Point Place. Captain Mitchel com
manded the sharpshooters. Lieut. Charles Inglesby, First South Caro
lina Artillery, acted as adjutant.
The officers and men under my command behaved with great coolnes^
and bravery, lighting their guns without breastworks, entirely exposed
to the enemy's fire within' 200 or 300 yards.
202 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVT.
The Smith lias been towed up the Stono and put under the guns of
Fort IVmhiTton.
In dosing my report I will not omit to mention the very signal serv
ice rendered by the Stono Scouts, and also Capt. John [B. L.] Walpole.
The members of the Signal Corps detailed to accompany the expedi
tion discharged their duties with great efficiency.
I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
JOSEPH A. YATES,
Lieutenant- Colonel, Commanding Expedition.
Capt. W. F. NANCE,
Assistant Adjutant- General.
No. 4.
Report of Maj. J. Welsman Brown, Second South Carolina Artillery.
HEADQUARTERS,
Secessionville, S. (7., February 1, 1863.
CAPTAIN: I have the honor to make the following report:
Pursuant to Special Orders, No. G, Headquarters East James Island,
on the afternoon of Tuesday, the 27th ultimo, I detailed 25 men from
Company B, Second South Carolina Artillery Volunteers, and the same
number from Company K, under the immediate command of Lieuten
ants [John A.] Bellinger and [F.] Lake; and also 50 men from the
Eighth Battalion Georgia Volunteers, under charge of Lieutenants [B.]
Hays and [George] Johnson, to act as sharpshooters, and moved two
rifled 24-pounders to Legar6's place, on Stono River. We reached the
position indicated about 7 p. m. and concealed the guns in the woods.
The night was exceedingly cold and wet, and this circumstance, together
with the fact that the command was exhausted by the labor of hauling
the guns by hand over a very bad road, prevented my placing the pieces
in position that night.
The next morning, Wednesday [28th], three of the enemy's gunboats
were discovered below, near Cole's Island, and so situated as to be in
lull view of our operations, should we have attempted to erect our plat
forms during daylight. I therefore kept guns and men under cover
and waited until after dark. After a hard night's work the platforms
were finished and every arrangement made to comply with my instruc
tions, which were in effect to allow the enemy's vessels to pass my posi
tion unmolested on their way up the river and not to open fire until
they returned or began the attack upon me.
Nothing occurred until Friday afternoon [30th], about 4 o'clock, when
the approach of a three-masted gunboat was announced. I allowed her
to pass my battery, which she fortunately did without suspicion, and
immediately moved my guns from their concealment to the platforms,
shifted them from the traveling trunnion beds, and awaited the return
of the boat. In a short time a furious cannonade began up the river,
but with what effect I could not see, as the trees obscured the view.
Soon, however, the boat rounded the point into sight, evidently crip
pled, but keeping up a running fight with the shore batteries above my
position on each side of the river. I was about to order my guns to
open upon her when I perceived that she had a white flag flying, in
token of her surrender. Just at this moment another gunboat was
CHAP. XXVI.1 CAPTURE OF U. S. S. ISAAC SMITH. 203
observed approaching, which steamed up within 1J miles of my position
and fired a shot at the battery on John's Island. Finding that she did
not intend going higher up, or that if she did so she might rescue or
destroy the prize, as she now began to throw shot and shell at the
latter, I opened my guns upon her with good effect. She replied, but
without damage to us, and retreated down and across the river. I kept
up fire until she got beyond range, striking her repeatedly. She con
tinued to throw an occasional shot or shell toward the opposite side of
the river until dark and during the night disappeared.
On Saturday morning [31st], at 8 o'clock, another gunboat approached
and shelled the village of Legareville, also throwing several projectiles
within our vicinity ; but she did not come near enough to warrant my
attacking her. In the afternoon she again steamed up and opened oil
the prize captured the night before and upon my batteries. I returned
the fire, striking her several times, and she withdrew. The next morn
ing (Sunday, 1st Instant) I brought my guns back to this post in obe
dience to orders.
Both officers and men under my command behaved as well as possi
ble. They were not only cool and prompt under fire, but proved them
selves model soldiers by bearing without a murmur the hardships neces
sarily entailed by our position, for the weather, particularly during the
night, was extremely severe, and the secrecy to be observed debarred
the comforts of fire or shelter. I have no casualties to report.
I am, captain, yours, respectfully,
j. WELSMAN BKOWN,
Major, Second South Carolina Volunteer Artillery.
Capt. W. F. NANCE,
Assistant Adjutant- General.
No. 5.
Report of Capt. John H. Gary, Fifteenth South Carolina Heavy Artillery.
BATTERY MEANS,
James Island, S. C., February 1, 1863.
CAPTAIN: I have the honor to make the following report:
Pursuant to Orders, No. 38, District Headquarters, I was detailed by
Major [J. J.J Lucas, commanding Western Division, James Island, to
take charge of the batteries stationed at Mr. Thomas GrimbalPs, James
Island, consisting of three 24-pounder rifled guns, manned by detach
ments from Companies A, B, and 0, Lucas' battalion of artillery,
[Fifteenth South Carolina], Confederate States Provisional Army, com
manded by Lieuts. W. G. Ogier, E. B. Colhoun, and Capt. T. B. Hayne,
respectively. Between the hours of 3 and 4 o'clock on the afternoon
the 30th ultimo the gunboat Isaac Smith made her appearance i
anchored off Mr. Thomas Grimball's, some 500 yards distant from my
batteries. After waiting some twenty minutes and the Ab<
showing no disposition to land I ordered my batteries to open hre, whic
they did in handsome style and apparently with great pre
enemy immediately returned the fire with grape, canister, s
Parrott shot, at the same time slipping her cable and retreating
the river. While retreating the firing was kept up on both si
A grape-shot from the enemy struck the gun commanded
204 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVI.
1 1 ay ne, but without damage. The firing was continued by iny batteries
until the Smith struck her flag.
I ha vi- no casualties to report. I cannot, however, close this report
without calling attention to the gallantry and spirit displayed both by
the ollicers and men whom I had the honor to command. I would also
incut inn Messrs. II. W. llice and Pettigrew Mellard, of the Signal Corps,
as having rendered etlicient service.
IN -spout fully, your obedient servant,
JOHN H. GABY,
Captain, Commanding Batteries at Thomas GrimbaWs.
Capt. W. F. NANCE,
Assistant Adjutant- General.
JANUARY 31, 1863.— Attack on Blockading Squadron off Charleston, S. C.
REPORTS, ETC.*
No. 1. — General G. T. Beauregard, C. S. Army, with correspondence and proclamation.
No. 2. — Flag-Officer Duncan N. Ingraham, C. S. Navy.
No. 3. — Commander John R. Tucker, C. S. Navy.
No. 4.— Col. Ambrose A. Lechler, One hundred and seventy-sixth Pennsylvania In
fantry, et (il.
NO. 1.
%
Report of General G. T. Beauregard^ C. S. Army, icith correspondence and
proclamation.
<%
CHARLESTON, S. 0., January 31, 1863. t
* * * * * * * *
Last night Confederate gunboats Chicora and Palmetto State, under
Commodore In grab am, sank (outside) the steamer Mercedita. Captain
Tucker set h're to one vessel, which struck her flag, and thinks he sank
another. Our loss and damage none. Enemy's whole fleet has dis
persed north and south. I am going to proclaim blockade of Charles
ton raised.
G. T. BEAUREGARD,
General, Commanding.
General S. COOPER, Adjutant and Inspector General.
HDQRS. DEPT. SOUTH CAROLINA, GEORGIA, AND FLORIDA,
Charleston. 8. C., January 31, 1803.
Baron de ST. ANDRE,
Consul of France, Charleston* 8. C.:
SIR: I am instructed to call your attention officially to the fact that
Confederate States naval forces on this station this morning, about
the hour of 5 o'clock, attacked (he United States Blockading Squadron
the harbor ofCharleston, at their habitual place of anchorage, and
* For reports of Bear-Admiral DnPot.t, Capts. WiiiianTRrTavlor and Heiiry"s.
btelhvageu Commander William E.LeHoy and Actii;- Lieut, P. G'. Watmongfe, U. S.
fcavy, see Amiiml Report, of the Secretary of Hie Navy, dated December 7, 1*63.
tiortiou of dispatch here omitted ispsiiited on p 's-Oc
CHAP. XXVI.j ATTACK ON BLOCKADING SQUADRON. 205
after a brief engagement sunk, dispersed, or drove off and out of sight
for the time the whole hostile fleet. And I am further instructed to
call your attention to the fact that this summary destruction and dis
persion of the fleet of the United States, constituting the blockading
force of this harbor, by the superior force of the Confederate States,
operates as an entire defeasance of the blockade of the port of Charles
ton and of its operation, The rule of public law requiring that there
should be a notification of a new blockade before foreign nations can
be affected with an obligation of observing it as a blockade still exist
ing, it is deemed necessary to give you now this formal notification of
the fact.
Should you desire I shall be pleased to place at your disposition a
steamer for the purpose of satisfying yourself of the unobstructed con
dition of this port.
Eespectfully, your obedient servant,
THOMAS JOED AN,
Brigadier- General and Chief of Staff.
A similar letter sent to Senor Francisco Munez Moncada, Her Catholic
Majesty's consul, Charleston.
CHARLESTON, S. C., January 31, 1863.
Some of enemy's vessels have returned, but for several hours (three
or four) none were in sight. Was blockade raised or not? What says
Attorney- General! {Shall I publish my proclamation, written mean
while^
G. T. BEAUREGARD.
General S. COOPER,
Adjutant and Inspector -General.
HDQRS. DEPT. SOUTH CAROLINA, GEORGIA, AND FLORIDA,
Charleston, S. C., January 31, 1863.
Capt. D. N. INGRAHAM,
Commanding Naval Station, Charleston, S. C. :
MY DEAR COMMODORE: Permit me to congratulate you and the gal
lant officers and men under your command for your brilliant achieve
ment of last night, which will be classed hereafter v
Merrimac and Arkansas.
May your efforts be always crowned with the same succ<
sincere wish of your friend, G T BEAUREGARD.
PROCLAMATION.
HEADQUARTERS LAND AND NAVAL FORCES,
Charleston, S. (7., January 31 SO
At about 5 o'clock this morning the Confederate
on this station attacked the United States Blockading
harbor of the city of Charleston, and sunk dispersed, 01 il
out of sight for the time the entire hostile fleet.
206 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVI.
Therefore we, the undersigned, commanders respectively of the Con-
frdrratt' States naval and land forces in this quarter, do hereby formally
dec-lair the blockade by the United States of the said city of Charles
ton, S. 0., to be raised by a superior force of the Confederate States
from and after this 31st day of January, A. D. 18G3.
G. T. BEAUEEGAED,
General, Commanding.
D. N. 1NGEAHAM,
Flag -Officer Commanding Naval Forces in South Carolina.
Official:
THOMAS JOED AN,
Chief of Staff.
SPANISH CONSULATE,
Charleston, February 1, 18G3.
Mr. THOMAS JORDAN,
Brig. Gen. and Chief of Staff of the Dept. of 8. C., Ga., and Fla. :
MY DEAR SIR : I take pleasure in replying to your communication
of the 31st of January last, respecting the notification of the raising the
blockade at Charleston by the naval force of the Confederate States.
I should inform you that I remitted a copy of the same communication
to his excellency the minister plenipotentiary at Washington. I thank
you for your kind offer in placing a steamer at my disposal so that I
may go and satisfy myself as to the condition of the port. Having gone
out in company with the French consul, and arrived at the point where
the Confederate naval forces were, we discovered three steamers and a
pilot boat returning. I must also mention that the British consul at
this port manifested to me verbally that some time subsequent to this
naval combat not a single blockading vessel was in sight.
I avail myself of this opportunity to otfer you my sincere respects.
MUNEZ DE 'MONCADA,
Spanish Consul.
CHARLESTON, February 2, 1863.
(Eeceived Eichrnoud, February 2.)
General S. COOPER :
After consulting law authorities Commodore Ingraham and myself
have issued proclamation raising blockade of Charleston. Shall send
copy to Government agent at Nassau and officer commanding enemy's
fleet, which has returned in front of this harbor.
G. T. BEAUEEGAED.
No. 2.
Report of Flag- Officer Duncan N. Ingraham, C. 8. Navy.
OFFICE NAVAL STATION,
Charleston, S. C., February 2, 1863.
SIR: 1 have the honor to inform you that upon the night of the 30th
ultimo I left the wharf at this place iu company with the steam-ram
CIIAI-. XXVI.] ATTACK ON BLOCKADING SQUADRON. 207
Chicora, Commander John E. Tucker, at 11.15 o'clock, and steamed
slowly down to the bar, as from our draught we could not cross until
high water. At 4.30 o'clock we crossed the bar with about a foot and
a half to spare, and soon after made a steamer at anchor; made for her
and directed Lieutenant-Commander [John] Eutledge to strike her with
our prow. When quite near we were hailed : "What steamer is that ?
Drop your anchor or you will be into us." He was informed that it was
the Confederate steamer Palmetto State. At this moment we struck
her and fired the 7-inch gun into her as he gave an order to fire. I
then inquired if he surrendered, and was answered in the affirmative.
I then directed him to send a boat on board, which was done. After
some delay Lieutenant Abbott, commanding, came on board and in
formed me that the vessel was the United States steamer Mercedita,
Commander Stellwagen, and that she was in a sinking condition, and
had a crew of 158, all told, and wished to be relieved ; that all his boats
were lowered without the plugs being in and were full of water.
At this time the Chicora was engaged with the enemy and the alarm
was given. I knew our only opportunity was to take the enemy un
awares, as the moment he was under way, from his superior speed, we
could not close with him. I then directed Lieutenant Eutledge, com
manding, to require from Lieutenant-Commander Abbott his word of
honor for his commander, officers, and crew that they would not serve
against the Confederate States until regularly exchanged, when he was
directed to return with his boat to his vessel to render what assistance
he could. I then stood to the northward and eastward, and soon after
made another steamer getting under way. We stood for her and fired
several shots at her, but as we had to fight the vessel in a circle to bring
the different guns to bear she was soon out of our range. In this way
we engaged several vessels, they keeping at long range and steering to
the southward. Just as the day broke we made a large steamer (sup
posed to be the Powhatan) on starboard bow, with another steamer in
company, which had just got under way. They stood to the southward
under, full steam and opened their batteries upon the Chicora, which
was some distance astern of us. I then turned and stood to the south
ward to support the Chicora, if necessary, but the enemy kept on his
course to the southward. I then made signal to Commander Tucker to
come to anchor, and led the way to the entrance of Beach Channel,
where we anchored at 8.45 a. m., and had to remain seven hours for the
tide, as the vessels cannot cross the bar except at high water. The sea
was perfectly smooth, as much so as in the harbor. Everything was
most favorable for us and gave us no opportunity to test the sea quali
ties of the boats. The engines worked well and we obtained a greater
speed than they had ever before attained.
I cannot speak in too high terms of the conduct of Commander Tucker
and Lieutenant-Commander Eutledge. The former handled his vessel
ill a beautiful manner and did the enemy much damage. I refer you to
his official report. Lieutenant-Commander Eutledge also fought the
Palmetto State in a manner highly gratifying to me.
Every officer and man did his duty nobly and deserves well of thei
country.
We had but little opportunity of trying our vessels, as the enemy du
not close, and not a single shot struck either vessel.
I am highly indebted to Commander [H. J.] Hartstene, who gallantly
volunteered to take charge of three steamers, with 50 men on I
accompanied us in case we should need their services, but
not get over the bar, but joined us after daylight at the tf on teij
208 COASTS OF S C , GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVI.
and rendered us their assistance in getting through the channel, which
is very narrow.
Of the conduct of Mr. — - Gladden, the pilot of the Palmetto State,
I cannot speak in too high terms. He was perfectly cool under the great
responsibility he had in taking the vessel over at night with so great a
draught, and during the action rendered me great assistance in pointing
out the vessels as we approached them in the uncertain light.
I send the reports of Commander Tucker and Lieutenant-Commander
llutledge.*
I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
D. N. INGEAHAM,
Flag- Officer, Commanding.
Hon. S. E. MALLORY,
Secretary of the Navy, Richmond, Va.
No. 3.
Report of Commander John R. Tucker, C. S. Navy.
CONFEDERATE STATES STEAMER CHICORA,
January 31, 1863.
SIR : In obedience to your order I got under way at 11.30 p. m. yes
terday and stood down the harbor in company with the Confederate
States steamer Palmetto State, bearing your flag. We crossed the bar
at 4.40 a. m., and commenced the. action at 5.20 a. m. by firing into a
schooner rigged propeller, which we set on tire, and have reason to be
lieve sunk, as she was nowhere to be seen at daylight. We then en
gaged n large side-wheel steamer twice our length from us, on the port
bow, firing three shots into her with telling effect, when she nmde a
run for it. This vessel was supposed to be the Quaker City. We then
engaged a schooner-rigged propeller and a large side-wheel steamer,
partially crippling both and setting on fire the latter, causing her to
strike her flag. At this time the latter vessel, supposed to be the Key
stone State, was completely at my mercy, having a raking position
astern, distance some 200 yards. 1 at once gave the order to cease tir
ing upon her and directed Lieutenant Bier, first lieutenant of the Chi-
cora, to man a boat and take charge of the prize; if possible, to save
her. If that was not possible to rescue the crew. While the boat was
in tUe act of being manned 1 discovered that she was endeavoring to
make her escape by working her starboard wheel, the other being dis
abled. Her colors being down, I at once started in pursuit and re
newed the engagement. Owing to her superior steaming qualities she
soon widened the distance to some 2,000 yards. She then hoisted her
flag and commenced firing her rifled gun, 'her commander, by this faith
less act, placing himself beyond the pale of civilized-ami honorable
warfare. We next engaged two schooners — one brig and one bark-
rigged propeller— but not having the requisite speed, were unable to
bring them to close quarters. We pursued them 6 or 7 miles seaward.
During the engagement (near its termination) 1 was engaged at long
range with a lar ' '
our
superior
we
* Lieutenant-Commander Rutledjje's report not found.
CIMI-. XXVI.] ATTACK ON BLOCKADING SQUADRON. 209
about 7 miles clear of the bar, standing to the southward and eastward
At 8 a. in., in obedience to signal, we anchored in 4-fathom water off the
Beach Channel.
It gives me pleasure to testify to the good conduct and efficiency of
the officers and crew of the Chicora, I am particularly indebted to'the
pilots, Messrs. Payne and Aldert, for the skillful pilotage of the vessel
It gives me pleasure to report that I have no injuries or casualties.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
J. E. TUCKEE,
Commander, C. 8. Navy.
Flag-Officer D. N. INGRAHAM, C. S. Navy.
[Inclosure.]
We, the undersigned, certify that a steamer (side-wheel) supposed
to be the Keystone State, not only struck her flag on the morning of
January 31, but that we saw a number of her men' rush upon the after-
part of her deck and extend their arms toward us in an imploring man
ner, she being at that time completely at our mercy, distant from us
some 200 yards.
G. H. BIEE,
C. S. Navy, First Lieutenant and Exec. Officer Chicora.
W. T. GLASSELL, Lieutenant.
BENJAMIN F. SHELBY,
Squadron Quartermaster.
No. 4.
Report of Col. Ambrose A. Lechler, One hundred and seventy-sixth Penn
sylvania Infantry et al.
HDQRS. 176TH EEGIMENT PENNSYLVANIA MILITIA,
tSaint Helena Island, S. C., February 21, 18G3.
SIR: Having seen a proclamation issued by General Beauregard and
Commodore Ingraham to the effect that upon the morning of the 31st
ultimo they had by force of arms succeeded in dispersing the blockad
ing fleet which was lying off Charleston Harbor, and also a statement
purporting to have come from the English consul for that port and the
commanding officer of the English man-of-war Petrel that they had
gone out to a point 5 miles beyond the usual anchorage of the blockad
ing fleet and that not a single vessel could be seen even with the aid
of powerful glasses, and that consequently the blockade had been most
effectually raised, and knowing as we do the above statement to be
utterly false in every particular, we feel constrained to tender our evi
dence as corroboratory of that already furnished.
On the evening of January 29 the One hundred and seventy-sixth
Eegiment Pennsylvania Militia (with which we are connected) left
Morehead City, N. C., on board steamer Cossack, destined for Port
Koyal. Upon the morning of the 31st, when near Charleston, could
hear firing distinctly. Upon our arrival off the harbor, which was at
about 8.30 in the morning, found lying there the blockading squadron,
some of which were at anchor, and also the prize steamer Princess
Itoyal. The distance from land at which they were was estimated to
be from 4 to 5 miles, and although the morning was somewhat hazy,
yet the laud could be plainly seen on each side of the harbor. V ess
14 R R — YOL xiv
210 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVI.
could be seen in the iulets, and by the aid of the glass a fort, said to have
been Siimter, was visible. We were right in the midst ot the fleet, so
near as to be able to carry on a conversation with the Housatonic;
were boarded by officers from it and the Quaker City. We remained
there until about 9 o'clock. Shortly after we departed the Princess
Royal followed.
Being thus near the site of the engagement, and so soon after it came
off, we do not hesitate in the least to pronounce the statement that the
blockade was raised not only absurd, but utterly arid willfully false in
every particular; and the statement of the English consul and the com-
inander of the Petrel that the squadron could not be seen even with the
aid of powerful glasses is one equally false, and one that impels us to
conclude that it would require a powerful glass truly to be able to
discover one particle of truth or honesty in the composition of these
gentlemen. The entire regiment can substantiate the above facts, and
burn with indignation that gentlemen occupying high stations as they
do should resort to such base fabrications to prop up a failing cause.
We have the honor, sir, to be, your most obedient servants,
A. A. LECHLER,
Col.. Comclg. One hundred and seventy-sixth Regt. Penn. Militia.
W. F. FUNDENBURG,
Surgeon. One hundred and seventy-sixth Regiment Penn. Militia.
TAYLOR G. NEWBURY,
Captain Steamship Cossack.
Bear- Admiral S. F. DuPoNT,
Comdg. South Atlantic Blockading Squadron.
JANUARY 31, 1863.— Affair on Bull Island, S. C.
Report of Capt. Charles T. Haskell. jr., C. S. Army, commanding post.
BATTERY MARSHALL, S. C., February 3, 1863.
SIR : For the purpose of preparing to carry out orders issued to me
I left Sullivan's Island on the afternoon of January 30 with 7 men and
landed at Gibbes' house, on Bui) Island, that evening about dark. I
spent the next morning in exploring the different creeks back of the
island, and was just proceeding to recounoiter the position of the gun
boat Flambeau, lying near, when I met with and captured a man call
ing himself the chief engineer of the Flambeau. He was armed with
an Enfield rifle and a navy revolver, but said he was only out on a
shooting expedition. I sent him oft' in my boat to the west end of the
island, and supposing that he had companions, concealed myself and
fired off his gun to entice them. Another man soon came up with a
negro. I took the former prisoner, but the negro ran away. The man
professed to be second lieutenant and acting master of the Flambeau,
was armed with a musket, and gave the same account of himself as the
first. I hurried him off to the west end of the island and sent both to
Sullivan's Island, sending at the same time to ask that 50 men should
be sent me.
I remained on the island that night, and about sunset the Flambeau
came uround to within a quarter of a mile of Gibbes' house, and coming
to anchor within 200 yards of the island, sent from 100 to 120 men
ashore. They advanced a short distance, searched Gibbes' settlement,
and went aboard again. I slept at Gibbes' house that night, and the
CIIAI-. XXVI.] ATTACK ON FORT M7ALLISTER. 211
my scouts, who informed me that the enemy had landed and were ad
vancing. Directly afterward I saw them myself, about 75 men in front,
with a reserve of about 50 more about 500 yards farther back. They
were marching through an open field in close order. 1 formed my men
(45, the rest having been left at the boats) just back of Gibbes' sum
mer-house, and as they came up gave them a volley from half of my
force, ordering the remainder to reserve their fire, as 1 expected them
to charge me. It seemed to take them by surprise, as they had not
yet seen me, and they immediately retreated in confusion, returning my
fire as they went. The very dense thicket prevented my lire from being
very effective. They left one man dead on the ground ; a first lieutenant
of marines, commanding the detachment, was apparently mortally
wounded, and another man also appeared to be wounded. 1 knew that
they had a launch with a rifled gun on it, with which they could de
stroy my boats and cut off my retreat, and having only one day's rations,
I considered it best to cross over to Capers' Island and wait for re-en
forcements. I accordingly, after waiting for them to renew the attack
about half an hour, marched back to my boats and crossed over the
inlet dividing the two islands, sending off a boat at the same time to
ask for re-enforcements.
I waited on Capers7 Island until the next evening at 8 o'clock, when
I received orders to return to Sullivan's Island. I set out at 9 o'clock
and arrived at this post early this morning.
I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
CHAKLES T. HASKELL, JR.,
Captain, Commanding Post.
Capt. W. F. NANCE, A A. G. First Military District.
FEBRUARY 1, 1863.— Naval attack on Fort McAllister, Genesis Point, Ga.
, ETC.*
No. 1.— General G. T. Beauregard, C. S. Army, commanding Department of South
Carolina, Georgia, and Florida, with congratulatory orders.
No. 2. — Maj. Henry Bryan, Assistant Inspector-General, C. . Army.
No. 3.— Col. R. H. Anderson, C. S. Army, commanding forces on the Ogeechee River.
No. 4.— Capt. George W. Anderson, jr., Georgia Artillery, commanding Fort Mc
Allister.
No. 5.— Capt, Robert Martin, Georgia Artillery, commanding mortar and light bat-
teries.
No. 1.
Report of General G. T. Beauregard, C. S. Army, commanding Depart
ment of South Carolina, Georgia, and Florida, with congratulatory
orders.
CHARLESTON, S. C., February 2, 1
General H. W. Mercer reports quite a success at Genesis Point yes-
* The Union vessels enga^^rTtl^A^nk, 0/7^118 Dawn, Seneca, and
Wissahickon. For report & Commander John L. \\ orden U. S
Report of the Secretary of the Navy, dated December 7, «
212 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVI.
terday after five hours7 firing from one monitor, four gunboats, and one
mortar boat. Monitor came to 800 yards of battery— principally one
rifled 32-pounder and one 8-inch columbiad ; was compelled to retire
apparently crippled. We lost 1 officer killed, 4 men wounded, and 1
gun disabled. Another monitor seen near Thunderbolt Battery, on
Vernou Eiver ; fired once and retired.
G. T. BEAUEEGAED,
General, Commanding.
General S. COOPER,
Adjutant and Inspector- General.
GENERAL ORDERS, ) HDQRS. DEPT. OF S. 0., GA., AND FLA.,
No. 23. J Charleston, S. C., February 6, 1863.
The commanding general announces to the forces with satisfaction
and pride the results of the recent encounter of our battery at Genesis
Point, Ga., with an iron-clad of the monitor class; results only alloyed
by the life-blood of the gallant commander, the late Maj. John B.
Gallic.
For hours the most formidable vessel of her class hurled missiles of
the heaviest caliber ever used in modern warfare at the weak parapet
of the battery, which was almost demolished ; but, standing at their
guns, as became men fighting for homes, for honor, and for independ
ence, the garrison replied with such effect as to cripple and beat back
their adversary, clad though in impenetrable armor and armed with 15
and 11-inch guns, supported by mortar boats whose practice was of
uncommon precision.
The thanks of the country are due to this intrepid garrison, who have
thus shown what brave men may withstand and accomplish, despite
apparent odds.
"Fort McAllister" will be inscribed on the flags of all the troops en
gaged in the defense of the battery.
By command of General Beauregard :
THOMAS JOED AN,
Chief of Staff.
No. 2.
Report of Maj. Henry Bryan, Assistant Inspector- General, C. S. Army.
SAVANNAH, February 1, 18G3.
General THOMAS JORDAN, Chief of Staff:
GENERAL: I visited Genesis Point this morning just after the fight,
too late to get a view of the iron-clad, which came much nearer — per
haps within GOO yards, but more likely about 700. She was afraid of
our fire, however, and fell back some distance.
I inclose rough sketches of this steamer as she appeared to three
parties and two rough plans of the position of enemy's fleet during
engagement.
The iron-clad seems to have fired principally 15-inch shell, one of
b went directly through the parapet (17 feet thick) in front of a
32-pojroder on the left. At this point tbe parapet was mostly built of
marsh mud, which I infer cannot offer sufficient resistance to these mis-
CHAP. XXV1.U ATTACK ON FORT M7ALLISTER. 213
silos. Two shells seem to have struck near the same point on the par
apet (made of sand) in front of the columbiad and tore away about a
third of it, covering several men with sand; one or two were dug out.
The resisting power of sand is very great, and after thick iron it makes
probably the protection most desirable. So far as demolishing earth
work goes I am inclined to think the 15-inch shell a partial failure. I
think a concentrated fire of smaller guns would have been more de
structive to us. Had they burst better, however, the result might
have been different. Oapt. George W. Anderson, the officer next in
rank to Major Gallie, has proved himself a brave and good young sol
dier, but I think Oapt. Alfred L. Hartridge, Company B, First Georgia
Sharpshooters, who commanded Genesis Point last summer, is the man
best qualified to succeed Major Gallie. I will send you by express a
brass fuse plug from the 15-inch shell.
I am, with regard, your most obedient servant,
HENEY BEYAN.
[Inclosure.]
GENESIS POINT, February 1, 1803 — 1.30 p. m.
Fight lasted five hours, ending 12.45. Major Gallic's brains blown
out, nobody wounded, and 7 injured by concussion. One 32 had trun
nion knocked off; parapet torn up in about five places; in front of
columbiad it was partly demolished. Enemy's iron-clad struck at least
a dozen times, perhaps two dozen, and has gone back out of sight. She
came within 1,000 yards of our battery, probably 700. Col. E. H. An
derson arid garrison have acted nobly.
HENEY BEYAN,
Major and Assistant Inspector -General.
No. 3.
Report of Col. R. H. Anderson, C. 8. Army, commanding forces on tlw
Ogeechee River.
HEADQUARTERS C. S. FORCES, OGEECHEE EIVER,
Fort McAllister, 6a., February 2, 1863.
CAPTAIN: I have the honor very respectfully to submit to the briga
dier-general commanding the following report of the engagement of this
battery with the Abolition fleet, which took place yesterday, tl
11 At^ 45 a, m. the battery was attacked by one iron-clad of the monitor
order, whose armament was one 15-inch and one ll-inch gun, three $
boats (wooden), and one mortar boat. Before the enemy's boat* came
within range I ordered Capt. Arthur Shaatf, commanding the Fust
talion Georgia Sharpshooters, to line the river bank with his riflemen.
His right rested about a quarter of a mile in rear of ami west ott he bat-
tery. As soon as I was satisfied that there wa s no intenti 01 on the a
of the enemy to land at Kilkenny on my right flank and that his i nl
tion was restricted to passing the obstructions, I or dere _d h m to c Up I >
his battalion on his right file at ten paces intervals which e
to cover the bank of the river for over a mile with his <"P*"
who had excellent cover, and would have annoyed the
had he succeeded in passing the obstructions. Martin's
214 COASTS OF s. a, GA , AND MID. AND EAST FLA. rcnAp. xxvi.
held in reserve at Harclwick, which is about 1 J miles in rear of the bat
tery. Captain McAllister's troop I also held in readiness about a mile
in rear of the battery. The two rifle guns of the Chatham Artillery,
under Lieutenant Whitehead, I had placed in pits on a commanding
bluff on the river, about a mile in rear of the battery; the two guns of
the Confederate States steamer Rattlesnake^ under the command of
Captain Baker, I also ordered placed on Richmond Bluff, about 7 miles
in rear of the battery. The steamer Rattlesnake, according to your
direction, was moved at a suitable point in the river and in readiness
to be sunk had necessity required it.
At 7.45 a. m. the bombardment commenced; our battery opened fire
first, but not until the iron-clad had approached and taken a position
north of and within 800 or 1,000 yards of the battery; their wooden
boats lay about 13 miles from and to the east of the fort. The enemy
fired steadily -and with remarkable precision; at times their fire was
terrible. Their mortar firing was unusually fine, a large number of
their shells bursting directly over the battery. The iroii-clad's fire was
principally directed at the 8-inch coluinbiad, and at about 8.15 o'clock
the parapet in front of this gun was so badly breached as to leave the
gun entirely exposed. The detachment did not leave their gun or evince
the slightest fear, but in a most gallant and determined manner fought
their gun to the close of the action, refusing to be relieved. The name
of the brave officer who commanded this gun is First Lieut. W. D.
Dixon, of the Republican Blues, Company C, First Georgia Volunteer
Regiment. At 8.30 a. in. one of the 32-j>ounders was disabled, one of
the trunnions being knocked off. The same shot also killed Maj. John
B. Gallie [Twenty-second Battalion Georgia Artillery], the gallant com
mander of the battery. Prior to this he had been wounded in the face
by a fragment of shell, but refused to be relieved, and continued, not
withstanding his suffering, inspiring the men with his own gallant and
unconquerable spirit up to the time he was killed. Thus perished nobly
a brave, good, and gallant soldier. Capt. G. W. Anderson, jr., upon
Major Gallie's death, succeeded to the command of the battery, and
displayed during the whole action the utmost coolness and gallantry,
as did Captain [Robert] Martin, commanding the 10-inch mortar, Capt.
G. A. Nicoll [Company F, Twenty-second Battalion Georgia Artillery],
and each and every officer of the battery. The whole fire of our battery
^vas concentrated upon the iron-clad, which we struck at least eighteen
times, and I think damaged. At 12.15 p. m. she ceased firing and
dropped down the stream out of reach of our guns. I think she was
damaged, for the reason that just before backing down the stream we
could hear them hammering on the turret, which ceased to revolve ;
neither did she again return our fire, which at this juncture was very
severe.
I have entered into particulars, for the reason that this attack was
one of no ordinary character, as will be readily admitted, when the class
of the enemy's vessels and their superior armament is taken into con
sideration, as well as the close proximity of the iron-clad to the battery.
think that the brave and heroic garrison of Fort McAllister have,
after a most severe and trying fight, demonstrated to the world that
victory does not as a matter of course always perch itself on the flag
of an iron-clad when opposed even to an ordinary earthwork manned
by stout and gallant hearts. In commemoration of this gallant action
I respectfully recommend that the garrison be allowed to have "Fort
McAllister" inscribed on their standard. I beg leave to call the atten
tion of the brigadier- general commanding particularly to my adjutant,
CitAfr. XXVI.] ATTACK ON FORT.MJALLT8TEn. 2 1 /)
First Lieut, Robert Wayne, who iu the most gallant and heroic manner
bore all of my orders in the battery during the whole action. He \\ as
as much, if not more, exposed than any one during the action, and his
conduct won the admiration of all. I would also express my indebted
ness to Captain McAllister, who by his gallantry, energy, ami soldier
like appreciation of what I required of him, did much to facilitate my
arrangements for the defense of the river.
Our total list of casualties are 8— Major Gallic killed, and 7 privates
wounded, none of them severely.
The damage to the work has been already repaired ; all that remains
to be done is to mount another gun in the place of the 32-ponnder dis
abled. This we will do as soon as the one you have ordered to be
brought here from Savannah arrives.
Inclosed you will please find the re port of Capt. G. W. Anderson, jr.,
the immediate commander of the battery, as well as that of Capt.
Robert Martin, commanding the 10-inch mortar.
I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
R. H. ANDERSON,
Colonel, Commanding.
Capt. GEORGE A. MERCER,
Asst. Adjt. Gen., Dist. of Georgia, Savannah.
[Indorsement.]
HDQRS. DEFT. OF SOUTH CAROLINA, GEORGIA, AND FLORIDA,
Charleston, 8. C., February 6, 1863.
Respectfully forwarded for the information of the War Department.
The results related within of the obstinate attack by an iron clad of the
monitor class on our battery at Genesis Point are important and encour
aging. The armament of the battery in question unfortunately was not
heavy, or such as I should have placed at that point had the proper
guns been at my disposition. (See my report of November 1, 1862.) It
consisted of but one 8-inch columbiad, one 4:2 pounder, five 32- pound
ers, and one 10-inch mortar, which has been placed there recently. But,
thanks to the intrepidity of the garrison and supporting force of officers
and men, the battery withstood the formidable attack and the enemy
was beaten back. I beg to commend to the notice of the President the
names of all mentioned in these papers.
G. T. BEAUREGARD,
General, Commanding.
No. 4.
Report of Capt. George W. Anderson, jr., Georgia Artillery, commanding
Fort McAllister.
FORT MCALLISTER, GA., February 2, 1863.
LIEUTENANT : Through you I have the honor of reporting to Col. R.
H. Anderson, commanding forces on Ogeechee River, the result of yes
t erd ay 's e n gf agerneii t :
At'7.45 a. m. the battery was attacked by an iron-clad (wine
choral about 1,000 yards abreast of the battery and immediately oppo
site the chamber of our 8-inch columbaid), three gunboats, and a 111
boat. The enemy fired steadily and with great precision ; at
216 COASTS OF S. C.} GA., A^T^TDTA^D EAST FLA. [CiiAr.
was exceedingly severe. They fired unusually well with their mortar,
a number of shells bursting directly over the battery. The iron-clad's
chief aim was at the columbaid ; she fired 11 and 15 inch shell. The
parapet, in front of the 8-inch was breached and the gun was left almost
entirely exposed. Notwithstanding their critical position not a man
composing the squad evinced the slightest fear, but continued to work
the gun with as much energy and as much composure as could be desired.
It would be invidious to institute a comparison when all alike ex
hibited the utmost gallantry; but I would respectfully beg leave to call
the colonel's attention to the 8-iuch and to the 42-ponuder squads.
The damage to the work can be repaired in forty eight hours. Early
in the day (cS.30 o'clock) the iron-clad disabled one of my 32-pounders,
knocking one of the trunnions off. It was this shot which killed the
heroic Major Gallic. Prior to this he was badly cut in the face, while
standing by the 8-inch gun, inspiring the men with his own indomitable
spirit. He refused to be relieved, saying he would " be able to attend
to duty in a few minutes." Shortly afterward he fell, while discharging
his duties under the most trying circumstances, pierced through the
head.
At 12.30 o'clock the enemy slowly backed out of range of our guns.
The tower of the iron-clad was struck several times. We could hear
them hammering distinctly, evidently mending something which had
been broken by our shot. The turret finally ceased to revolve; whether
designedly or not is left to conjecture. We were unable to reach the
wooden vessels. Our rifle projectiles are miserable. As soon as they
leave the muzzle of the gun they commence to revolve over and over.
The casualties were as follows: *
I am, lieutenant, very respectfully,
GEO. W. ANDEKSON, JR.,
Captain, Commanding Fort Me A Ulster.
Lieut, ROBERT WAYNE,
Acting Aaaifftant Adjutant- General.
No. 5.
Report of Capt. Robert Martin, Georgia Artillery, commanding mortar
and light batteries.
CAMP ARNOLD, February 1, 1863.
LIEUTENANT: Through you I have the honor to make the following
report to Col. K. H. Anderson, commanding forces at and around Genesis
Point:
According to an order from Brigadier-General Mercer, placing me in
command of the 10-inch mortar at Fort McAllister, I promptly repaired
to my post, having first given orders to Lieut. W. G. Kobson, senior
lieutenant present, to move my light battery in supporting distance of
i arrived at my mortar battery a few minutes after 9 a. m.
and immediately opened fire on the Abolition fleet, At 10.40 a. m. my
)latform gave way, and I was compelled to remove the planking and fire
from the second tier of boards, which stood the firing very well.
I have but one casualty to report, i. e., one of my detachment, from a
fragment ol shell in the head, slightly.
* Nominal list shows 1 officer killed and 7 men wounded.
CHAP. XXVI.] DESTRUCTION OF THE NASHVILLE. 217
The firing from the fleet was good. My men were frequently covered
with sand, and shell and fragments of shell frequently fell around us
My practice was at first bad, owing to the mist, but toward midday it
improved, the shells bursting over or falling near the vessels. My men
stood to their work well.
I am, lieutenant, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
B. MARTIN,
Caplain, Commanding Mortar and Light Battery, P. A. C. S.
Lieutenant [ROBERT] WAYNE,
Actg. Asst. Adjt. Gen., Fort McAllister, Ga.
FEBRUARY 28, 1863.— Engagement at Fort McAllister, Ga., and destruc
tion of the Nashville.*
Report of Ca.pt. George W. Anderson, jr., Georgia Artillery, command
ing Fort McAllister.
HEADQUARTERS,
Fort McAllister, Ga., February 28, 1863.
CAPTAIN: Through you I have the honor of reporting to Brigadier-
General Mercer the result of this morning's engagement:
At 7.25 a. in. three gunboats, one mortar-boat, and an iron-clad came
in sight of our battery. The gunboats and mortar-boat took the same
positions as in the former engagements. The iron-clad anchored be
tween 800 and 1,000 yards abreast of our battery and directed her entire
fire at the Rattlesnake, [Nashville,] which was aground about three-
fourths of a mile from her. The wooden vessels directed their tire at the
battery ; did no damage, but slightly injuring the quarters of the Eminett
Rilles and plowing up the dirt in our parade. At 7.40 o'clock the Rat
tlesnake was set on fire — whether by her commander (Captain Baker)
or by the shells of the enemy 1 am unable to say. If by Captain Baker,
I think it was entirely unnecessary, circumstances not demanding her
destruction. The iron-clad was struck by several of our shot; the
wooden vessels were struck once by our 32-pounder rifle.
Officers and men acted with their accustomed bravery and only re
gretted the brevity of the fight.
At 9.30 o'clock the vessels ceased firing and dropped down the river.
The iron-clad apparently passed and repassed with impunity over the
spot where the torpedoes were sunk.
I am, captain, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
GEO. W. ANDERSON, JR.,
Captain, Commanding.
Capt. GEORG-E A. MERCER,
Assistant Adjutant- Genera I.
* The Union forces engaged wore the Montauk, Seneca, Wissahiekon, and Dawn.
See Commander John L. Worden's report in Annual Report of the Secretary o,
Navy, December 7, 18G3.
218 COASTS OF S. C., GA , AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP.
MARCH 3, 1863.— Naval attack on Fort McAllister, Ga.
REPORTS, ETC.*
No. 1.— General G. T. Beauregard, C. S. Army, commanding Department of South
Carolina, Georgia, and Florida, with congratulations.
No. 2.— Maj. D. B. Harris, C. S. Army, Chief Engineer Department of South Carolina,
Georgia, and Florida.
No. 3. — Capt. John McCrady, C. S. Army, Chief Engineer State of Georgia.
No. 1.
Reports of General G. T. Beauregard, C. S. Army, commanding Depart
ment of South Carolina, Georgia, and Florida.
CHARLESTON, S. C., March 3, 1863.
General Mercer reports steamer Nashville destroyed by enemy's
shells, having- stranded half mile above Fort McAllister. Three moni
tors and two mortar-boats attacked fort this morning. After six hours7
firing destroyed one gun-carriage and slightly wounded 2 men. Dam
age to monitors not known. Firing still going on at 3 p. m. One mon
itor and eight wooden vessels lying several miles below fort.
G. T. BEAUREGARD.
General S. COOPER,
Adjutant and Inspector General, Richmond, Va.
CHARLESTON, S. C., March 4, 1863.
Fort McAllister has again repulsed enemy's attack. Iron -clad s re
tired at 8 p. in. yesterday ; mortar-boats shelled until 6 o'clock this
morning. All damages repaired during night; 8-inch columbiads
mounted and fort good as ever. No casualties reported. Result is en
couraging. Enemy's vessels still in sight.
G. T. BEAUREGARD.
General S. COOPER,
Adjutant and Inspector General.
CHARLESTON, S. C., March 4, 18G3.
Brig. Gen. W. H. MERCER, Savannah :
I congratulate again the defenders of Fort McAllister. Hope gal
lant example will be followed by all the other batteries. Clingman's
troops will be sent, but must be ready to support Walker at Pocotaligo
as required.
G. T. BEAUREGARD.
The Ijiiion vessel" engaged were the Nahant, Passaic, and Patapsco. For reports
oi Rear Admiral DqPont, Capt. Percival Drayton, Commanders Daniel Am men and
John Downes, and Lieutenant-Commander J. N. Miller, U. S. Navy, see Annual
Keport of the Secretary of the Navy, December 7, 1863.
CHAP. XXVI.] ATTACK ON FORT M'ALLISTER, GA. 219
No. 2.
Report of Maj. D. B. Harris, C. 8. Army, Chief Engineer Department
of South Carolina, Georgia, and Florida.
SAVANNAH, GA., March 9, 1863.
GENERAL: In compliance with my instructions Captain [John] Mc-
Crady has made a report in detail of 'the engagement ol' the enemy with
the battery at Genesis Point (Fort McAllister), on the 3d instant, which
I have the honor to hand you herewith. This interesting report is
based chiefly upon information furnished by Asst. Engr. J. W. Mc-
Alpin, to whose admirable conduct on this and previous attacks upon
Fort McAllister I respectfully invite the attention of the general com
manding.
I have visited the battery since the engagement, and found it in good
condition in every respect. It would appear that the iron-dads are not
such formidable monsters after all, particularly against sand batteries.
Where crushing effect is desired, as against vessels, and brick or other
walls, the 15-inch shell and solid shot could be used to advantage; but
for the reduction of sand batteries the same amount of metal thrown
from 8 or 10 inch guns in the same time would, I think, have treble the
effect. The firing of the iron-dads was not as accurate as it should have
been under the circumstances. The firing of our battery having been
directed against one of them alone, the others ought to have tired with
all the deliberation and care requisite to insure accuracy. I am there
fore at a loss to account for their wild firing. The most of their shots
passed over the battery. The mortars were fired at a distance of at
least 2J miles without, as usual, any damaging effect upon the battery.
I am fully persuaded the turret of No. 1 (Montauk) was injured during
the engagement. The result of this engagement ought to make us feel
quite comfortable. When the grand affair with which the Abolitionists
have been so long threatening us shall come off (if it ever does), I am
sure our sand batteries will give a good account of themselves. Mr.
McAlpin thinks the iron-dads did not pass over the torpedoes in the
river. I have directed an examination to be made to ascertain if they
are in the position in which they were anchored in the stream.
I have the honor to be, general, yours, very respectfully.
D: B. HARRIS,
Major and Chief Engineer.
Brig. Gen. THOMAS JORDAN, Chief of Staff.
No. 3.
Report of Capt. John McCrady, C. S. Army, Chief Engineer State of
Georgia.
ENGINEER OFFICE, C. S. ARMY,
Savannah, March 8, 1863.
MAJOR: The following report of the engagement with three of the
enemy's monitor fleet, which occurred at Fort McAllister on Hi i>,
March 3, is founded upon the notes and observations of Assistant
Engineer McAlpiu, and the statements of Capt. [G. V\ .J Au< >n,
220 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AKD EAST FLA. [CHAP.
[jr.]> Capt. J. L. McAllister, Lieut. E. A. Elarbec, and Mr. Motte Mid-
Three of the monitor fleet took position off the battery at 8.45 a, in.,
opened lire at 8.54 a. m., and ceased at 4.15 p. ra., the action, so far as
these vessels were concerned, lasting seven hours and twenty four min
utes. Another monitor lay near the bend of the river below Harvey's
Cut, but took no part in the action. She was accompanied by one
river steamer and one ocean steamer, besides two mortar schooners in
plain view, and one which was not seen, but which threw mortar shells,
together with the other two, during the whole engagement. The three
iron-dads were drawn up in line of battle at distances varying from
1,400 to 1,000 yards from the battery. At these distances they ap
peared to be all so nearly of the same model as to render it impossible
to distinguish them by differences of form or proportion. Each carried
a single turret nearly amidships and in front of smoke-stack. They
could only be distinguished from each, other by their differences of
color, which are given in the inclosed table. One of them lay above
the target, the other two below it. Calling that above the target and
nearest the battery No. 1, No. 2 lay about 300 yards below it, and No.
3 about 50 yards below No. 2. Their position was in the channel,
about 200 yards from the marsh, on the opposite side of the river.
Asst. Engr. Postell, stationed at Eosedew, states that one only of the
three carried a flag upon her turret. This was probably the Montauk,
which in previous engagements carried such a flag. The plates on the
hull of No. 1 were distinguishable from the battery, and were thought
by Mr. McAlpin to be from 18 to 24 inches square.
The tables attached to this report will show the differences of color,
armament, &c., of the three iron-clads, as well as the number of shot
fired by each and the number which took effect upon the battery. The
whole number fired was 224, and of these not more than 50 struck any
part of our works. Of the 27 which struck the traverses and superior
slope only 12 shells exploded, and they did no serious damage. The
greatest injury inflicted by a shot was the destruction of the carriage
of the 8-inch gun.
The fire of our battery was concentrated exclusively on Monitor No.
1. No shots whatever were fired at Nos. 2 and 3. The men on No. 3
watched the engagement from the deck of their vessel without fear of
being fired at. Captain Anderson reports that he attempted firing by
battery, but did not succeed for want of a signal which could be heard
in all the gun chambers at once. He reports that the stroke of the
bass-drum was not sufficient for this purpose. The firing of the 10-inch
mortar (Captain Martin) was very accurate, all the shells falling near
No. 1, and one filled with sand striking her deck and breaking to pieces.
The 32-pounder rifled gun with charges of 7 pounds of powder did well,
all the bolts and most of the shells being thrown satisfactorily. The
8-inch gun fired with its usual accuracy until dismounted at 11 o'clock.
The firing of the 42-pounder, always accurate, was only interrupted for
thirty minutes, when the traverse- wheel, being broken by a fragment
f shell, it required that time to replace jt. The gun was, however,
nred several times with the broken wheel, but at last gave way. The
)-mch gun was served with an elevation of GO 30', and generally shot
over the turret; it is thought, however, that several of its shot struck
The 32 pounders were fired 1 suppose for the purpose of
Uividing the enemy's attention. It will be thus seen that the 42-pounder
ana the rifle gun were those which principally maintained the action on
CHAP. XXVI. J ATTACK ON FORT MCALLISTER, GA. 221
our part, the 8-inch gun having been disabled at 11 o'clock and the
10-inch generally overshooting the mark.
The following are the circumstances which have caused a belief that
No. I was injured in the engagement: The last shot tired at her was
from the 42-pouuder. It was reported to have struck near the turret
and low down toward the water line. Immediately after sbe was struck
a volume of smoke or steam issued from her side in a manner not wit
nessed in previous engagements, and which caused a remark that she
was on fire; at the same time 3 men rushed out of her turret, but
shortly returned. She then blew her whistle three times, when No. 2
which had already weighed anchor and started downstream, returned'
and coming up to No. 1 took her position until she had retired. Mean
while both guns of No. 1 were discharged— or discharged themselves—
without aim up the river, one of the shot striking in the middle of the
stream near the obstructions. These circumstances were, in whole or
in part, witnessed by Mr. Motte Middletou, Assistant Engineer McAlpiii,
the officers in the battery, Lieutenant Blarbee in the marsh on the other
side of the river, and the maneuvers of the two vessels were also wit
nessed from Rosedew by Assistant Engineer Postell.- Captain Mc
Allister's pickets at Cottenham report that the enemy were working oil
one of their iron-clads all night after the eagagement.
Lieutenant Elarbee and 4 men of Captain McAllister's company went
over into the marsh opposite the fort the night before on a call for vol
unteers for that purpose. They attained a position from 200 to 250
yards from Monitor No. 1. On the officer stepping out of the turret to
ascertain the effect of his shot one rifle was fired at him, but missed,
upon which he immediately turned to re-enter the turret, but was shot
in the act, stumbling forward, and-at last entering only with difficulty.
No. 1 fired grape or canister at the men in the marsh immediately after
this and once subsequently, but without hurting one of them. Lieu
tenant Elarbee, from his position, had a nearer view of No. 1 than any
one has yet had of one of the monitor fleet. No. 1 is supposed to be
the Mon tank. He reports that her ports are always open ; that her guns
run in and out of battery, and that they are loaded from the muzzle.
He could distinctly hear the words of command, uln battery," &c., and
saw the hands of the men and the staff of the rammer protruded through
the port in loading. He also reports that in No. 1 the muzzle of the gun
when in battery protrudes about 6 inches from the port. He could see
nothing of the same kind in Nos. 2 and 3. He could observe no injury
done by our shot to the turret, the only observable effect being a whitish
streak on the iron. The shot either glanced or were broken to pieces.
One of our shot is reported to have struck about 0 inches from a port.
According to Lieutenant Elarbee's observations, and also Mr. McAlpiu's,
the turret of No. 1 during this engagement turned only one way, the
revolutions being to an outsider uniformly from left to right. Lieu
tenant Elarbee also observed that the motion of revolution was not
even and continuous, but affected by a marked trip at regular intervals.
The turret appeared to be sometimes arrested temporarily in its revolu
tions; whether from design, imperfect machinery, or injury from our
shot could not be ascertained.
The mortar fire of the enemy did no damage to the works during the
day. They resumed firing at C p. in. and continued their bombard
ment until G a. ni. the next day. Only one shell struck any part ot the
works, and that opened a crater of about 4 feet in diameter and 1
deep in the top of the covered way leading from the main work t
mortar battery. To sum up the effect of the seven hours' Don
222 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVI.
on Fort McAllister by three irou-clads, carry log each two guns of the
heaviest caliber, and tliree mortar boats, carrying each one 10 or 15-inch
mortar, I make the following statement of damage:
Earthwork.— $o material damage nor any that could not be repaired
in one night.
Guns.— One gun-carriage shattered; two traverse- wheels broken.
Men. — Two men slightly wounded.
On account of the continued bombardment the negroes could not be
worked during the night, and a working party was detailed for that
purpose from the sharpshooters. With these men and the assistance
of their officers Assistant Engineer McAlpin had all the damage re
paired by morning, the 8-inch columbiad remounted on a spare carriage
sent from Savannah, and the broken traverse- wheel of the 32-pounder
replaced by a new one. The broken traverse- wheel of the 42-pounder
had been replaced during the action by Lieutenant [D.] Quinn, of the
Eminett Kifles [Twenty-second Battalion Georgia Artillery on rolls],
commanding the gun, the spare traverse-wheel having been brought
from the rear of the battery in the midst of the flying shells by one of
the gun detachment, who, being unable to lift it the whole way, rolled
it along the ground by holding the fork.
A fresh supply of ammunition was received from Savannah during the
night, and the following morning the garrison were as well prepared to
renew the fight as they had been to begin it 5 but the enemy did not
come up to time. The battery will be in all respects complete by Tues
day night, should nothing untoward prevent.
I desire to make special mention to the general commanding of the
coolness, courage, and presence of mind of Asst. Engr. J. W. McAlpin,
who, while under fire, sketched the positions of the vessels, and kept,
with the assistance of others, a tally of the shots fired by the enemy,
besides taking notes and collecting the principal facts upon which this
report and the annexed tables are founded.
I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
JOHN McCKADY,
Captain and Chief Engineer State of Georgia.
Maj. D. B. HARRIS,
Chief Engineer Dept. S. C., Ga., and Fla., Charleston, S. C.
[Inclosure No. 1.]
Table showing effect on works at Genesis Point (Fort McAllister) of seven
hours' bombardment by three turreted monitors, on March 3, 1863.
Founded on report of Asst. Engr. J. W. McAlpin.
Mortar battery.— Not struck.
Thirty-tiro-poundcr rife chamber. — One shell in exterior slope, dis
placing about 1 cubic yard of earth. One rifle shell grazed eastern slope
ot right flank traverse between rifle gun and 8-iuch.
Light-inch columbiad chamber. — Two shells exploded in right flank
traverse, doing but little damage. One shot struck gun-carriage right
mil brace, which it shivered, and rendered gun useless. Five shot
entered extension slope of parapet; no serious damage.
±or1y-two pounder gun chamber.— Three shots struck top of traverse
etweeii 8-mch and 4L>-pounder ; one, being a shell, exploded; no seri-
damage was done. Two, if not more, shot or shell (one exploding)
CHAP. XXVI.] ATTACK ON FORT MCALLISTER, GA. 223
struck northwest angle of the same traverse, carrying away earth for
0 feet from front. Traverse in rear struck twice, one shell exploding ;
no serious damage done. One traverse-wheel broken, probably by a
fragment of shell. One man wounded by fragment of shell. One man
wounded by a sod peg. Eight shot entered exterior slope of parapet ;
no serious damage. Two rifle shot struck traverse on left flank ; one
exploded, breaking left traverse-wheel; no serious damage. One 11-
inch shell struck same traverse and exploded ; no serious damage.
Ten-inch gun chamber. — Two shot struck the superior slope in front
of this gun without damage. One of them, a shell, ricochetted and
struck top of traverse in rear, exploding in front of bomb-proof, doing
no- harm. Three shot struck exterior slope of parapet without doing
severe damage.
Thirty-two pounder double chamber. — One shell struck and exploded
in superior slope of parapet, making a bole 2 feet deep and 4- feet in
diameter. A fragment broke right traverse-wheel of 32-pounder on left.
Four shot struck traverse in rear ; two of them (shell) exploded near left
angle, low down, displacing a considerable amount of earth. One shot
struck traverse on left flank. Two shot struck exterior slope of parapet ;
no serious damage done.
Thirty-two-pounder on left flank. — No shot struck. One shot struck
parapet in front of hot- shot furnace.
Bomb-proof. — Three shot struck northern side ; one exploded. Four
shot struck top. No damage done.
JOHN McCKADY,
Captain and Chief Engineer State of Georgia.
[Inclosure No. 2.]
Table showing color, armament, projectiles, &c., of the three turreted mon
itors which attacked Fort McAllister on March 3, 1863. Founded on
observations of Asst. Engr. J. W. McAlpin.
No. 1. — Color: Turret and smoke-stack, black; hull, brown. Arma
ment : One 15-inch gun and one 11-inch gun (smooth-bore). Project
iles : 15-inch hollow shot and shell ; 11-inch shell and solid shot ; 15-inch
shell, with three fuses. Number of shot fired at battery, 90.
No. 2.— Color: Hull and smoke-stack, light colored; top of smoke
stack, red. Armament: One 8-inch rifle and one 11-inch gun (smooth
bore). Projectiles : Cylindro-conoidal percussion shell, 1 7 inches long, 8
inches in diameter at base; 11-inch solid shot and shell. Number oi
shot fired at battery, 70.
]tfo. 3.— Color : Hull, turret, and top of smoke-stack, dark green. Ar-
maneut : Two 8-inch rifles. Projectiles : Cylindro-conoidal percussion
shell, 17 inches long and 8 inches in diameter at base. Number c
fired at battery, 64.
Intervals between successive delivery of fire : Average of ten minutes.
Penetration : 11-inch solid shot penetrated 9 feet 10 inches in sand ;
8-inch rifle shell penetrated 3 feet 6 inches in*L McCEADY
Captain and Chief Engineer State of Georgia.
224 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA [CHAT. XXVI.
MARCH 9, 1863.— Skirmish near Saint Augustine, Fla.
REPORTS.
No. 1.— Col. Haldiuiand S. Putuaui, Seventh New Hampshire Infantry.
No. 2.— Lieut. Col. Joseph C. Abbott, Seventh New Hampshire Infantry.
No. 1.
Report of Col. Haldimand S. Putnam, Seventh New Hampshire Infantry .
HEADQUARTERS,
Saint Augustine, Fla., March 12, 1863.
COLONEL: I have the houor to report that on Monday, the 9th
instant, the advanced picket guard, stationed about 2 miles north of
the town, was attacked. I had reliable information that the enemy con
sisted of a company of about 80 horsemen, commanded by a Captain
Dickison, and that his camp was at a place called Fort Peyton, 7 miles
southwest ol this place. I immediately dispatched Lieutenant Colonel
Abbott, Seventh New Hampshire Volunteers, with 120 men, with orders
to proceed directly to and attack his camp, and in case he had not
returned to it to take the road to the upper ford of the Saint Sebastian,
with the expectation of encountering him as he returned to his camp.
It will be seen by the inclosed sketch that the enemy had to make
a detour of some 13 miles to reach his camp, from which circumstance
I hoped to surprise or intercept him. A mounted vedette gave notice
of our approach, and the advance guard only encountered a small num
ber of the rear guard of the enemy, with whom they kept up a scatter
ing but ineffective fire for about a mile, the enemy retreating rapidly,
and, being mounted, pursuit wras fruitless.
I regret lo report that a sergeant and 4 men, who wrere detached from
the main body to reconnoiter the ground to the right before the situa
tion of the enemy was discovered, were captured. Aside from this
unfortunate occurrence, which is mainly owing to the densely wooded
nature of the country, I believe that Lieutenant-Colonel Abbott and the
officers and men under him displayed good conduct and judgment.
For details I have the honor to refer you to the report of Lieutenant-
Colonel Abbott, which is inclosed.
I am, colonel, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
H. S. PUTNAM,
Colonel Seventh New Hampshire Volunteers, Comdg. Post.
Lieut. Col. CHARLES G. H ALPINE,
Assistant Adjutant- General, Tenth Army Corps.
No. 2.
Report of Lieut. Col. Joseph C. Abbott, Seventh New Hamx)shire Infantry.
SAINT AUGUSTINE, FLA., March 10, 1863.
SIR: In pursuance of your orders, dated the Oth instant, directing
me to proceed with a detachment of 120 men to Fort Peyton and the
place ot Bartols Masters and capture, if possible, a party of the enemy
m that vicinity, and also directing me how to proceed in case the party
CHAP. XXVI.] SKIRMISH NEAR ST. AUGUSTINE, FLA. 225
had left or in case they appeared to be between the Saint Sebastian
and North Rivers, I crossed the Saint Sebastian at the bridge opposite
Saint Augustine at about 1.30 p. m. yesterday with detachments of
Companies B, D, and F, making in all about 120 men, and proceeded
at once along the Palatka road toward Fort Peyton, the road running
in a southwesterly direction up the left bank of the Matanzas Hiver
and from 2 to 3 miles distant from it.
When within about 3 miles of Fort Peyton (Bartols Masters' place) 2
horsemen were seen in the road and were challenged by our advance
guard, but refused to halt and were beyond the range of their rifles.
A little more than a mile north of Fort Peyton I sent a sergeant and 4
men to reconnoiter about a house plainly observable through the pine
woods on the right and apparently not much more than a quarter of a
mile distant, with instructions to report immediately. This house, I
afterward learned, was occupied by a man named Carrero. About half
a mile north of Fort Peyton the advanced guard came upon the enemy's
pickets and fired upon them. Upon hearing the firing I ordered Lieu
tenant Taylor, of Company B, to advance with 10 men as skirmishers,
which was promptly done, while the remainder of the detachment con
tinued to advance. Coming upon a small creek, crossed by a bridge, a
few rods beyond where the firing commenced, the skirmishers crossed
and deployed on the other side. The skirmishers, in the mean time,
were concealed from the main body by a thick growth of trees and
bushes.
Crossing the bridge at double-quick with the main detachment, as
cending a slight elevation and forming in line, I discovered that the
firing was between our skirmishers and those of the enemy a little to
the left and in advance of our front. I then ordered Captain Mason,
of Company B, to advance in the direction of the firing, while I, with
Companies F and D, bore to the right upon Masters' house, thinking
the main body of the enemy either in or around it. Upon halting at
the house we found no one there excepting John Mauncy and Bartols
Masters, with their families, none of whom would give any information
respecting the main body of the enemy, but told me that 2 wagons be
longing to them had leftTon the Palatka road, about half an hour before,
rapidly. The skirmishers of the enemy having now disappeared I
recalled Company B and recrossed the creek, intending to go up the
Saint Sebastian in pursuit of the main body.
In the mean time the men whom I had sent toward Carrero's house
had not reported, and on arriving opposite the house I sent a corporal
and 5 men to ascertain the reason. They returned, bringing with them
Carrero himself, who stated that the first party had been intercepted
by Dickison's (rebel) horsemen, numbering about 80 men, and had been
captured. From his statement it appeared evident that the main body
of the enemy had seen us as we passed toward Fort Peyton, heard the fir
ing, and retreated hastily toward Palatka.
Deeming farther pursuit useless, I returned to a point near the bam
Sebastian bridge, and according to orders reported to you, and pursu
ant to subsequent orders recrossed into the town.
I am, colonel, very respectfully,
JOSEPH C. ABBOTT,
Lieutenant- Colonel Seventh New Hampshire Volunteers.
Col. H. S. PUTNAM,
Seventh Regiment New Hampshire Volunteers.
15 B R— VOL XIV
226 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVL
MARCH 10, 1863.— Eeoccupation of Jacksonville, Fla., by Union forces.
REPORTS.
No. 1.— Brig. Gen. Kufus Saxton, U. S. Army.
No. 2.— Brig. Gon. Joseph Finegau, C. S. Army, commanding District of East Florida.
NO. 1.
Report of Brig. Gen. Rufus Saxton, U. S. Army.
BEAUFORT, S. C., March 14, 1863.
SIR: 1 have the honor to report that the expedition which I sent up
the Saint John's River, Florida, consisting of the First Regiment South
Carolina Volunteers, Col. T. W. Higginson commanding, and a portion
of the Second South Carolina Volunteers, under Colonel Montgomery,
captured and took possession of the town of Jacksonville on Tuesday,
the 10th instant. As I stated in my last report to you, the object of
this expedition was to occupy Jacksonville and make it the base of opera
tions for the arming of negroes and securing in this way possession of
the entire State of Florida. It gives me pleasure to report that so far
the objects of the expedition have been fully accomplished. The town
is completely in our possession and many prisoners. There has been
constant skirmishing going on for several days, and in every action the
negro troops have behaved with the utmost bravery. Never in a single
instance can I learn that they have flinched. It is my belief that
scarcely an incident in this war has caused a greater panic throughout
the whole Southern coast than this raid of the colored troops in Florida.
The negroes are collecting at Jacksonville from all quarters. There
is a great scarcity of muskets in this department. I have endeavored
to procure suitable ones for the troops under my command without suc
cess. If ample supplies of Springfield muskets, smooth-bore, with buck-
and-ball cartridges, could be obtained it would be of the greatest ad
vantage for this peculiar service. I am convinced that the enemy will
attempt to drive us from our position at Jacksonville. He can only
succeed by the failure of our ammunition. I was obliged to send the
expedition with only 50 rounds of ammunition for its artillery, a limited
supply, but I was unwilling to delay the expedition until supplies could
be obtained from the North.
I beg leave respectfully to report that I have great difficulty in ob
taining suitable arms from the ordnance depot in this department.
It would, in my humble opinion, be of great advantage to the service
if an officer could be sent here to report for your information upon its
condition.
I am, sir, with great respect, your obedient servant,
R. SAXTON,
Brigadier-General of Volunteers.
Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War.
No. 2.
Report of Brig. Gen. Joseph Finegan, G. S. Army, commanding District
of East Florida.
HDQRS. PROV. FORCES, DISTRICT EAST FLORIDA,
Camp near Jacksonville, March 14, 1863.
GENERAL : I have the honor to report that on the 10th instant I
CHAP. XXVI.] EEOCCUPATION OF JACKSONVILLE, FLA. 227
received information from Lieutenant-Colonel McCormick, commanding
forces at Camp Finegan, of the arrival at Jacksonville of five gunboats
and transports, and the landing of a large number of Abolition troops
said to be negroes. I immediately issued orders by telegraph and ex
press trains for the concentration of all the troops which I could reach
within the space of four or five days at the camp in the immediate
vicinity of Jacksonville, prepared to check any movement of the enemy
by land into the interior. To do this I am compelled to leave with
entirely inadequate protection many important points on the coast
whence negroes may escape in large numbers to the enemy and where
they have easy access to the interior.
On the same evening I proceeded to the camp, arriving there near
midnight, I here found that the enemy had landed from five gunboats
and transports, and he had occupied the town with so much celerity
and secrecy as to have surrounded it with his pickets before the people
generally were aware of his presence.
The next morning I made a reconnaissance in person, with the cav
alry companies of Captains Stephens and Chambers, of the Second
Florida Cavalry, under command of Lieutenant Colonel McCormick, of
the same regiment, and directed Major Brevard, commanding First Bat
talion Partisan Rangers, with the companies of Captains Mays, Bird, J.
Q. Stewart, and Asa Stewart, numbering 200 men, to advance to the
immediate vicinity of the town, and cut off', capture, or kill their other
pickets. The cavalry detachment under command of Lieutenant-Col
onel McCormick, which I accompanied, advanced into the suburbs of
the town, where we found the enemy posted in strong picket force.
We were fired upon by their first pickets without effect, except the
disabling of 1 or 2 horses, and drove them into the town. Proceeding
farther, we encountered a stronger force, which I estimated to be about
two companies of infantry, drawn up in line of battle and advanta
geously posted. These opened on us unexpectedly, firing alternately
by platoons and by file, with some degree of regularity. Our men, at
great disadvantage of position, returned their fire with effect and drove
them in haste and confusion from their position, killing 2 of whom
we are certainly advised and wounding 4 or 5, and we have some rea
son to believe inflicting on them a severe loss. In this skirmish we
lost a valuable life in Acting Surgeon Meredith, who accompanied the
expedition, and w^as killed in the second skirmish with the enemy. At
this point I had expected to meet the infantry detachment under com
mand of Major Brevard, and with them to have retired from the town,
capturing such pickets as were posted still farther out. The road taken
was shorter than anticipated, and the two skirmishes with the enemy
had accelerated our progress, so that we arrived at the place in advance
of the infantry. Being under the range of the enemy's five gunboats
and of his field pieces, we withdrew, bringing off' the body of Surgeon
Meredith.
Later in the day Major Brevard, commanding the infantry detach
ment, making his way into the suburbs of the town, encountered in the
vicinity of the same place one or two companies of the enemy drawn up
in line' under cover of the tree^s and a house. Feeling the party with
skirmishers, he then opened on them with his entire command, wh
they broke and tied in confusion, having first, however, returned 1
fire*. Major Brevard then withdrew his command, and, although the
enemy opened on them with shell from their gunboats, escaped wit
loss, having inflicted, as we believe, some loss on the enemy,
ascertained from the reconnaissances and other sources ot information
228 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVI.
that the enemy are certainly in large force in Jacksonville; that they
are negroes, with white commissioned officers, company and field, and
generally mulatto non-commissioned officers. From the best informa
tion that we can Bather there may be 4,000 negroes now in the place,
with perhaps one company of white troops. That they are expecting
re-enforcements and have strongly fortified the place, having cut down
all the trees, of which there were a great number, and made of them
barricades and abatis; that they have posted field pieces in all the
streets and covering the approaches, and have burned the houses from
the river out beyond the suburbs of the town, so as to enable them to
sweep with their heavy guns the whole country in rear and on either
side of the place. They keep five boats with guns of long range in front
and on the sides of the town, thus enabling them from the conformation
of the ground to cover the country for several miles. The object of
these formidable preparations, as we gather from our people who have
been allowed to come out and as indicated by the probabilities of the
case, is to hold the town of Jacksonville and then to advance up the
Saint John's in their gunboats and establish another secure position
higher up the river, whence they may entice the slaves. That the en
tire negro population of East Florida will be lost and the country ruined
there cannot be a doubt, unless the means of holding the Saint John's
River are immediately supplied. The next movement of the enemy will
be to Palatka, and it may be to-day or to-»orrowr, and will necessitate
the division of the force here concentrated. In a short time a similar
landing may be effected in the vicinity of Fernandina and another di
vision of the force required. It is impossible to do anything of impor
tance unless I obtain the means asked for. All positions on the river,
with the superior weight and number of the enemy's guns, are untenable
with the means which I possess. I hope the commanding general will
be able to supply me with the means absolutely necessary for the pres
ervation of the people of this district. With the four siege guns asked
for I can drive off the enemy's gunboats preparatory to an attack on the
town.
I am to-day advised that the regiment of white troops in Saint Au
gustine have been ordered to re-enforce the enemy at Jacksonville. It
is more probable, however, that they will proceed to Palatka, which is
an easy march of 30 miles, through an open country, and there estab
lish themselves. With the means at my command I shall not be able
to prevent it.
To appreciate the danger of the permanent establishment of these
posts of negro troops on the Saint John's River I respectfully submit
to the commanding general that a consideration of the topography of
the country will exhibit the fact that the entire planting interest of
East Florida lies within easy communication of the river; that inter
course will immediately commence between negroes on the plantations
and those in the enemy's service; that this intercourse will be conducted
through swamps and under cover of the night, and cannot be pre
vented. A few weeks will suffice to corrupt the entire slave population
of East Florida.
I herewith transmit a copy of an address which I deemed it my
duty to publish to the people of the State, and which I trust will meet
the approval of the commanding general ; also a copy of general orders,
complimentary to the conduct of officers and men of this command
in the two skirmishes of the llth instant.
The whole force which I am able to concentrate at this point, after
leaving exposed many important points, will be less than 1,000 men (of
CHAP. XXVI.] REOCCUPATION OF JACKSONVILLE, FLA. 229
all arms). I further beg leave to urge upon the commanding general
the necessity of supplying me with 300 or 400 Enfield rifles and neces
sary ammunition for new recruits and new companies.
Respectfully, your obedient servant,
JOS. F1NEGAN,
Brigadier- General, Commanding District of Florida.
Brig. Gen. THOMAS JORDAN, Chief of Staff.
[Inclosuro No. 1.]
HEADQUARTERS DISTRICT OF EAST FLORIDA,
. Camp near Jacksonville, Fla., March 13, 1863.
I feel it my duty as brigadier-general commanding this district to
inform the people of the district and of the State that our unscrupulous
enemy has landed a large force of negroes, under command of white
officers, at Jacksonville, under cover of gunboats. He is attempting to
fortify the place so as to make it secure against attacks. The purpose
of this movement is obvious and need not be mentioned in direct terms.
It is sufficient to inspire the whole body of the people with a renewed
and sterner purpose of resistance. I therefore call on such of the citi
zens as can possibly leave their homes to arm and organize themselves
into companies without delay and to report to me. Ammunition, sub
sistence, and transportation will be furnished them while they remain
in service. I further ask the zealous co-operation of the whole people
in forcing into service all persons within the conscript age who yet
remain out. With the blessing of the Almighty, the zealous support of
the people and the Government, I doubt not that the detestable foe
will soon be driven from their cover.
JOS. FINEGAN,
Brigadier- Genera I, Commanding.
[Inclosuro No. 2.]
GENERAL ORDERS, ) HDQRS. DISTRICT OF EAST FLORIDA,
No. — . J Camp near Jacksonville, March 11, 1863.
The brigadier-general commanding desires to notice in general orders
the coolness and daring exhibited by the officers and men of this com
mand of detachments of the companies of Capt. W. E. Chambers and
Capt. Winston Stephens, of Second Florida Cavalry, and of the com
panies of Capts. S. W. Mays, P. B. Bird, J. Q. Stewart, and Asa Stewart,
under the command of Maj. T. W. Brevard, First Battalion Partisan
Kangers, in two separate skirmishes with the enemy in the suburbs of
Jacksonville on this day. These troops advanced with steadfast bravery
while within range of his gunboats and attacked and drove him from
his cover. The brigadier general commanding commends the gallant
and meritorious conduct in this affair of Lieutenant-Colonel McCormick,
Second Florida Cavalry, commanding cavalry force, and Capts. \> . B.
Chambers and W. Stephens, of Second Cavalry, and their officers and
men, and of Maj. T. W. Brevard, First Battalion Partisan lagers,
commanding infantry force, and his captains, S. W. Mays, P. B. Bird,
J. Q. Stewart, and Asa Stewart, and their officers and men.
The command mourns the loss of Surgeon Meredith, who fell by nobly
discharging his duty.
By order of Brigadier- General Finegan, commanding;
\\. GAJjL,
Assistant Adjutant- General
230 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVL
MAECH 20, 1863.— Affair in Saint Andrew's Bay, Fla,
REPORTS, ETC.
No. 1.— Brig. Gen. Howell Cobb, C. S. Army, commanding District of Middle Florida,
including affair in Ocklockonuee Bay, Florida, March 24, 1863, with con
gratulatory letter from General Beauregard.
No. 2.— Maj. W. W. Scott, C. S. Army, First Battalion Florida Infantry.
Report of Brig. Gen. Howell Cobb, C. S. Army, commanding District of
Middle Florida, including affair in Ocklockonnee Bay, Florida,
March 24, 1863, with congratulatory letter from General Beauregard.
HEADQUARTERS DISTRICT OF MIDDLE FLORIDA,
Quincy, Fla., March 28, 1863.
GENERAL: 1 have the honor of inclosing to you reports of two skir
mishes in this district — the one at Saint Andrew's Bay by a portion of
Capt. * - Bobinson-s company ; the other at Ocklockonnee Bay by
a detachment under the command of Captain [G. W.] Scott, of the
Second Florida Cavalry.* The first was a party of foraging Yankees
who had come ashore to steal and plunder; all but 3 of them were
killed.t The second was a Yankee party sent up the Ocklockonnee Bay
to capture a schooner (Onward) which had lately run the blockade. The
Yankees were in possession of the vessel and attempting to carry it out
when discovered. The prompt movements of Captain Scott and his
officers and men enabled them to reach the place before the Yankees
could succeed; and though for the want of the necessary means they could
not recapture the vessel, the Yankees were compelled to abandon and
burn it, with a loss, it is believed, of 10 or 12 men killed. In both cases
the flag of the Abolitionists was captured, and I now have them, sub
ject to the order of the commanding general.
We sustained no loss in either affair.
There has been no serious demonstration on any part of this district,
and I have, in response to the request of Brigadier-General Finegan,
sent forward to his support such re-enforcements as 1 felt might be
temporarily spared from the district. I have also notified him that if
the emergency required it I would still further re-enforce him, and with
that view I keep a portion of my command ready to march at a mo
ment's notice. If required here they can be promptly returned to me.
I am, general, very respectfully, yours,
HOWELL COBB,
Brigadier- General, Commanding District.
General THOMAS JORDAN, Chief of Staff, Charleston, S. C.
HDQRS. DEPT. SOUTH CAROLINA, GEORGIA, AND FLORIDA,
Charleston, S. C., April 3. 1863.
Brig. Gen. H. COBB,
Commanding District of East Florida :
GENERAL: The commanding general instructs me, through you, to
* See p. 236.
t For report of Actg. Master John Sherrill, commanding u. S. bark Roebuck, see
Annual Report of the Secretary of the Navy, December 7, 1863.
CHAP. XXVI.] AFFAIR IN ST. ANDREW^ BAY, FLA. 231
express to Capts. G. W. Scott and Eobinson, and the officers, non
commissioned officers, and men of their respective commands, his high
sense of their soldierly conduct on the occasions reported severally bv
Maj. W. W. Scott and Capt. G. W. Scott. By enterprises such as these,
conducted with coolness and address and characterized by resolute
courage, small detachments of our troops may strike the enemy with
such effect as to prevent them from landing within the limits of your
command.
The flags captured should be sent to these headquarters by some
convenient opportunity. If you deem it proper or convenient you
might by flag of truce communicate to the commander of the United
States forces, to which the Saint Andrew's Bay party belonged, the
statement of Captain Scott, and demand the surrender of the boat and
its arms and equipments, as it stood when surrendered, and the men,
and notify them that unless this is done that hereafter quarter must
be denied under similar circumstances.
I am likewise instructed to say to you that the general is much grati
fied by the prompt manner in which you sent assistance to Brigadier-
General Finegan.
Respectfully, your obedient servant,
THOMAS JORDAN,
Chief of Staff.
No. 2.
Report of Maj. W. W. Scott, C. S. Army, First Battalion Florida Infantry.
HEADQUARTERS,
Marianna, W. Fla., March 22, 1863.
DEAR SIR: I have the honor to report to the commanding general
an affair of Capt. - — Robinson's, on Saint Andrew's Bay. His
report to me is as follows :
I proceeded to the town of Saint Andrew's on the 19th instant with a lieutenant
sergeant, and 20 men. Arriving just before night, I encamped.
Yesterday morning [March 20], about 10.30 o'clock, the enemy came into the bay in
a launch, on which was mounted a brass howitzer (I think a IS-pounder), and lauded
an armed party, consisting of an officer and 9 men, 2 men remaining in the boat.
They formed and marched down the beach, the boat keeping opposite to them. I
formed my men and, taking advantage of a bluff, charged within 75 yards of them
before we were discovered. Being the stronger party 1 ordered them to surrender,
which they refused to do, but attempted to get on their boat. I ordered my men to
fire, which brought down 4 or 5. We charged into the water after them about waist-
deep, which brought us within their musket-range from the boat, and our fire was so
hot they could not board her, but swam out into the bay. Several attempted to get
on board, but were killed. The men on the boat tried to fire their cannon, but wera
so badly wounded that they were not able to do so. They finally lowered their flag
and asked for quarter. I 'immediately ordered my men to cease firing. They th«-n
asked permission to pick up their men, who were wounded and drowning, which was
granted. They got 2 on board ; the balance had sunk ; and being then nearly out of
range, they hoisted sail and escaped with boat. We had no boat to board them and
the water was too deep to wade. There were but 3 men in the boat able to sit up, and
1 of them was shot from his seat as they went oft'. One escaped to the woods and we
were unable to capture him, though there is a party still after him. I do not think a
single man escaped unhurt, as wo could see from the blood that the 2 that remained
iu the boat were seriously wounded. We got their tlag, 4 Mttrie muskets, 3 cartridge
boxes, 3 bayonets; also 1 pair of oars. I should have taken the boat but for tl
begging quarter.
232 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVI.
I have received the flag captured by Captain Robinson, and will for
ward to the commanding general if he directs me.
I am. captain, your obedient servant, &c.,
W. W. SCOTT,
Major 'j Commanding.
Capt. JAMES BARROW,
Assistant Adjutant- General.
MARCH 22, 1863.— Destruction of steamer Georgiana, off Charleston, S. C.
Report of Capt. Charles T. Haskell,jr., G. 8. Army, commanding at Bat
tery Marshall.
BATTERY MARSHALL, S. C., March 23, 1863.
SIR : I have the honor to report that between 5 and 6 p. m. yesterday
the enemy sent launches to the steamer Georgiana. Shortly after they
left her an explosion took place on her decks, carrying away her masts
and rigging. I opened fire upon two of his vessels from which the
launches were going to and fro at a distance of from 3£ to 4 miles.
They, however, keeping in motion, I failed to strike them. I fired four
shot and shell.
I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
CHAELES T. HASKELL, JR.,
Captain, Commanding.
Capt. WILLIAM GREENE,
Assistant Adjutant- General.
MARCH 23-31, 1863— Operations near Jacksonville, Fla.
REPORTS.
No. 1.— Col. John D. Rust, Eighth Maine Infantry.
No. 2.— Brig. Gen. Joseph Finegan, C. S. Array.
No. 1.
Report of Col. John D. Rust, Eighth Maine Infantry.
HILTON HEAD, S. C., April 2, 1863.
COLONEL : I have the honor to make the following report for the in
formation of the major-general commanding Department of the South:
In accordance with orders received I embarked my regiment on board
the steamers Delaware and General Meigs, at Beaufort, March 13, for
Jacksonville, Fla,, where I arrived on the 23d ultimo, having been
layed by rough weather. Major Hemingway, with three companies
on the General Meigs, had already arrived. When I reached there a
I battery mounted on a platform car propelled by a locomotive was
shelling the town. The gunboat Norwich, which accompanied me, en-
it, replying vigorously, as did also a rifled Parrott 32-pounder
shore. The enemy were soon driven back. He was, as I afterward
CHAP. XXVI.] OPERATIONS NEAR JACKSONVILLE, FLA. 233
learned, making a reconnaissance, which it was his plan to follow up by
an attack in force after night-fall. He expected to make the attack so
close as to render our gunboats unavailable from the danger of their
shells falling among our own men. Everything remained quiet during
the night. The fact that our pickets had previously been drawn in at
night to the edge of town encouraged this plan, which was frustrated
by the arrival of the Eighth Maine Regiment and placing a night picket
afterward at a distance. On Tuesday night the locomotive battery
again approached and threw several 68-pounder rifled shells, striking
several buildings, but injuring no one.
On Wednesday a reconnaissance in force, commanded by Colonel Hig-
ginsou, and consisting of five companies of the Eighth Maine, under
Lieutenant-Colonel Twitchell; four companies of Sixth Connecticut, un
der Major Meeker, and a portion of Colonel Higginson's colored regiment
advanced along the railroad upward of 4 miles, driving in General Fin-
egan's pickets, but were not able to overtake the enemy.
After proceeding as far as was deemed advisable, and the enemy
showing no disposition to accept battle, our forces commenced to return.
Soon after the locomotive battery appeared and threw several shells,
but was careful to keep out of reach of our rifles. One of its shells
killed privates T. G. Hoole and Joseph Goodwin and severely wounded
William Willis, all of Captain McArthur's company (I), Eighth Maine
Volunteers, who were the only persons killed or wounded after my arri
val. On this occasion alt the troops behaved exceedingly well.
Colonel Montgomery, with about 120 men of his regiment, accompanied
by Captain Steedman, of the gunboat Paul Jones, made a successful ex
pedition to Palatka, 75 miles up the river, taking prisoners a lieutenant
and 14 men. with all their arms. The lieutenant violated his parole of
honor and escaped. A quantity of cotton, rifles, horses, and other prop
erty, amounting to several thousand dollars, has been captured.
In accordance with Special Orders, No. 162, received from Headquar
ters Department of the South, 1 withdrew all the Union forces from
Jacksonville, Fla., March 31, and embarked them on board transports,
a part of which had just arrived for that purpose.
While the evacuation was taking place several fires were lit, a por
tion of them undoubtedly by secessionists; these fires were not con
fined to the lines of any regiment. Perhaps twenty-five buildings were
destroyed. On my arrival I had found that many buildings had pre
viously been destroyed, some by rebels, others by Union forces from
military necessity.
Many Union families came away with us, our soldiers -freely makin
all possible room for them on the transports.
The expedition has all returned safely. .
Much credit is due to Capt, H. Boynton, of Eighth Kegiment Maine
Volunteers, for the careful and prudent manner m which he had
ministered the atfairs of provost-marshal during our brief stay at Ja
b°Captain Cannon, of the Delaware, and his gentlemanly officers deserve
mention for their kind treatment of officers an™i D KIJST
Colonel Eighth Regiment Maine Vols., Commanding Forces.
Lieut. Col. CHARLES G. HALPINE,
Assistant Adjutant- General, Department of the boutn.
234 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVL
Ko. 2.
Report of Brig. Gen. Joseph Finegan, C. S. Army.
HEADQUARTERS DISTRICT OF EAST FLORIDA,
Lake City, Fla,, March 31, 1863.
GENERAL : I have the honor to report that on the night of the 24th
instant I directed Lieutenant [T. E.] Buckman, chief of ordnance, to
proceed with the rifled 32-ponnder furnished me by Brigadier-General
[H.] Cobb, mouute'd on a platform car on the railroad, and a sufficient
infantry support for the gun, to within range of the town, and open on
it with shot and shell. In obedience to this order Lieutenant Buckman
proceeded to within 1£ miles of the town and opened on it with effect,
throwing shell with great accuracy into those parts of the town where the
enemy were located. The gun was admirably served, and great credit
is due to Lieutenant Buckman and to Private Francis Soul6, of Captain
[Edwin] West's company, First Special Battalion Florida Volunteers,
comiiuinding gun detachment, for its effective service. The firing of the
enemy from a large number of heavy guns on their gunboats and some
in battery soon became concentrated and accurate, and the gun, in pur
suance of orders, was withdrawn after inflicting some damage on the
enemy and without loss on our side.
On the succeeding morning the enemy advanced in force, about 1,500
strong, in three columns, driving in pickets with skirmishers, and formed
in line of battle about 3 miles from town. My entire force was imme
diately ordered with all possible expedition to proceed to the ground
where they were drawn up and engage them. The rifled 32-pounder,
under command of Lieutenant Buckman, with a strong support of in
fantry and cavalry on left flank, protected on the right by the main body
of our troops, was sent down on the railroad, and opened on the enemy
as soon as they came within range, -gradually approaching them until
within full view of a considerable force protected by a 12-pounder Pa-r-
rott gun, and engaged in destroying a culvert over which it was necessary
for our gun to pass in order to shell the town. Lieutenant Buckman
opened on them with effect, throwing shell with great accuracy and dis
persing the party.
In the mean time a section of Captain [R. H.I Gamble's battery of
Florida artillery was ordered some little distance in advance of our main
body, and under command of Captain Gamble and Lieutenant [F. L.]
Villepigue opened on the enemy a cross-fire in the direction where they
were supposed to be lying concealed in some force. The enemy had in
this fight, in addition to the Parrott gun on the railroad car, a small
hand piece, with which he opened in the direction of the firing from Cap
tain Gamble's section. He did not await the advance of the main body
of our troops, but retired precipitately soon after the32-pounder gun had
opened on him. I continued to throw shell into their column for some
distance on their retreat, and found evidence of considerable loss on their
part— a number of guns, caps, haversacks, canteens, and fragments of
human bodies and portions of skulls were found on the several roads
occupied by their columns.
The conduct and services on this occasion of Lieut. T. E. Buckman,
chief of ordnance, and of Private Francis Soule, of Captain West's
company (First Special Battalion), commanding gun detachment of
32-pounder rifled gun, is again entitled to special commendation.
The enemy having retired, 1 sent forward a strong body of infantry,
under command of Major [T. W.] Brevard, First Partisan Rangers,
CHAP. XXVI.J OPERATIONS NEAR JACKSONVILLE, FLA. 235
with orders to hold them in reserve under cover from the enemy's
guns, and to send forward a body of skirmishers to approach cautiously
and ascertain the position of the enemy in the immediate vicinity of the
town and endeavor to draw them out in force. The order was executed
by Major Brevard with promptness, gallantry, and discretion. The
skirmishers, under command of Major Brevard in person, advanced to
within a short distance of the town. Finding the enemy's pickets drawn
into their outer battery (a strong position on the brow of a hill), a ravine
in front, and a strong force well posted for its defense and under good
cover on either flank, and having no further object to gain, I ordered
Major Brevard's command to retire, and replacing and strengthening
my pickets, returned with the main body of my force to camp, having
inflicted on the enemy, as I have reason to believe, a probable loss of
10 or 15 men, without any casualties to my own troops.
The conduct and spirit of both officers and men of the entire command
were excellent, and I desire to mention favorably to the commanding
general Col. Duncan L. Clinch, Fourth Georgia Cavalry; Lieutenant-
Colonel [A. H.] McCormick, Second Florida Cavalry ; Major [R. B.]
Thomas, inspector-general and acting chief of artillery; Maj. T. W.
[John] Westcott, [Samuel W.] Mays, P. B. Bird, and J. Q. Stewart, of
Brevard's battalion of Partisan Rangers, and Lieut. — - Tucker, com
manding company from camp of instruction, and his officers and men.
On the succeeding day (the 26th instant) I placed early in the morn
ing a strong force of infantry, with a battery of artillery, under Major
Brevard, First Battalion Partisan Rangers, under cover some woods
to the right of where the enemy were posted on the 25th instant,
with the design of getting in their rear should they again venture
out. During the day information reached me that they were out in
force, and I again marched to meet them, with the intention of cut
ting them off, but they retired before we got near them. On the night
of the 26th [instant] they were out in some force attempting to destroy
the railroad track about 1 mile from town. Lieutenant Buckman was
again ordered with the rifled 32-pouuder and an infantry support to
drive them in. This he accomplished with a few rounds. On each suc
ceeding day I posted a large body of infantry under cover for the pur
pose of cutting off any force that might come out; but the enemy kept
closely within their lines in the suburbs of the town and under the im
mediate fire of their gunboats and batteries.
On Sunday, the 29th instant, while recounoitering the town from a
position on the river, I discovered it was on tire in several places and
that the transports were being loaded with troops. I immediately con
jectured that, the enemy were leaving, and pressed on into the town,
arriving just after the departure of the last gunboat. I found the town
in great part consumed, but succeeded in extinguishing the tire in some
valuable buildings. There were evidences of precipitate departure by
the enemy, and some quartermaster's stores were left by them, which
were taken and turned over to the proper officers.
I regret to report that on the night of the 27th instant Lieutenant |
F.] Braddock, of Captain [John] Westcott's company Partisan Rangers,
who had obtained, through the solicitation of his officers, permission to
proceed to the east bank of the Saint John's River to bring across the
wives and children of men in the service who were there destitute and
exposed to the outrages of the negro troops of the enemy, after having
236 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVL
crossed the river, some 12 miles above my camp, and met the wagons
sent by his captain to convey the women and children, was captured,
with 15 men, 2 wagons, and 8 mules, by a force of the enemy under
Col. Montgomery. The mules were recovered by a force which
I sent in pursuit, but the wagons were burned by the enemy and the
women and children carried otf. I have ordered the arrest of this offi
cer (who subsequently escaped from his captors), and will ask for his
trial by court-martial whenever the proper witnesses can be produced.
The fortifications erected by the enemy around Jacksonville were for
midable.
I desire to bring to the notice of the commanding general in the high
est terms of praise the conduct and services of both officers and men of
the command iu the recent operations, and herewith transmit a copy of
General Orders, No. 12, issued by me, to which I beg to refer the com
manding general for special mention of instances of individual merit. I
will, however, here mention as pre-eminently entitled to consideration
the services and conduct of Lieut. T. E. Buckman, chief of ordnance
on my staff, a most accomplished, brave, ingenious, and energetic offi
cer, and Privates Francis Soule', of Captain West's company, First
Special Battalion, and James Chestnut, of Captain Chambers7 company,
Second Florida Cavalry; also Capts. W. E. Chambers and Winston
Stephens of the Second Florida Cavalry, and their officers and men.
I have ascertained that the enemy's force in Jacksonville was as fol
lows: Eighth Maine, 1,100 strong; Sixth Connecticut, 800 strong
(whites); First South Carolina Volunteers (black troops), commanded
by Col. T. W. Eigginson, a full regiment, estimated from 900 to 1,500;
Second South Carolina Volunteers (blacks), Colonel Montgomery com
manding, not full.
I have the honor to be, general, very respectfully, your obedient serv
ant,
JOS. FINEGAN,
Brigadier- General, Commanding.
Brig. Gen. THOMAS JORDAN,
Chief of Staff, Charleston, S. C.
MARCH 24, 1863.— Affair in Ocklockonnee Bay, Fla.
Report of Capt. 0. W. Scott, C. 8. Army, Second Florida Cavalry*
NEWPORT, FLA., March 24, 1863.
COLONEL: Having received your order of 23d instant to assist Lieu
tenant [H. K.] Simmons, at Roberts' Ferry, at 2.30 a. m. of the 24th
instant, I have the honor to report that within an hour after the receipt
the order to report I left my camp at Newport with a detachment of
'men of my company for the point designated, having previously
ordered a like force from Company I, Second Florida Cavalry, to accom
pany me.
At 8 a. m., having accomplished a distance of 30 miles in four and a
hours, I reached with my command a point on the Ocklockonnee
»ay, where the schooner Onward, a prize in the hands of the enemy,
trae aground. Having joined forces with Lieutenant Simmons, com-
u- s- Navy> 8ee Annual Report of
GHAP. XXVI.] SKIRMISH AT PALATKA, FLA. 237
manding a detachment of Captain [W. H.] Milton's company (G), Second
Florida Cavalry, who had been watching the movements of the enemy
during the night, I determined on an immediate attack, and disposed
my troops accordingly. A reconnaissance having been eifected by
Lieutenant Simmons, and the men having been dismounted, I advanced
the command at a double-quick through the open "woods to the beach
and opened on the enemy with Maynard rifles at a distance of about 300
yards. The enemy replied with shell and grape from a howitzer they
had mounted on the prize and with musketry. After a spirited engage
ment, which was maintained for an hour and ten minutes, the enemy
abandoned the prize and succeeded in making their escape in small
boats, having previously fired the schooner to prevent its falling into
our possession.
The loss of the enemy in this engagement it is not possible to deter
mine accurately. When the action commenced from 24 to 28 men were
counted on the deck of the schooner, and at its termination not more
than from 9 to 12 were seen to escape in the boats. Many were seen to
fall while the action was in progress. Oa our side not a man was hurt.
The enemy fled precipitately, leaving behind their flag, which, through
Sergeant Strickland, of Company G, Second Florida Cavalry (whose
gallantry in rescuing it from the burning vessel I would desire in an
especial manner to commend), fell into our possession.
I cannot too highly extol the coolness and bravery displayed by the
troops under my command on this occasion. Without exception they
behaved with the greatest gallantry, evincing the utmost composure in
the face of danger.
To Lieutenant Simmons, of Company G, Second Florida Cavalry, I
am indebted for valuable assistance, and take pleasure in referring to
the gallantry displayed by him throughout the engagement.
The detachment of 30 men from Company I, Second Florida Cavalry,
under command of Lieutenant [J.] Tucker, I regret to state, did not
arrive at the scene of action until 10.30 p. m. of the same day, at least
an hour after the engagement had terminated.
All of which is respectfully submitted.
G. W. SCOTT,
Captain, Commanding.
MARCH 27, 1863.— Skirmish at Palatka, Fla.
Report of Capt. J. J. Dicldson, G. S. Army, commanding post, and con
gratulatory orders.
CAMP LEO, Palatlca, E. Fla., March 27, 1863.
CAPTAIN: I have the honor to report to you a signal victory over the
enemy, which occurred at this place about 7 a. m., as they were making
an attempt to laud their forces.
On the day before my pickets reported a boat coming up the river,
immediately marched to town as infantry, leaving my horses
and took a position previously selected by me, placing one detachmer
of 30 men, under Lieutenant [W. H.] McCardell, within 50 yards of the
river to cover one of the positions which [where] it was supposed the
enemy might make an effort to land; the other, under command
Lieutenant [W. J.] McEaddy. of 10 men, to cover one of
238 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVL
streets in town. My com maud consisted of 50 men, and I occupied a
position within about 100 yards of Teasdale & Bied's upper wharf.
Scarcely had we our positions when the boat hove in sight and anchored
about 1£ miles off, opposite Mr. Baza's, on the east bank of the river,
then about 4 p. m. , I discovered that there was constant communica
tion between the gunboat and the opposite side of the river by means
of small boats, but at the time could not discover the causes, &c. At
iii-lit I covered all the landings above and below the town with my
pickets, with instructions that they would report to me at daybreak
without fail, as I was under the impression that the enemy would make
an effort to laud early in the morning. We held our positions firmly
during the uight, but were not disturbed. About daylight I discovered
that the enemy again communicated with the opposite side of the river
(at Mr. Baza's). A short time after sunrise they moved up slowly and
landed at Teasdale & Eied's Wharf. Having nothing to cover my men
from their view but a plank fence and an intrenchment thrown up
during the night, I ordered all to lie close and keep concealed, at the
same time occupying a position myself so as to watch every movement
of the enemy. No sooner had the boat struck the wharf than they sent
a man ashore, evidently as a spy, as he was familiar with the place,
being afterwards informed by some of my men that he was Bill Roe,
well known as the engineer of the steamer Saint Mary's. As soon as
he returned to the boat they commenced landing their forces. So soon
as I saw 30 or 40 men on the wharf, and at the same time the upper
and lower deck of the boat crowded as thick as they could stand, I
ordered my men to fire, which order was executed in as cool and delib
erate a manner and in as good order as any men could do. The enemy
immediately retreated to their boat in great confusion, dragging their
dead and wounded after them, and *as [in] falling back returned our
fire both by small-arms as well as heavy and light artillery, throwing
shell, grape, and canister-shot, moving as rapidly as their steam could
carry them under cover of their heavy fire, &c.
They fell back opposite Mr. Baza's and ordered their land forces to
fall back, which had been marched up from Orange Mill the evening
previous (70 or 80 negroes, with white officers). This transport had
on board three or four pieces of light artillery mounted as usual for
such guns. I cannot be mistaken in this, as my position gave me the
best opportunity to observe them closely. We suppose the forces on
board from 600 to 700, under command of the notorious Montgomery.
He acknowledged to the Hon. T. T. llussell that his whole regiment
was on board, except the 70 or 80 negroes landed on the east bank of
the river. My candid opinion is that we must have killed and wounded
not less than from 20 to 30. Among the wounded, we are informed,
was the illustrious colonel himself. This was acknowledged to several
parties on the river; but among the strongest proofs of some accident
befalling their leading officer is that they drew off from the wharf in
great haste as soon as they could take in their dead and wounded under
cover of their heavy artillery. Among the trophies on the Wharf was
a considerable quantity of blood in several places and also many frag
ments of bone, pronounced by the surgeon of the post here pieces of
cranium.
I cannot speak in too high terms of my men for their cool and deliber
ate action under heavy fire of the enemy. This transport was supposed
to be the Ben De Ford, the largest ever up the river; and it was thought
by good judges that she would carry at least 1,000 troops. The position
>1 my two detachments was suck that they were unable to fire, in conse-
CHAP. XXVI.] SKIRMISH AT PALATKA, FLA. 239
quence of the large warehouse concealing the enemy from them. They
held their position as ordered, to be ready to attack him if he had ad
vanced into the town as we expected. Every order was obeyed and car
ried out to my satisfaction. Had he advanced, as we expected, we should
no doubt have had a close and desperate engagement; but the vandals,
satisfied with their warm reception, thought best to retire as quick as
possible. They proceeded down to Orange Mill and took on board their
land forces, several negroes, horses, and plunder, of which they had rob bed
the good citizens on that side of the river. They committed great dep
redations in their raid from Orange Mill up to Mr. Sanchez', taking
everything they could lay their hands upon — negroes, horses, and pro
visions of all kinds. They were guilty even of breaking open the trunks
of helpless women, stealing and destroying the contents. Hon. T. T.
Russell informs me that in conversation with Montgomery he said that
he would the next day occupy Palatka and in a few days have 4,000 or
5,000 troops at that p]ace, and as he had his own provost-marshal, he
wanted all the citizens on that side of the river to report at their earliest
convenience.
Excuse my lengthy report, as I deem it my duty to give you all the
details and real acts of such demons. My little command is again ready
for them, and will contest every inch of ground if he should attempt an
other landing. I had 1 man slightly wounded in the thigh by a frag
ment of shell. Thank God, none killed. All in fine spirits.
J. J. DICKISON,
Captain, Commanding Company H and Post.
Capt. W. CALL,
Headquarters, Camp Finegan, East Florida.
[Indorsement.}
HEADQUARTERS DISTRICT OF EAST FLORIDA,
Lake City, Fla., April 11, 1863.
Respectfully forwarded for the information of the commanding gen
eral. I have ascertained that Lieutenant-Colonel [Liberty] Billiugs, of
the First South Carolina (negro) Regiment, was wounded in four places
in the attempt of the enemy to land at Palatka.
JOS. FINEGAN,
Brigadier- General.
SPECIAL ORDERS, t HDQRS. DISTRICT OF EAST
No. 244. I La*e Ctt9i APnl ll> l
The brigadier-general commanding has much pleasure in commending
in the highest degree the gallantry and bravery of Capt J. J. U
Company H, Second Florida Cavalry, his officers and men, in to*«™
tory over the enemy, on the 27th March, at Palatka, The enemy tend*
in large force, and were doubtless sure of an easy victory atsou
a point, but they were met by Captain Dickispn ami iw gal a ut me n
with a coolness and daring deserving the emulation of all sold
attacked the. enemy with their small-arms, and in
aace . «
view of the formidable batteries of their gunboat, and drove
board in the greatest confusion, killing and wounding inanj, a
ommanding a.so notices with the highest ap-
240 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVL
probation the vigilance and good services of this company ever since its
entrance upon the active duties of the service. Being stationed at an
isolated point, at a long distance from support, they have performed
their duty well and faithfully, and have rendered as useful service to
the country, and particularly to the civil interests of the district, as any
other troops in the world of the same number could have done, and they
deserve in the highest degree the thanks not only of the commanding
general but of the whole district.
Bv order of Brigadier-General Finegan:
K. B. THOMAS,
Major and Acting Assistant Adjutant- General.
APEIL 7, 1863. — Engagement in Charleston Harbor, S. C.
No. 1. — General G. T. Beauregard, C. S. Army, commanding Department of South
Carolina, Georgia, and Florida.
No. 2.— Maj. D. B. Harris, C. S. Engineers, Chief Engineer.
No. 3.— Maj. William H. Echols, C. S. Engineers.
No. 4. — Brig. Gen. Roswell S. Ripley, C. S. Army, commanding First Military District.
No. 5. — Col. Alfred Rhett, First South Carolina Artillery, commanding Fort Sumter.
No. 6.— Lieut. E. Prioleau Raveue"!, First South Carolina Artillery.
No. 7.— Brig. Gen. J. H. Trapier, C. S. Army, commanding on Sullivan's Island.
No. 8. — Col. Lawrence M. Keitt, Twentieth South Carolina Infantry.
No. 9. — Col. William Butler, First South Carolina Infantry, commanding Fort
Moultrie.
No. 10. — Lieut. Col. J. C. Simkins, First South Carolina Infantry, commanding Bat
tery Bee.
No. 11. — Capt. J. A. Sitgreaves, First South Carolina Artillery, commanding Battery
Beauregard.
No. 12.— Lieut. Col. A. T. Dargan, Twenty-first South Carolina Infantry.
No. 13.— Maj. C. K. Huger, South Carolina Artillery, commanding artillery on Morris
Island.
No. 14. — Col. A. D. Frederick, Second South Carolina Artillery, commanding Fort
Johnson, James Island.
No. 15. — Lieut. W. T. Glassell, C. S. Navy, commanding C. S. steamer Chicora.
N/>. 16. — Thanks of the South Carolina Legislature.
No. 17.— Capt. Henry S. Tafft, U. S. Signal Corps, Chief Signal Officer Department
of the South.
No. 1.
Reports of General G. T. Beauregard, C. S. Army, commanding Depart
ment of South Carolina, Georgia, and Florida.
HDQRS. DEPT. SOUTH CAROLINA, GEORGIA, AND FLORIDA,
Charleston, S. C., May 19, 1863.
GENERAL: I have the honor to transmit with this the report of
Brigadier-General Kipley, commanding the First Military District
* The reports of the U. S. naval commanders are published with the Annual Report
of the Secretary of the Navy, dated December 7, 1863. See also Hunter to Lincoln.
May 22, 1863, in "Correspondence, etc.," post.
CHAP. XXVI.] ENGAGEMENT IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, 8. C. 241
South Carolina, of the battle of the 7th ultimo, together with the reports
of his subordinate officers, and of Majs. D. B. Harris and W. II. Eckols
Provisional Engineer Corps.
The accumulation of the enemy's troops, transports, and iron-clad
vessels at Port Koyal during the months of February and March and
subsequently in the North Edisto and Stono Eivers, Laving convinced
me that the long-threatened attack on Charleston was immediately im
pending, every possible precaution was at once made for the exigency,
including the concentration at strategic points in this vicinity of all
available troops for tbe defense of the several laud approaches to the
position, and provisions for the further and rapid concentration upon
this point of forces from other of the military subdivisions of the de
partment.
On the 5th of the month the enemy's iron-clads of the monitor class
appeared and anchored off the bar, which they crossed on the follow
ing day, accompanied by the iron-mailed frigate New Ironsides, bearing
the admiral's pennant.
On the 7th of April, in the afternoon, the enemy moved forward to
the attack in single file, seven single-turreted monitors, to wit: Wee-
hawken, Catskill, Montauk, Nautucket, Passaic, Nahant, and Patapsco;
the Keokuk, with two fixed turrets, and the New Ironsides, the Wee-
hawkeu leading and the New Ironsides fifth in the order of battle. By
3 o'clock p. in. the head of the line had come within easy range of Forts
Sumter and Moultrie, and Batteries Beauregard, Bee, Cummiugs Point,
and Wagner; a few minutes later the first gun was fired from Fort
Moultrie, and soon the engagement became general. On our side
seventy-six guns of various calibers, including nine mortars and fifteen
smooth-bore 32-pounders, were brought to bear on the fleet, which car
ried thirty -two guns of the heaviest calibers ever used in war, to wit,
15 and 11-inch Dahlgren guns and 8 inch rifled pieces.
The Weehawken, in advance, provided with a contrivance for catch
ing and exploding torpedoes, was soon compelled to retire before the
iron storm it encountered. The New Ironsides, at the distance of 1,700
yards from Fort Sumter, was frequently struck, and was next forced to
fall back out of range, evidently injured.
The Keokuk, having mean time approached to about 000 yards of Fort
Sumter, was quickly riddled, her guns silenced, and she was withdrawn
from the fight vitally crippled.
The remaining monitors, six in number, with twelve guns, maintained
their tire until 5.25 p. m., when they too retired out of range of our bat
teries and came to anchor, four of them liors fie combat and one of them
(the Passaic) so disabled as to make it necessary to send her under tow
at once to Port Koyal. On the following morning the full extent of
the injury done to the Keokuk was shown, as she sunk at her anchors
in the shallow water off Morris Island. Her armament, two 11-inch
Dahlgren guns, two U. S. flags, two pennants, and three signal flags
have since been taken from her, and the former are now in position tor
effective service— substantial trophies of the affair. The New Ironsides
and six monitors remained at anchor within the bar, but out of effective
range of any of our works, until the afternoon of the 12th of April,
their crews and a corps of mechanics visibly and actively employed i
pairing damages and apparently preparing to renew the attack ; t
weighing anchor, they all recrossed the bar, the New Ironsides to resume
her position as one of the blockading fleet and the monitors (tour ot
them in tow) to return to Port Royal. For the details ot
1(3 n R— YOL xiy
242 COASTS OF S. C ., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA [CHAP. XXVL
beg to refer to the several reports herewith submitted ; but it may not
be amiss to recapitulate some of the salient results.
The action lasted two hours and twenty-five minutes, but the chief
damage is reported by the enemy to have been done in thirty minutes.
The Keokuk did not come nearer than 900 yards of Fort Sumter ; she
was destroyed. The New Ironsides could not stand the fire at the range
of a mile; four of her consorts (monitors) were disabled at the distance
of not less than 1,300 yards. They had only reached the gorge of the
harbor— never within it- and were baffled and driven back before reach
ing our lines of torpedoes and obstructions, which had been constructed
as an ultimate defensive resort as far as they could be provided. The
heaviest batteries had not been employed. Therefore it may be accepted,
as shown, that these vaunted monitor batteries, though formidable en
gines of war, after all are not invulnerable nor' invincible, and may be
destroyed or defeated by heavy ordnance properly placed and skill
fully handled. In reality they have not materially altered the military
relations of forts and ships. On this occasion the monitors operated
under the most favorable circumstances. The day was calm, and the
water consequently was as stable as of a river ; their guns were fired
with deliberation, doubtless by trained artillerists. According to the
enemy's statements the fleet fired 151 shots; 8 of which are ascribed to
the New Ironsides, 3 to the .Keokuk, and but 9 to the Passaic, which
was so badly damaged. Not more than 34 shots took effect on the walls
of Fort Su inter — abroad mark — which, with the number of discharges,
suggests that the monitor arrangement as yet is not convenient for accu
racy or celerity of fire. Fort Moultrie and our other batteries were not
touched in a way to be considered, while in return they threw 1,399 shots.
At the same time Fort Sumter discharged 810 shots, making the total
number of shots fired 2,209, of which the enemy report that 520 struck
the different vessels; a most satisfactory accuracy when the smallness of
the target is considered. This precision was due not only to the discipline
and practice of the garrisons engaged, but in no slight degree to an in
vention of Lieut. Col. Joseph A. Yates, First Regiment South Carolina
Artillery, which had been applied to many of our best guns, and which
shall as fast as possible be arranged for all the heavy ordnance in the de
partment. By this felicitous device our guns were easily held trained
upon the monitors, although the latter were constantly in movement, and
this with but 5 men at the heaviest pieces.
The reports of the engineers herewith will show the precise extent of
the damage inflicted on Fort Sumter. It is sufficient for me to say that
at the time the enemy quit these waters the work was capable of resist
ing as formidable an attack as the one it had just foiled.
For the casualties of the day, so slight, I must refer you to the reports
herewith. Too much praise cannot be given to the officers and men in
all the works engaged for their spirit, gallantry, and discipline, which
indeed I had a right to expect from the high soldierly condition into
which these garrisons had been brought by their officers. My expecta
tions were fully realized, and the country as well as the State of South
barolma may well be proud of the men who first met and vanquished
the iron-mailed, terribly armed Armada, so confidently prepared and sent
lorth by the enemy to certain and easy victory.
To the professional resources, skill as an artillery officer, intelligent
and indefatigable zeal and assiduity of Brigadier-General Ripley, com
manding the First iMilitary District, and especially charged with the de
nse ot the harbor, much is due for the completeness of the defenses
and the proud results of the 7th of April. He was ably seconded by his
CHAP. XXVI.] ENGAGEMENT IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, 8. C. 243
subordinate commanders, whose services he has fitly noticed in his own
report.
To Col. A. J. Gonzales, chief of ordnance and artillery, and Maj. D.
B. Harris, chief engineer, and Maj. W. H. Echols, Provisional Engineer
Corps, and their several assistants I return my thanks for valuable serv
ices in their respective departments.
I have also to record my obligations to the Hon. William Porcher
Miles, Representative in Congress, for constantly exerted services in
securing for the defense of Charleston so many of the heaviest guns
wielded so effectually.
The Confederate States iron-clad ships Palmetto State and Chicora,
under the command of Capt. J. E. Tucker, 0. S. Navy, as soon as the
enemy advanced to the attack, took their positions, previously arranged,
ready to perform their part in the conflict at the opportune moment.
On the day after the combat Flag-Officer Lynch, 0. S. Navy, arrived
here from North Carolina with an effective detachment of sailor artil
lerists to tender service in any battery. He was assigned to a most
responsible position — Cummings Point Battery — but was in three days
thereafter recalled by the Navy Department.
The flags and trophies sent herewith were taken from the wreck of
the Keokuk by Lieut. W. T. Glassell, 0. S. Navy. The more material
trophies, two 11-inch Dahlgren pieces, now in battery, were recovered
under the supervision of General Eipley by the mechanical resources
and energy of Mr. Adolphus LaCoste, employ^ of the district ordnance
department, assisted by parties from the garrison of Fort Sumter, under
command of Lieut. S. Cordes Boyleston, and Lieuts. J. M. Ehett and K.
Kemper, First Eegiment South Carolina Artillery.
The enemy's land forces, collected in considerable strength on Sea-
brook Island, and in transports in North Edisto Eiver and on Folly,
Cole's, and other islands about the mouth of the Stono Eiver, made no
attempt to co-operate actually with the naval attack.
In conclusion, I shall avail myself of the occasion to give as my opin
ion that the best, the easiest, way to render Fort Sumter impregnable
would be to arm, conformably to its original plan, both tiers of case
mates and the barbette, with the heaviest guns, rifled or smooth-bore,
that can be made.
Bespectfully, your obedient servant,^ BEAUEB(JAED)
General, Commanding.
General S. COOPER,
Adjutant and Inspector General
[Inologur*.]
[Copied from United States Jonr»»lB.J
Bounds.
Q
New Ironsides fired - •• * *" 05
Catskill fired 3
Keokuk fired • 26
Montatik fired 15
Nantucket fired ' 9
Passaic fired """ 24
Naliant fired 26
Weeliawken fired 18
Patapsco fired ""
154
244 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVI.
Now Ironsides received of shots 65
Krokuk received of shots 90
AYtM'lui \vken received of shots 60
Mmi tank received of shots 20
1'as-aic i ••reived of shots 58
Nant m-k«'t received of shots 51
(at skill received of shots 51
Patapsco received of shots 45
Nahant received of shots 80
520
THOMAS JORDAN,
Chief of Staff.
HDQRS. DEFT. SOUTH CAROLINA, GEORGIA, AND FLORIDA,
Charleston, S. C., October 15, 1863.
Geueral S. COOPER,
Adjutant and Inspector General C. S. Army :
GENERAL: In a published circular (No. 39) of the. State Department
at Washington, signed by Mr. William H. Seward, and addressed to
the diplomatic agents of the Government abroad, I notice a statement
relative to the defeat of the enemy's iron-clad fleet in the attack on
Fort Sumter on the 7th April last so contrary to the actual facts of
the case that I feel called upon, as commander of this military depart
ment, most emphatically to deny the truth of that version, which is as
follows :
An attack hy the fleet, on the 7th of April last, upon the forts and batteries which
defend the harbor of Charleston failed because the rope obstructions in the channel
fouled the screws of the iron-clads and compelled them to return after passing through
the lire of the batteries. These vessels bore the fire of the forts, although some de
fects of construction were revealed by the injuries they received. The crews passed
through an unexampled cannonade with singular impunity. Not a life was lost on
board a monitor.
From the inclosed reports* of Brig'. Gen. R. S. Ripley, Col. William
Butler, and Col. Alfred Rhett, who commanded at that period respect
ively in this military district the batteries on Sullivan's Island and
Fort Sumter, it will be seen that —
1st. No iron-clads came nearer than about 600 yards of the rope ob
structions, except the disabled Keokuk, which drifted in to about 300
yards before it could be again got under way but in a sinking condi
tion, consequently the propellers of the iron clads never could have
become entangled in the rope obstructions.
2d. The irou-clads never passed through the fire of the batteries, for
they never approached nearer than from 1,100 to 1,300 yards of the
outer batteries, except the Keokuk, which came up to about 900 yards
and was sunk. None of the iron-clads came within range of the heaviest
batteries in Fort Sumter and on Sullivan's Island, which they would
have been compelled to do on entering the harbor.
3d. The fleet did not escape without material injury, for one of the
number, the Keokuk, was sunk, and its armament is now in position
for defense of Charleston on our own batteries. Another monitor had
to be sent to New York for extensive repairs, and several others were
sent to Port Royal also for repairs.
4th. Not a life may have been lost on the iron-clads, but on examina
tion of the wreck of the Keokuk its hull was found penetrated, and the
-inch round shots and 7-inch rifled bolts had made clean holes through
CHAP. XXVI.] ENGAGEMENT IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C. 245
its turrets. Several United States flags, 3 officers7 swords, pistols &c.
a quantity of bloody clothes and blankets were found on board.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
G. T. BEAUKEGARD,
General, Commanding.
No. 2.
Report of Maj. D. B. Harris, G. S. Engineers, Chief Engineer.
OFFICE OF CHIEF ENGINEER,
Charleston, S. C., April 28, 1803.
GENERAL : In compliance with instructions Major Echols has made
a report in detail of the engagement on the 7th instant of the enemy's
iron-clad fleet with the forts and batteries commanding the outer harbor
of this city, which 1 have the honor to hand you herewith.
This report is based upon information derived from the commanding
officers of the forts and batteries engaged in the fight and upon an ex,
animation in company with myself of those works on the 8th and 9th
instant.
The fire of the enemy was directed chiefly against Fort Sumter at a
distance of from 900 to 1,500 yards. The injuries to the fort, of which
the tables and drawings accompanying Major Echols' report give an
accurate description, were not of a character to impair its efficiency.
The crushing effect of the enemy's heavy missiles was less than I had
anticipated. The chief damage was probably caused by the explosion
of shells against and in the walls of the fort.
The manner in which the fort withstood the bombardment is a mat
ter of congratulation, and encourages us to believe that the repairs that
have been made and the measures now in progress to strengthen and
protect its walls will enable the fort to withstand a much more formida
ble bombardment 'with like good results.
Of the other works engaged, none of which attracted much of the
enemy's attention, only one (Fort Moultrie) received any damage, and
that was very trivial.
Fort Moultrie, Battery Wagner, and Cummiugs Point Battery fired
upon the fleet at a distance of from 1,200 to 1,500 yards; Batteries Bee
and Beauregard, at a distance of from 1,600 to 2,000 yards— too far, in
the case of the latter-named batteries, for useful effect against iron
clads.
Our batteries were admirably served by our skilled artillerists. Much
of the rapidity and accuracy with which our heavy guns were fired was
due to the use of Colonel Yates' traverser, with the merits of which the
general commanding has been fully impressed.
Our batteries discharged about 2,200 shot of all sorts ; the enemy's
fleet about 110, chiefly 15-inch shell and 11-inch solid shot; not less than
80 of which were directed at Fort Sumter.
The sinking of the Keokuk and the discomfiture of other iron-clads
has established their vulnerability to our heavy projectiles at a range,
say, of from 900 to 1,200 yards.
It appeared on an examination of the wreck of the Keokuk, on
IGth instant, by Lieutenant Boyleston, confirmed in the main by my
own observations on the 19th instant, that her turrets within 4.} feet ot
their tops had been pierced by four 10-inch shot and one 7-mch rifle
246 COASTS OF S. C., GA , AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CiiAi-. XXVL
shot and a wrought-iron Brooke bolt had penetrated seven-eighths of its
length and stuck in the plating. Several severe indentations were also
observed, near which the plates were warped and the bolts broken or
started. The top of the smoke-stack of sheet-iron was very much torn,
and the bottom of it — of similar structure to the turrets — pierced by a
10 inch shot. The vessel having sunk in 13 feet of water prevented an
examination of the lower portions of her turrets or of her hull, which no
doubt were served in like manner. From this it would appear that the
10-inch shot are just as effective at the distance, say, of 900 yards, as the
7 inch Brooke bolts against such structures as the turrets of the Keokuk.
The result of this engagement is highly gratifying, and increases our
confidence in our ability, with good batteries of suitable guns, to con
tend successfully with vessels of the monitor class. The enemy's evi
dent and just dread of torpedoes, as evinced in his preparation for their
explosion by the "devil" or torpedo-searcher, should induce us to mul
tiply our defenses of that character in whatsoever manner they can be
made available.
I have the honor to be; yours, very respectfully,
D. B. HAKRIS,
Major and Chief of Engineers.
Brig. Gen. THOMAS JORDAN, Chief of Staff.
No. 3.
Report of Maj. William H. Echols, C. 8. Engineers.
CONFEDERATE STATES ENGINEERS' OFFICE,
Charleston, 8. 0., April 9, 1863.
MAJOR: I have the honor to make the following report of the engage
ment between Fort Sumter and the enemy's iron-clad fleet on the 7th
April, 1863, at 3 o'clock p. m., lasting two hours and twenty-five minutes.
The incidents which transpired during the engagement are based upon
information received from the officers in charge of the works, but more
particularly from the observations of Colonel Ehett, commanding Fort
Sumter, and Lieut. S. C. Boyleston, adjutant First Regiment South Caro
lina Artillery, who made special observations during the whole action ;
the remainder from personal inspection afterward.
Forts Sumter, Moultrie, Batteries Bee, Beauregard, Cnmmings Point,
and Wagner were engaged. The fleet consisted of the Ironsides, sup
posed armament sixteen guns ; the Keokuk, two stationary turrets, car
rying one gun each, and seven single revolving turreted vessels, carry
ing, supposed, two guns in each, presumed to be the Montauk, Passaic,
Weehawken, Patapsco, Nahant, Catskill, and Nantucket, which took
position from 900 to 1,500 yards from Fort Sumter.
They steamed up main Ship Channel toward Fort Moultrie in line of
battle as follows : Four single turrets, Ironsides, three single turrets,
and Keokuk, following one after the other at intervals of about 300 yards,
the foremost one moving slowly, and carrying on her prow the "devil,"
or torpedo-searcher, a description and drawing of which are appended.
When within 2,200 yards Fort Moultrie fired the first gun upon her near
buoy No. 3, then distant about 1,500 yards from Fort Sumter, which had
previously trained her battery of barbette guns upon the buoy, and
opened fire by battery when she reached that position, at three minutes
past 3 o'clock.
CHAP. XXVI.] ENGAGEMENT IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C. 247
The first turret opened fire at five minutes past 3, and moved back
ward, thus developing their maneuver of attack. At this moment the
engagement became general. The second turret passed the first, fired,
moved backward ; the first moved forward, passed the second, fired,
and backed, then retired from action; the other turrets maneuvering in
the same relative manner, each time nearing or receding a little from
the fort in order not to present a permanent target.
The Ironsides, when at 1,700 yards from Moultrie and 2,000 yards
from Suinter, stopped, discharged a battery at the former, when Sum-
ter concentrated a heavy fire upon her. Numbers of shot were seen to
strike her and several to penetrate, three at least, in her wooden stern.
Deeming 2,000 yards too close quarters she retired out of range, sup
posed injured, in favor of less prominent and more formidable imps,
after an engagement of forty five minutes. The Keokuk, at five min
utes past 4, defiantly turning her prow directly toward Sumter, firing
from her forward turret gun, the batteries of Sumter, Moultrie, Bee, and
Cummings Point were concentrated upon her, her turrets receiving
numbers of well-directed shots, several apparently penetrating, showed
evidence of considerable damage. When within 900 yards she was
struck, supposed by a wrought-iron bolt, 117 pounds, from a 7-inch
Brooke rifle en barbette, near her bow, penetrating and ripping up a
plating about 6 feet long and 2J wide, which ended her career. She
stopped, seemed disabled for a few minutes, then turned to the channel,
and proceeded toward the bar at forty-five" minutes to 4. She sank off
the south end of Morris Island at half-past 8 o'clock the following morn
ing. Her smoke-stack and turrets are now visible at low water. From
her wreck floated ashore a book, a spy-glass, and pieces of furniture,
bespattered with blood, and small fragments of iron sticking in them.
The firing of the turrets was timed. They discharged generally at in
tervals of ten minutes. The engagement lasted two hours and twenty-
five minutes. Allowing six of them constantly engaged, they delivered
87 shots ; one fired twice and retired ; the Keokuk fired three or four
•times and the Ironsides about 17, making the total number fired by the
enemy about 1 10, which were principally directed at Sumter. Her walls
show the effect of 55 missiles — shot, shell, and fragments. The carriage
of a 10-inch columbiad on western face was completely demolished by a
shot coming over the parapet ; a 42-pounder rifle on northeast face dis
mounted by breaking a traverse- wheel; both soon remounted in position ;
four small holes knocked in the roof of the eastern quarters by grazing
shots; an 8-inch columbiad burst on the eastern face, throwing the
chassis and half the reinforce over the parapet, the other half over the
quarters in the parade, demolished the carriage, but did no other dam
age ; nearly all the window-panes and some of the sashes in the tort
were broken by concussion.
The accompanying table of effects of shot and sketches of the eleva
tions of the faces show the points of impact, the kind of projectile used,
so far as could be ascertained by inspection and found ; they were prin
cipally 15-inch shells and 11-inch shot, The nature of the material
against which they were projected crumbling generally without retain
ing an impressionVecludes any positive information as to their exaci
kind or caliber ; only a few were evident. To the best of my judgment,
according to the effect, eight 15-inch shells struck the faces ; two ot
these penetrated the wall of the eastern face just below the embrasures
in the second tier next to the east pan coupe, not seriously damaging
the masonry, one exploding in the casemate set fire to so me bedd m£ ,
the other passed through a window and burst in the center of the
248 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST 1<<LA. [CHAP. XXVl.
Several exploded in contact with the wall, by which the principal craters
appear to have been formed. One passed over the parapet into the
quarters on the western side, exploded, damaging several walls. Five
1 1 inch shot struck the faces; one, penetrating near one of the same em
brasures pierced by the 15 inch shell, broke through and stuck into the
interior wall of the quarters. Only one impression represented any
appearance of a rifle projectile. One 15-inch solid shot, one 15-inch
hollow shot, several 15 inch shells and 11-inch shot were found in and
around the fort. Fragments .of 15-inch shells were picked up on the
outside. The berme being very narrow and sloping prevented any
means of ascertaining by the bodies themselves their kind, all being
precipitated into the water after striking. It is reported also that
several shrapnel were fired over the barbette guns of Surnter. Some of
the shells which exploded in contact with the wall may probably have
been percussion rifle shells, as some of the turrets are known to carry
8-iuch rifles, but no fragments were found, nor do any of the officers re
port indications of rifle projectiles by. sound or otherwise, with but one
exception. The commanding officer of Battery Wagner reports one by
sound to have passed over, fired by the Ironsides. Nine shots were tired
at Moultrie at distances — of turrets, 1,300 yards ; of Ironsides, 1,700
yards. An 11-inch shot struck down the flag-staff at thirty-seven min
utes past 3, passed through the roof of the quarters, penetrated the
wall of the ordnance store house, about 2 feet thick, and dropped in
the room; another struck tlie glacis and ricochetted over the fort ; a
third, a 15-inch shell, burst at the water's edge, a fragment of which
was found ; the others passed over. Five shots were fired at Battery
Bee, without effect, at a distance of about 2,000 yards ; one fell behind
the breakwater; another passed along the front of the battery and
burst; the others passed over. Six or seven were fired at Battery
Beauregard, at a distance of 2.000 yards, without effect; two 11-inch
shot were found. Two were fired at Oummings Point without effect;
one at 1,200 or 1,300 yards, from Ironsides; the other at 1,400 to 1,500
yards, from a turret. Four were fired at Battery Wagner ; one from.
Ironsides sounded like a rifle shot passing through the air; one grazed
top of traverse; another exploded over the battery, sending a fragment
intOHi traverse.
A single turret, which fired her two guns simultaneously, ceased to
fire one of them at about 4 o'clock, half of the port being closed the re
mainder of the action ; cause not visible. They were frequently struck
upon their decks, and several shot were seen sticking in the hull of one
of them, and from another steam issued when struck upon it. A cast-
iron bolt, rifle 42, struck a leveled plate or guard around the base of a
turret, which curved and turned one end up.
The projectiles generally broke in pieces, as could be seen by frag
ments falling in the water, or bounded from the vessel. One, after
striking, was observed to drop and rest at the foot of the turret. Sev
eral of the smoke-stacks were penetrated.
A lookout appeared on top of one of the turrets, apparently observing
the effect of the shot; at the flash of a battery from Moultrie he in
stantly disappeared.
The casualties are slight. At Sumter 5 men were wounded by frag
ments of masonry and wood. One of the negroes engaged at work at
the fort, who was sitting on the berme of the western face, was
wounded by a brick knocked from the parapet and falling upon his
head.
CHAI>. XXVI.] ENGAGEMENT IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C. 249
At Moultrie 1 man was killed by the falling of the flag-staff when
shot away.
At Battery Wagner an.ammunition chest in the angle of the parapet
and traverse in the chamber of the 32-pounder exploded from the blast
of the gun, killing 3 men, mortally wounding 1, slightly wounding Lieu
tenant Steedman, in charge of the gun, and 3 men ; blew them about 20
feet, cracked the traverses, threw the shot from the pile of balls in
every direction, and slightly damaged the chassis.
I arrived at Fort Sumter about 2 o'clock at night after the engage
ment, and found Mr. E. J. White, of the Engineer Department, busily
engaged building in the casemates, first and second tiers, behind the
damaged walls, with sand bags; several of them were completed and
considerably strengthened. This work was continued all night and the
next day by the garrison and the 50 negroes who had been employed
at the fort and remained during the engagement. On the following
morning the fleet lay inside the bar in the same line of battle in which
they approached, the first one about 2J miles from Sumter and li miles
from Morris Island. Men were visible all day on the turret of one ham
mering, evidently repairing her plating. Wind-sails were set, indicat
ing that their quarters, even at this season of the year, were uncomfort
able and badly ventilated. About noon one of the turrets went south,
probably to Port Eoyal for repairs, or for the security of that place
against our iron-dads from Savannah.
The Ironsides has kept up a full head of steam since the engagement,
as can be seen by her constantly blowing off. Three holes are distinctly
seen in her stern ; two just above the water line.
The "devil" floated ashore on Morris Island; the cables by which it
was attached to the turret's bow were cut away. It is probable that
the "devil," becoming unmanageable, was the cause of the turret retiring
early from the action, it being a massive structure, consisting of two
layers of white pine timbers 18 inches square, strongly bolted together;
a re-entering angle 20 feet deep to receive the bow of the vessel, 50
feet long, 27 feet wide ; a layer of beveled timbers on the front, forming
a bow; seven, heavy iron plates, through which passed chains directly
down and over the sides through hawser-pipes ; to these were attached
grappling irons, with double prongs, suspended underneath, at the
sides and bow ; in the countersinks of the plates were loose iron rollers,
apparently to facilitate the drawing of the chains through the holes
over them when the grapplings took hold, to drag up to the "devil"
whatever he may catch with his hooks.
The colors of the six turrets remaining on the 8th are as follows :
First turret, lead color; stack, lead color; top of stack, red with
black ring.
Second turret and stack, black.
Third turret, black ; stack, white ; top, green.
Fourth turret, black; stack, black; top stack, one- third lead color.
Fifth turret and stack, lead color.
Sixth turret and stack, black.
The hull of the turret in running trim stands about 2 feet above water
level, carrying a whistle, stove-pipe, and stanchions for swinging a
small boat'on deck, with a light railing around it. When cleared for
action she is submerged almost to the water level ; the other articles
all removed flush with the deck ; the issue of steam from the
eral
pipe,
sides.
times observed, if not from injury, is probably from the blow-off
, taken down flush, as she cannot carry it, as other vessels, on her
250 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVI
I accompany the report with a sketch of the battle ground, showing
the relative positions of the forts and fleet ; one of the faces of the fort,
showing parts damaged; one of the Keokuk,* one of a turret sub
merged for action,* and one of the "devil."
Very respectfully, your most obedient servant,
WILLIAM H. ECHOLS,
Major, Engineers.
Maj. D. B. HARRIS,
Chief Engineer Department.
* Not found.
CHAP. XXVI.1 ENGAGEMENT IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C. 251
[TnelosuTv Xo. 1.]
PLAN of the approach and attack on Fort Sumter by the
Federal Iron- Clad Fleet, April 7, 1863.
252 COASTS OF S. f'., CA., AND Mil). AND EAST FLA.
[Inclosure Ko. 2.]
CHAF. XXVI.] ENGAGEMENT IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C.
[Inclosuro Xo. 3.]
253
•J.Y1 - COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVI.
fliu'losuro Xo. 4.]
SKETCH of the Devil, or Torpedo Searcher, carried by a
Monitor in Charleston Harbor, April 7, 1863.
WM. H. ECHOLS,
Maj. of Engineers.
Side View.
y*
CHAP. XXVI.] ENGAGEMENT IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, 8. C. 255
[In closure No. 5.]
Table of effects of projectiles on walls of Fort Sumtcr.
[The numbers correspond with those on drawing of elevations, showing the locations of points of
impact.]
No.
Projectile.
Penetration.
Crater.
Remarks.
Height.
Width.
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13?
$
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
32
33
34
35
36
37
38
39
40
41
42
43
44
45
Feet.
Inches.
2
6
3
9
Feet.
Inches.
Feet.
Inches.
Scaled.
Scaled.
Embrasure A ; exterior con
crete keystone and interior
embrasure arch knocked out;
masonry cracked.
Assisted No. 3 ; spent.
Penetrated concrete and new
masonry facing.
Ricochet and spent.
Scaled.
Apparently rifle shot ; no seri
ous injury.
One 15-inch ; other two not
known ; parapet wall cracked
25 leet in length ; serious
damage, perhaps by explod
ing shell.
Interior arch of embrasure B
dislocated ; masonry between
piers and embrasure badly
shaken and projecting.
Scaled.
Shook masonry.
Scaled.
Interior embrasure C ; arch
broken ; masonry cracked.
Perhaps exploding shell.
Scaled ; spent ball.
Masonry shaken.
Exploding shell on pier; not
much internal injury.
No serious injury.
Masonry around embrasure D
badly cracked and projecting
inside.
Penetrated, striking head of
arch and thrown upward,
tearing away a quantity of
masonry, not seriously dam
aging body of masonry ; ex
ploded in casemate.
Same effect as 22; destroyed
embrasure E.
Not seriously damaging body
of masonry.
Same effect as 22; destroyed
embrasure F; exploded in
parade.
Scaled ; ricochet and spent.
No serious damage.
No serious damage.
Serious damage; wall not much
cracked.
Scaled.
Knocked off 1 foot of angle.
Knocked off 6 inches of angle.
Oblique fire; scaled.
Scaled.
Shook masonry.
Broke and projected in sole of
embrasure G.
Very oblique fire ; no damage.
Very oblique fire ; no damage.
Very oblique fire ; no damage.
VerV oblique fire; no damage.
Exploding hhell.
Oblique; scaled.
No serious injury.
Scaled.
2
4
3
1
4
4
1
15-inch
11-iiich
1
15-inch
33
1
2
2
3 shots
2
2
6
3
10
6
8
4
15-inch
Fragment of shell. . .
15-inch
1
6
3
3
1
2
6
2
15
6
3
3
3
3
15-inch
1
3
1
1
3
5
3
4
4
3
5
6
6
3
3
3
11 inch
5
2
5
2
3
4
2
3
4
6
6
6
15-inch
11 inch
1
2
4
2
3
2
4
5
5
15-inch
11-inch
1
6
5
3
2
3
6
4
2
Fragment of shell. . .
1
1
6
3
10
4
2
2
3
2
2
4
2
3
1
2
6
2
4
3
Fragment of shell. . .
2
4
4
1
2
1
10
2
......
3
1
2
6
1
Fragment of shell. . .
L>f)(; COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXYI.
Table of effects of projectiles on icalls of Fort Sumter — Continued.
No.
Projectile.
Penetration.
Crater.
Remarks.
Height.
Width.
46
47
48
49
50
51
52
53
54
55
Feet.
Inches.
Feet.
Inches.
Feet.
Inches.
Scaled ; very oblique.
Exploding shell ; cracked para
pet wall.
Knocked out iron embrasure
slab 1 foot wide, 6 inches
thick, 3 feet long ; indented
it li inches and broke it in
three pieces; shook masonry.
No serious injury.
Brick traverse ; east pan coupe.
Entered western quarters and
exploded, damaging walls.
Entered western quarters and
remained in quarters.
Demolished 10-inch columbiad
carriage and chassis in south
west angle.
Struck end stone masonry
berme southeast angle ; four
small holes kuockea in brick
arch roof of eastern quarters
by grazing shots or frag
ments from traverse.
11 inch
2
4
5
5
1
2
5
6
3
5
3
7
6
11 inch
1 O-inch
11-inch
WILLIAM H. ECHOLS,
Major , Engineers.
[Inolosure No. 6.]
Table showing the number, Icind, and position of guns in action, and number and kind of
projectiles used ayaimt the iron-clad fleet before Charleston, April 7, 1863.
Location.
No.
Kind of gun.
Projectile.
Shots.
2
7-inch Brooke rifles
86
4
10-inch columbiads
Solid shot
120
4
8-iiich columbiads
Solid shot
160
f>
42-pounder rifles
Shot and bolts
138
2
Shot
54
.
3
10-inch sea-coast mortars. .
8-inch shell guns (navv) . .
Shells filled with melted iron. .
Shot
40
60
First tier casemate. ... <
2
8-inch guns (navy)
Shot
50
J
8
32-pounders
Shot
100
Second tier casemate
1
42-pounder rifle
Shot
2
9
5
8-inch columbiads
3'J-pounder rifles
Shot and 5 incendiary shells. . .
192 bolts • 38 shells
344
230
5
32-pounders
Shot
243
1
10-inch sea-coast mortars . .
Shells
51
5
10-inch colnmbiads
Shot
225
1
8-inch columbiad
Shot
58
"R f* TJ
8-iuch Columbia ds . *.
Shot
64
1
82-pounder rifle
7 shells
93
1
10-inch colnmbiad
Shot
37
1
9-iuch Dahlgren
Shells
28
s
i 1
32-pounder rifle
Shells
g
Battery Wagner, 26 shots. .. <
! 1
24-pounder rifle
Shells
1
(
I 2
32-pounders
Shot
16
Number of guns, 69 ; total Dumber of shots fired, 2,209.
WILLIAM H. ECHOLS,
Major , Engineers.
CHAP. XXVI.] ENGAGEMENT IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C. 257
No. 4.
Reports of Brig. Gen. Roswell 8. Ripley, C. S. Army, commanding First
Military District.
FORT SUMTER, April 7, 1863.
Have visited Fort Sumter. One 10-inch gun carriage and chassis dis
abled; one 8 inch burst; two rifled dismounted and now replaced-
walls badly shaken in two or three places; 4 men badly wounded'
The engineers should look out and have material and laborers for re
pairs as soon as possible. Colonel Bhett, Lieutenant-Colonel Yates,
and Major Blanding are doing all that can be done to repair. Do send
us something for sand bags to fortify shaken places— if the people send
their petticoats and pillow-cases— at once. One steamer should be sent
down with what can be furnished to carry ammunition to Morris Island.
Some of the enemy have been badly hurt. The Keokuk is probably
for sale. Whether the attack will be renewed or not I cannot judge;
the probability is that it will, and the men will shoot better to-morrow
than to-day. The big torpedo did not explode ; I do not know why.
Shall go to Morris Island in an hour or so and find out, I don't think
we had better say it is over, but will let you know in the morning
E. S. EIPLEY.
Brigadier-General JORDAN.
HEADQUARTERS FIRST MILITARY DISTRICT,
DEPT. OF SOUTH CAROLINA, GEORGIA, AND FLORIDA,
Charleston, April 13, 1863.
GENERAL : Upon the 1st instant the increase of the enemy's force
in the Stouo and information from North Edisto gave warning that
the long threatened combined movement upon Charleston was about to
take place. Brig. Gen. S. E. Gist, commanding first sub-division of this
district, James Island, and Saint Andrew's, took prompt measures for
the observation and repulse of any attack in that direction. Col.
E. F. Graham, commanding third sub-division, occupied the- shore of
Morris Island, on Light-House Inlet, to control the passage from Folly
Island, and a strict watch has been kept up to the present time on the
land movements of the enemy.
On the 5th the iron-clad fleet of the Abolitionists, consisting of seven
monitors and one double-turreted vessel, hove in sight from Fort Sum
ter and came to anchor outside, in the vicinity of the Ironsides frigate,
then a part of the blockading squadron. The 6tji was apparently spent
by the enemy in preparation and by our artillerists in verifying the
condition of their material.
On the morning of the 7th the enemy was inside the bar with all his
ironclads, including the frigate, but from his proximity to the shoals
and the haze of the atmosphere his position could not be determined.
The various works of preparation were progressed with both on the
exterior and interior lines of defense until about 2 o'clock p. in., when
the enemy steamed directly up the channel, the Weehawkeu, with a
false prow for removing torpedoes attached, leading, followed by three
monitors, the Ironsides (flag-ship), three other monitors; the Keokuk,
double- turret, bringing up the rear.
17 R R — VOL xiv
258 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVI.
At each fort and battery officers and men made preparation for im
mediate action, while the enemy came slowly and steadily on. At 3
o'clock Fort Moultrie opened fire. At five minutes past 3 the leading
vessel, having arrived at 1,400 yards of Fort Sumter, opened upon it
with two guns. The eastern battery of Fort Sumter replied. Bat
teries Bee, Beauregard, Wagner, and Cummings Point opene^J about
this time and the action became general, the four leading monitors clos
ing up on the Weehawken, and taking position at an average distance
from the forts and batteries of about 1,500 yards.
In accordance with instructions, the fire from the different points was
concentrated upon the leading vessels, and the effect was soon apparent
from the withdrawal of the leading monitor from action, her false prow
having been detached and she otherwise apparently injured. The re
gard and Bee.
The Ironsides meantime opened fire, and drew the attention of Forts
Moultrie and Sumter and the Cummings Point Battery. A iew heavy
and concentrated discharges caused her to withdraw out of range, where
she was soon followed by two other monitors.
At five minutes past 4 the Keokuk left here consorts and came to
the front, approaching to within 900 yards of Fort Sumter, 1,200 from
Battery Bee, and 1,000 of Fort Moultrie. Her advance was character
ized by more boldness than had hitherto been shown by any of the
enemy's fleet, but receiving full attention from the powerful batteries
opposed to her the effect was soon apparent. The 10-inch shot and
7-inch rifle bolts crashed through her armor; her hull and turrets were
riddled and stove in, her boats were shot away, and in less than forty
minutes she retired with such speed as her disabled condition would
permit.
The remaining monitors kept their positions for a time, but soon one
by one dropped down the channel and came to anchor out of range,
after an action of two hours and twenty-five minutes, at ranges varying
from 900 to 1 ,500 yards.
The fall effect of our batteries upon the enemy could not be precisely
ascertained, and as our strength had not been entirely put forth it was
believed that the action would soon be renewed. The monitor which
had led into the action, however, proceeded south inside of the bar on
the same evening.
Before the commencement of the affair I was proceeding in a boat to
Battery Bee, and watched the progress of the cannonade from that
point. The guns were worked with as much precision as the range
would admit. There were no damages or casualties. Visiting Fort
Moultrie, the damaged flag-staff was being replaced and everything
prepared for the renewal of the fire should the enemy approach again.
One man had been mortally wounded by the falling of the staff. Cross
ing the channel to Fort Sumter, the effect of impact of the heavy shot
sent by the enemy against the fort which they are so anxious to repos
sess, greater in caliber and supposed distinctive force than any hitherto
used in war, was found to have been much less than had been antici
pated, live men had been injured by splinters from the traverse, one
Much columbiad had exploded, one 10-inch carriage had its rear tran
som shot away, and one rifled 42-pounderhad been temporarily disabled
trom the effect of recoil on defective carriages.
The garrison was immediately set to work to repair damages, and
CHAP XXVI.] ENGAGEMENT IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, 8. C. 259
tbe strength of the enemy's projectiles having been ascertained, to guard
sudi points as might be exposed to their effect should the attack be re
newed.
Cummings Point Battery and Battery Wagner were uninjured, ex
cept from the accidental explosion of an ammunition chest in Battery
Wagner.
During the night of the 7th stores were replenished, threatened points
upon laud re- enforced, working parties from the Forty-sixth Georgia Kegi-
ment brought to Fort Sumter, and the renewal of the. struggle in the
morning awaited with confidence.
When day dawned on the morning of the 8th the enemy's fleet was
discovered in the same position as noticed on the previous evening.
About 9 o'clock the Keokuk, which had been evidently the most damaged
in the action, went down about 3£ miles from Fort Sumter and three-
fourths of a mile from Morris Island. The remainder of the fleet were
repairing damages. Preparations for repulsing a renewed attack were
progressed with in accordance with the instructions of the commanding
general, who visited Fort Sumter on that day. A detachment of sea
men under Flag- Officer W. F. Lynch arrived from Wilmington, and on
the 9th temporarily relieved the artillerists in charge of the Cummings
Point Battery. The operations of the enemy's fleet consisted only in
supply and repair. •
Toward evening of the 9th a raft, apparently for removing torpedoes
or obstructions, was towed inside of the bar. Nothing occurred of im
portance during the 10th.
During the night of the 10th Lieutenant-Colonel Dargan, of Colonel
Graham's command, crossed Light-House Inlet, drove back the enemy's
pickets with loss, and returned with 1 prisoner.
On the llth there were indications that the attacking fleet was about
to withdraw ; and on the 12th, at high water, the Ironsides crossed the
bar and took up hei position with the blockading fleet, and the monitors
steamed and were towed to the southward, leaving only the sunken Keo
kuk as a monument of their attack and discomfiture.
In this the first trial of the Abolition iron fleet against brick fortifica
tions and their first attempt to enter the harbor of Charleston, in which
they were beaten before their adversaries thought the action had well
commenced, they were opposed by seventy- six pieces in all, including
mortars. Thirty-seven of these, exclusive of mortars, were above the
caliber of 32-pounders. The expenditure of shot against the fleet was
2,229 projectiles, of which over 1,000 were over the caliber of 32-pounders.
The guns which the enemy brought to bear were, if their own account
is to be believed, 30 in number, including 8 inch rifled and 11 and 15
inch guns, which would make their weight of metal at one discharge
nearly, if not quite, equal to that thrown by the batteries.
During the action Brigadier General Trapier, commanding second
sub-division of thfs district, was present at Fort Moultrie ; Brigadier-
General Gist, commanding first sub-division, at Fort Johnson j Col. K.
F. Graham, commanding third sub-division, on Morris Island, and Col.
L. M. Keitt, commanding Sullivan's Island, at Battery Bee, attending
to these duties and awaiting the development of the attack. The ac
tion, however, was purely of artillery ; forts and batteries against the
iron-clad vessels of the enemy; other means of defense, obstructions
and torpedoes, not having come into play.
Fort Sumter was the principal object of the enemy's attack, and to that
garrison, under its gallant commander. Col. Alfred Ehett, ably seconded
by Lieut. Col. J. A. Yates arid Maj. Ormsby Blaudiug, and all the ofli-
260 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVL
cers and men, special credit is due for sustaining the shock and with
their powerful armament contributing principally to the repulse.
The garrison of Fort Moultrie, under Col. William Butler, seconded by
Major Baker and the other officers and soldiers, upheld the historic rep
utation of that fort and contributed their full share to the result. The
powerful batteries of Battery Bee were commanded by Lieut. Col. J. C.
Simkins, and were served with great effect.
Battery Wagner, under Maj. C. K. Huger; Cummings Point Battery,
under Lieutenant Lesesne, and Battery Beauregard, under Captain Sit-
greaves, all did their part according to their armament.
Indeed, from the reports of the commanders, it is hard to make any
distinction where all did their duty with devotion and zeal. Those
cases which have been ascertained will be found in the reports of the
subordinate commanders. The steady preparation for receiving are
newed attack by the officers and the good conduct and discipline of the
troops, especially in the garrison of Fort Sumter, where the labor was
necessarily great, have been quite as creditable as their conduct under
fire.
While service in immediate action is that which is most conspicuous,
after such a result as has been accomplished, the greatest credit is due
to that long, patient, and laborious preparation by which our works
and material, never originally intended to withstand such an attack as
has been encountered, have been so resecured as to enable our gallant
and well-instructed officers and men to obtain their end with compara
tively small loss. In that preparation the late Lieut. Col. Thomas M.
Wagner contributed much on both sides of the channel, and Colonel
Rhett, Lieutenant-Colonel Yates, Major Blanding, and other officers of
Fort Sumter have been more or less engaged since the fort fell into our
hands two years since.
Colonel Butler, Lieutenant-Colonel Simkins, and other officers of the
First South Carolina Infantry have been for more than a year engaged
at the works on Sullivan's Island.
Besides these, various officers of engineers and other branches of the
department staff, known to the commanding general, have been at dif
ferent times principal contributors in the work, and, although in the limits
of this report it is impossible to mention all to whom credit is due, it is
well that works like these, without which in such emergencies as the pres
ent personal gallantry avails naught, should be appreciated.
During the seven days while the presence of the fleet threatened ac
tion Capt. William F. Nance, principal assistant adjutant- gen era! on the
district staff, performed his difficult duties in the administration of a
command of 20,000 men in a prompt, judicious, and efficient manner.
He was assisted by Lieuts. H. H. Rogers and W. H. W^agner, aides-de
camp.
Capt. F. B. DuBarry, district ordnance officer, was especially active
and energetic in the supply of ammunition and material for the batteries.
He was assisted by Lieut. C. C. Pinckney.
Capt. B. H. Head, assistant adjutant-general; Col. Edward Manigault,
and Lieut. Col. St. Clair Bearing, volunteers upon the staff, were present
during the action at Fort Sumter.
Capt.E. M. Seabrook, volunteer aide-de-camp, and Lieutenant Schnierle,
enrolling officer and acting aide-de-camp, were generally with me during
the active period, and all were energetic and prompt in the discharge of
the duties required of them.
Capt. John S. Ryan acted on my immediate staff.
To Maj. Motte A. Priugle and Norman W. Smith, post and district
CHAP. XXVI.] ENGAGEMENT IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C. 261
quartermasters, and Captain McClenahan, acting commissary of sub
sistence, many thanks should be rendered. The duties of the quarter
master's department were excessively laborious on account of the limited
means of transportation, and it is a matter of congratulation that with
such means they were so well performed.
The reports of engineer officers will inform the commanding general
of the condition of the various works, as well as of the acts of officers in
that branch of the service.
I have the honor to transmit herewith a sketch of the position of the
enemy's fleet at 4.15 p. m. on the 7th ; a return of the guns engaged ; a
return of ammunition expended; a numerical return of casualties, and
the reports of different commanders. To the last I beg respectfully to
refer for such information as is not included in this report. *
I have also to transmit herewith two Abolition ensigns obtained from
the Keokuk, as she lies off Morris Island Beach, by Lieutenant Glassell,
0. S. Navy, one of which is evidently the ensign under which she fought
and was worsted.
None of the iron-clads flew large flags, the object having doubtless
been to avoid presenting a mark to our artillery.
I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
E. S. EIPLEY,
Brigadier- General, Commanding.
Brig. Gen. THOMAS JORDAN, Chief of Staff.
* See pp. 1015-1017.
262 COASTS OF S. C., GA , AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVI.
[Incloenre.]
CHAP. XXVI.] ENGAGEMENT IN CHARLESTON HAEBOE, S. C.
263
Return of guns and mortars at forts and batteries in Charleston Harbor engaged with
Abolition iron-dads April 7, 1863.
«
i
I '
.2
|
1
1
1
§
=6
rt
^
o
,0
c
Q
00
a
Fort or battery.
*o
3
g
s
2
£
|
3
o
P
«
"o
o
p
"3
a
3
o
A
^
,£3
3
p
•d
.9
a
1
.9
ft
ft
.9
§
o>
t-
06
§
CO
«
O
Fort Simter
4
2
2
8
7
1
13
7
Fort Moultrie
9
5
5
2
Battery Bee
1
1
I
1
1
Battery Wanner .
1
Total
76
10
3
2
19
7
8
18
9
Return of ammunition expended at forts and batteries in Charleston Harbor in action with
Abolition iron-dads April 7, 1863.
Fort or battery.
Round shot.
Round shell.
Rifle shot.
3
1
0
1
Friction tubes.
Pounds of cannon powder
used.
10-inch columbiad.
1
2
a
a
1
,d
o
.9
CO
9-inch Dahlgren.
1
I
CO
100
243
10-inch mortar.
8-inch columbiad, in
cendiary.
7-inch Brooke.
42-poucder.
32-pounder.
i
1
CO
"38"
120
54
40
51
""5
86
140
21
192
1,047
1,200
350
27
157
73
2
7,620
7,375
3,940
132
1,155
860
11
21, 093
Fort Moultrie
Battery Bee
225
58
22
41
64
45
7
Battery Cummings Point
40
26
2
Fort Johnson
Total
385
731
80
343
93
5
86
140
88
IT
m
2,856
Return of casualties at different forts and batteries in Charleston Harbor in action with
Abolition iron-dads April 7, 1863.
Fort or battery.
|
3
"Wounded.
i
3
1
Total wounded.
Remarks.
Mortally.
Dangerously.
Severely.
Slightly.
Fort Sumter
1
4
5
1
5
By splinters from traverse.
By fall of flag-staff.
By explosion of ammunition
chest.
Fort Moultrie
3
1
2
3
3
Grand total
3
1
3
7
8
11
264 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [OiiAi-. XXVt
No. 5.
Reports of Col. Alfred Rhett, First South Carolina Artillery, commanding
Fort Sumter,
FORT SUMTER, April 7, 1863.
The nearest iron-clad to Sumter, the Keokuk, came within 900 yards;
the others from that to 1,000 yards.
ALFRED EHETT,
Colonel, Commanding.
Capt. JOHN M. OTEY,
Assistant Adjutant- General.
HDQRS. FIRST EEGIMENT SOUTH CAROLINA ARTILLERY,
Fort Sumter, April 13, 1863.
CAPTAIN : I have the honor to make the following report :
The Abolition iron-clad fleet, consisting of the frigate New Ironsides
and eight monitors, appeared in sight on Sunday morning, April 5
instant; crossed the bar the same evening, and anchored in the main
Ship Channel.
At 2 o'clock p. m., April 7 instant, the whole iron clad fleet advanced
to the attack in the following order, viz : Four monitors were in ad
vance, led by the Passaic. The Ironsides came next, followed by three
other single-turreted monitors, and the Keokuk, a double-turreted moni
tor bringing up the rear.
At thirty minutes past 2 p. in. the long roll was beaten and every
disposition made for action.
At fifty-five minutes past 2 p. m. the garrison, regimental, and Pal
metto flags were hoisted and saluted by thirteen guns, the band play
ing the national air.
At 3 o'clock p. m. the action was opened by a shot from Fort Moultrie.
At three minutes past 3 p. m. the leading vessel having approached to
within about 1,400 yards of the fort she fired two shots simultaneously,
one a 15 inch shrapnel, which burst; both passed over the fort. The
batteries were opened upon her two minutes later, the firing being by
battery. The action now became general, and the four leading monitors
taking position from 1,300 to 1,400 yards distant, the fire was changed
from fire by battery to tire by piece, as being more accurate. The fire
by battery was again resumed as occasion offered. The Ironsides did
not approach nearer than 1,700 yards. The whole fire of the batteries
engaged was concentrated on the Passaic for thirty minutes, when she
withdrew from the engagement, apparently injured. The other ships
each in its turn received our attention. The fire of both Fort Moultrie
and this fort being now directed against the Ironsides she immediately
withdrew out of effective range.
The other turreted monitors came under our fire in like manner as
the preceding, slowly passing in front of the fort in an ellipse; one
only, the last, approaching»to about 1,000 yards.
At five minutes past 4 p. m. the Keokuk left her consorts and ad
vanced bow on gallantly to within 900 yards of our batteries. She
received our undivided attention, and the effect of our fire was soon
apparent. The wrought-iron bolts from 7-inch Brooke gun were plainly
CHAP. XXVI.] ENGAGEMENT IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C. 265
seen to penetrate her turret and hull, and she retired in forty minutes,
riddled and apparently almost disabled.
At twenty-five minutes past 5 p. m. the whole fleet withdrew. The
iron-clads had been under our fire for two hours and twenty-five minutes.
The Keokuk has sunk ; one monitor was towed south on the morning
of the 8th April, instant ; several were apparently injured, and the fact
has been demonstrated that iron-clads of the monitor class are not in
vulnerable.
The enemy's fire was mostly ricochet and not very accurate ; most of
their shot passed over the fort and several to the right and left. The
greater portion of their shots were from 1,300 to 1,400 yards distant,
which appeared to be the extent of their effective range. Some shots
were from a greater distance, and did not reach the fort at all.
For the effect of the fire of the enemy upon the fort I would respect
fully refer to report of engineer.
One 8-inch cohimbiad, old pattern chambered gun, exploded. This
gun was being fired at about 1° elevation, and it is my opinion that its
bursting was caused by the shot rolling forward when the gun was run
into battery. In firing at low degrees of elevation and at depression sabot
shot should be used. One 42-pounder rifled gun was dismounted by re
coil and temporarily disabled. One 10-inch columbiad was disabled by
having the rear transom of its carriage shot away. Both guns were
again ready for action in a few hours. The garrison flag received a shot
through the union. The regimental flag was much torn by fragments
of shell.
The garrison, consisting of seven companies First South Carolina
Artillery, were disposed as follows, viz:
1. Capt. D. G. Fleming, with Company B, 78 men, in command of east
parapet battery, assisted by Lieuts. F. D. Blake and Iredell Jones.
Lieut. J. M. Ehett, Company A, although on sick report, was assigned
temporarily to Company B.
2. Capt. F. H. Harleston, with Company D, 74 men, in command of
northeast parapet battery, assisted by Lieuts. McMillan King and W. S.
Simkins.
3. Capt. J. G. King, with Company F, in command of northwest par
apet battery, assisted by Lieuts. A. S. Gaillard, John Middleton, and W.
H. Johnson.
4. Capt. J. C. Mitchel, with Company I, 78 men, in command of west
parapet battery, assisted by Lieut. J. S. Bee.
5. Capt. J. E. Macbeth, with Company E, 77 men, in command of mor
tar battery and east casemate battery, assisted by Lieut. J. J. Alston.
6. Capt. W. H. Peronneau, with Company G, 77 men, in command of
northeast casemate battery, assisted by Lieut. E. S. Fickling.
7. Capt. C. W. Parker, with detachment Company C, 55 men, and de
tachment Company E, in command of northwest casemate battery,
assisted by Lieuts. G. E. Haynsworth and K. Kernper.
8. Lieut W. H. Grimball, with regimental band, 15 men, m command
of second tier casemate battery.
9. Lieutenant Clarkson, with detachment of 25 men of Company J3,
Charleston Battalion, posted in second tier of casement as sharpshoot
ers. Lieutenant-Colonel Yates, having reported for duty on the morn
ing of the 7th April, was assigned to the immediate command of the
parapet batteries. The casement batteries were under the immediate
command of Maj, Orrnsby Blanding.
The following'is the number of guns brought into action :
Brooke guns, four 10-inch columbiads, two 9-inch Dahlgrens, four 8-iuch
266
COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVI.
columbiads, four 8-inch navy guns, seven banded and rifled 42-pouuders,
one banded and rifled 32-pounder, thirteen smooth-bore 32-pounders,
and seven 10-inch sea-coast mortars.
The following were the officers of the staff: Lieut. S. 0. Boyleston,
adjutant; Capt. T. M. Barker, assistant quartermaster 5 Capt. S. P.
Eavenel, acting chief of staff; Eev. N. Aldrich, chaplain ; Sergt. Maj.
C. P. Grundshig. and Quartermaster Sergt. William Mcoll. Lieut.
Charles Inglesby was officer of the day; Lieut. J. G. Hey ward was offi
cer of the guard; Lieut. E. P. Ravenel was acting ordnance officer,
assisted by Lieut. James B. Heyward, lieutenant of ordnance.
The medical department was under charge of Surg. M. S. Moore,
assisted by Asst. Surg. Samuel Muller. Mr. Edward White was pres
ent as acting engineer officer.
The members of the Signal Corps were T. P. Lowndes, Arthur Grim-
ball, and Joseph Seabrook.
Several officers of General Ripley's staff were present during the en
gagement, and in the absence of General Eipley tendered their services
to me. Capt. Benjamin Eead, assistant adjutant- general, Col. Edward
Manigault, and Col. St. Clair Bearing; were present, having tendered
their services also. Mr. LaCoste also was present and rendered efficient
service.
With regard to the conduct of the garrison it is impossible for me to
draw any distinction. Officers and men were alike animated with the
same spirit, and I cannot speak in too high terms of their coolness and
gallantry throughout the action. All acted as though they were en
gaged in practice, and the minutest particulars of drill and military
etiquette were preserved. For expenditure of ammunition I would re
spectfully refer to inclosed report of ordnance officer. For a list of
casualties I would also refer to inclosed surgeon's report.
At 9 o'clock a. m. April 8th the Keokuk was seen to sink near Mor
ris Island Beach, where she now lies.
Respectfully submitted.
ALFRED RHETT,
Colonel. Commanding.
Capt. W. F. NANCE,
Assistant Adjutant- General, First Military District.
[Incloaure No. 1.]
Return of killed and wounded in the First Regiment South Carolina Artillery in the action of
the 7th of April, 1863.
B
Wounded.
Total wounded.
"3
|
i
Officers
Non commissioned officers
2
1
2
1
2
Musician
Privates
1
1
4
6
CHAP. XXVI.] ENGAGEMENT IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C. 267
FORT SUMTER, S. C., April 13, 1863.
Lieut. S. 0. BOYLESTON,
Adjutant First Regiment South Carolina Artillery :
SIR : I have the honor to submit the above list of casualties in this
garrison on 7th of April, 18G3.
Your obedient servant,
M. S. MOOEE,
Surgeon, Provisional Forces Confederate States.
[luclosure No. 2.]
HDQBS. FIRST EEGT. SOUTH CAROLINA ARTILLERY,
Fort Sumter, April 11 [?], 1863.
W. F. NANCE, Assistant Adjutant- General :
CAPTAIN : I have the honor to inclose copy of dispatches received
from Ironsides during the last few days.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
ALFEED EHETT,
Colonel, Commanding.
[Snb-inclosores.]
APRIL 9, 1863.
1st. Captain G. : He is in bad condition, having been days
out in a gale.
2d. Captain G. : A good steamer had better watch BulFs Bay, as it
is now the principal approach to Charleston. Send raft.
ADM'R'L D.
3d. If Captain Eeynolds desires to come in by the tug to the Ironsides
to do so.
4th. Captain G. : Send schooner immediately to Port Eoyal.
ADM'R'L D.
5th. "Be there an attack this p. m. ?" Question from the Powhatan
to the Ironsides. Answer. u£To attack to-day ."
APRIL 10, 1863.
1st. Eeport vessel Wunkoin [?] when sailed for Port Eoyal.
2d. Get hawsers for ordnance schooner.
ADM'L D.
3d. Detain provision schooner.
ADM'L D.
4th. Captain G. : I learn that our mail was forwarded by an army
steamer. Send Bibb for it to Stono.
ADM'L D.
5th. Captain G. : Send aid immediately to ordnance , making
signals. Send all ordnance schooners to North Edisto.
ADM'L D.
6th. was sent from Port Eoyal.
EODG>RS.— G. E. S.
7th. any means of finding out by W. S. A. T.
268 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVI.
APRIL 11, 1863.
1st. Captain L. : Where is the Bibb ? Shall want her near. Shall
want her this morning near the bar.
CAPT. K.
2d. Captain G. : Send the Ha to Port Royal.
ADMIRAL DuPoNT.
FORT SUMTER, April 12, 1863.
Captain NANCE:
I have the honor to report the Ironsides moving toward the bar in
tow of a steam-tug. Copy of dispatch from Ironsides : "James Adger
and Bibb at bar at 12 o'clock, to render assistance a tow. — Ad
miral D."
No. 6.
Report of Lieut. E. Prioleau Ravenel, First South Carolina Artillery.
FORT SUMTER, April 13, 1863.
SIR: I have the honor to report the following expenditure of ammu
nition on the 7th instant, viz :
Powder, in pounds 7,620
10-inch columbiad shot 120
8-inch columbiad shot 270
9-inch 54
32 pounder 100
7-inch rifle 86
42-pounder rifle 140
Total 770
10-inch inortar shell, filled 40
810
I would state that in two of the above items (viz, 8-inch columbiad shot
and 32-pouuder shot) I have been compelled to approximate, in conse
quence of some of each kind having been covered up in the haste by
the traverses.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
E. PRIOLEAU RAVENEL,
First Lieut., First S. G. Artillery, and Acting Ordnance Officer.
Lieut. S. C. BOYLESTON,
Adjutant First South Carolina Artillery.
No. 7.
Reports of Brig. Gen. J. H. Trapier, C. S. Army, commanding on Sulli
van's Island.
HDQRS. SECOND SUB-DIVISION, FIRST MILITARY DIST.,
Sullivan's Island, April 13, 1863.
CAPTAIN : I have the honor to submit the following report of the
CHAF.XXVI.I ENGAGEMENT IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C. 269
action of the 7th instant between the enemy's fleet of iron-clad war
vessels and the fort and batteries on this island:
At about 2 o'clock p. in. on that day it was reported to me that the
movements of the fleet which had been for some hours anchored within
the bar were suspicious, and that some of the vessels appeared to be
advancing. So stealthily did they approach, however, that not until
2.30 o'clock did 1 become convinced that the intentions of the enemy
were serious, and that the long-threatened attack was about to begin.
I immediately repaired to Fort Moultrie, where I had previously de
termined to make my headquarters during the action. Slowly, but
steadily, the iron clads approached, coming by the Middle or u Swash"
Channel in single file, the Passaic (it is believed) in the van, followed .by
the rest (eight in number) at equal distances, the flag-ship, New Iron
sides, occupying the center. At 3 o'clock Col. William Butler, com
manding in the fort, reported to me that the leading ship was in range.
I ordered him immediately to open his batteries upon her, which was
done promptly, and the action began. Fearing that the range was
rather long for effective work, the firing after a few rounds was sus
pended for a short time ; but finding that the enemy refused closer
quarters, there was no alternative but to engage him at long range or
not at all. We decided upon the former, and Fort Moultrie again
opened her batteries. Batteries Bee and Beauregard had also by this
time opened fire, and the action had become general. It soon became
obvious that the enemy's intention was to fight and not to run by, and
orders were given to " train" on vessels nearest in and to fire by bat
tery. Volley after volley was delivered in this way, but although it
was plain that our shot repeatedly took effect — their impact against
the iron casing of the enemy being distinctly heard and seen — yet we
could not discover but that the foe was indeed invulnerable.
At about 5.30 o'clock p. m., or after the action had lasted about two
hours and a half, the enemy slowly, as he had advanced, withdrew from
the contest, apparently unharmed, so far at least as his powers of loco
motion went. Subsequent events have happily revealed the fact that
one at least of our enemy's "iuvulnerables" has given proof that brick
walls and earthern parapets still hold the mastery.
The nearest that the enemy ventured at any time to Fort Moultrie was
estimated at 1,000 yards ; to 'Battery Bee, 1,600 yards ; to Battery Beau-
regard, 1,400 yards.
Fort Moultrie was garrisoned by a detachment from the First Regiment
South Carolina Regular Infantry, Col. William Butler commanding, as-
Battery Bee was garrisoned by another detachment from the same
regiment, commanded by Lieut. Col. J. C. Simkins, and consisted of the
following companies : Company C, Capt. Robert De Treville ; Company
H, Capt, Warren Adams ; Company I, Capt. W. T. Tatom. Col. L. M.
Keitt, Twentieth Eegiment South Carolina Volunteers, by my consent,
took post at Battery Bee and remained there during the action.
Battery Beauregard was under the command of Capt. J. A. Sitgreaves,
First South Carolina Regular Artillery, and was garrisoned by the fol
lowing companies : Company K, First South Carolina Regular Artillery,
First Lieut. W. E. Erwin commanding; Company B, First bouth Caro
lina Regular Infantry, Capt. J. H. Warley commanding.
It gives me pleasure to have it in my power to report that not a single
270
COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVI.
casualty occurred among any of these troops, with the exception only of
one in Fort Moultrie. Early in the action our flag-staff was shot away,
and in falling struck private J. S. Lusby, Company F, inflicting a severe
wound, from which he died in a short time. Neither the fort itself nor
its material was in the least injured.
It is due to the garrison of Fort Moultrie and their soldierly and
accomplished commander, Colonel Butler, that I should not close this
report without bearing testimony to the admirable skill, coolness, and
deliberation with which they served their guns. They went all, men
as well as officers, to their work cheerfully and with alacrity, showing
that their hearts were in it. There was enthusiasm, but no excitement.
TJiey lost no time in loading their guns, but never fired hastily or with
out aim. The reports of Colonel Keitt, Lieutenant-Colonel Simkins,
and Captain Sitgreaves give me every reason to believe that the garri
sons of Batteries Bee and Beauregard acquitted themselves equally
well, and are equally entitled to the thanks and gratitude of their com
mander and their country. Colonel Butler makes honorable mention
of the following oflicers :
Capt. William H. Wigg, A. C. S., when the^ flag-staff was shot away,
promptly mounted a traverse and placed the regimental flag in a con
spicuous place upon it. Capt. G. A. Wardlaw, assistant quartermaster,
and Lieut, and Adjt. Mitchell King and First Lieut. D. G. Calhoun
were likewise prompt in placing the battle and garrison flags in con
spicuous positions. Lieutenant Williams, ordnance officer, is also fav
orably mentioned.
To Capts. William Greene and B. G. Pinckuey, of my staff, and First
Lieut. A. H. Lucas, my aide-de-camp, I am indebted for valuable assist
ance ; and my thanks are also due to Lieut. Col. O. M. Dautzler and
Dr. G. W. Westcott, volunteer aides for the occasion.
I have the honor to transmit herewith a statement in tabular form
showing the expenditure of ammunition by Fort Moultrie and the bat
teries during the action.
All of which is respectfully submitted.
J. H. TEAPIER,
Brigadier- General, Commanding.
Capt. W. F. NANCE,
Assistant Adjutant- General.
[In closure.]
Return of ammunition expended on Sullivan's Island, S. C., during the action of 7th April.
1S63.
Fort Moultrie.
Battery Bee.
Battery Bean-
regard.
Total.
10-inch colnmbiad solid shot
225
58
225
461
5
243
45
45
233
51
1,707
12, 470
8-inch columbiad ronnd shot
339
5
243
38
64
8-inch columbiad shell (incendiary)
32-pounder round shot
Hollow shot (32-poundrr rifle gun)
7
45
41
Conical shot (3-'-ponnder rifle gun)
Bolts (32-pounder rifle gun)
192
51
1,200
7,375
10-inch mortar shell
Pounds of powder
350
3,940
157
1,155
CIIAI-. XXVI.] ENGAGEMENT IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C. 271
HDQRS. SECOND SUB-DIVISION, FIRST MILITARY DIST.,
Sullivan's Island, April 10, 1863.
Eespectfully submitted.
J. H. TKAPIER,
Brigadier- General, Commanding.
HDQRS. SECOND SUB-DIVISION, FIRST MIL. DIST. S C.,
Sullivan's Island, April 15, 1803.
Capt. W. F. NANCE,
Asst. Adjt. Gen., First Mil. Dist. S. C., Charleston, 8. C. :
CAPTAIN: I respectfully request that the paragraph immediately pre
ceding that which covers my report of the action of the 7th may be
altered to read as follows :
"To Capts. William Greene and B. G. Pinckney, of my staff', and First
Lieut. A. H. Lucas, my aide-de-camp, I am indebted for valuable assist
ance; and my thanks are also dne to Lieut. Col. O. M. Dantzler and Dr.
G. W. Westcott, volunteer aides for the occasion."
I beg leave also to invite the attention of the brigadier- general com
manding the district to the heroic conduct of Private Joseph Harri
son, Company G, First South Carolina Regular Infantry, as related by
Colonel Butler in his report. The haste with which my report was pre
pared under the stringent order from district headquarters must be
my excuse for inaccurate phraseology and inadvertent omissions.
Very respectfully, captain, your obedient servant,
J. H. TEAPIEE,
Brigadier- General, Commanding.
SULLIVAN'S ISLAND, April 18, 1863.
DEAR GENERAL : If my report of the late action is to be published
will you be kind enough to correct for me a slight error in it.
I say "Colonel Keitt, as previously arranged between us, made his
headquarters at Battery Bee," &c. This is not expressed precisely as
it should be. After I had taken post at Fort Moultrie Colonel Keitt
reported to me and said that with my consent he would go to Battery
Bee. Of course I consented.
The alteration which I would like to have made is this. For the sen
tence* quoted above substitute the following :
" Colonel Keitt, by my consent, took post at Battery Bee and remained
there during the action."
The phraseology more exactly describes what actually took place.
My report was 'prepared very hastily, under a very stringent order
from the brigadier-general commanding the district, and is not what i
ought to be; but so long as it tells the story truly I am willing to let it
stand as it is.
With great respect and esteem, I am, very sincerely, yours,
J. H. TRAPIlirfK.
No. 8.
Report of Col. Lawrence M. Keitt, Twentieth South Carolina Infantry.
HEADQUARTERS SULLIVAN'S ISLAND, April 13, 1863.
CAPTAIN: I had the honor this morning to send to you the reports of
272 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVI.
the commandants of the various batteries on Sullivan's Island engaged
in the action of 7th instant with the enemy's iron-clad fleet.
The action began at 3 o'clock by Fort Moultrie, and in a short time
thereafter was general throughout all the batteries. Immediately after
the opening of the engagement I left Fort Moultrie (where Brigadier-
General Trapier had stationed his headquarters and was overlooking
the conflict) and repaired to Battery Bee.
At this battery I found the garrison alert and ready to direct their
fire against the invading fleet. Their guns were promptly trained and
tired with rapidity and great precision.
I saw very distinctly a large number of 10-inch shot from this battery
strike the Keokuk, and also two of the monitor vessels, which alter
nately advanced to the front. They struck turrets, decks, and hull.
The injury inflicted could not be accurately estimated, but I believe
that it was severe. The officers of the garrison were cool, vigilant, and
energetic, and the men were prompt, active, and thoroughly familiar
with their duties. Lieutenant-Colonel Simkius overlooked the manage
ment of the battery, and I testify to his vigilance, skill, and the ener
getic discharge of his duties.
The firing I thought a little too rapid, but I have no doubt that in the
end it subserved a good purpose. The storm of shot and bolts which
fell around the enemy confused if it did riot appall him.
The Beauregard Battery directed its fire with great precision against
the Ironsides and the two monitors which were nearest to it. The shot
from this battery struck those vessels repeatedly.
The officers and men behaved with the highest coolness and gallantry.
Fort Moultrie was under General Trapier's own eye, and he can best
tell how worthily she vindicated her historical reputation. The com
panies of the Twentieth Eegiment South Carolina Volunteers which
were upon the island were drawn up to protect the upper batteries and
to repel a land attack if such were attempted. They were eager to join
their brethren in arms in the conflict, but the prudent abstinence of the
foe from an attempt to land prevented them. They were under com
mand of Capt. P. A. McMichael, Lieutenant-Colonel Dantzler having
been invited by General Trapier to act as his special aide on the occa
sion ; and had a land attack been made Lieutenant- Colonel Dantzler
could easily have reached the portion of his regiment drawn up on the
island and have taken command of it, which he intended to do.
I have the honor to be, captain, your obedient servant,
LAWRENCE M. KEITT,
Colonel, Commanding Post.
Captain GREENE,
Assistant Adjutant- General.
Ko. 9.
Report of Col. William Butler, First South Carolina Infantry, command
ing Fort Moultrie.
HEADQUARTERS,
Fort Moultrie, S. (7., April 13, 1863.
SIR : I have the honor to submit the following statement of the part
taken by this fort in the action with the iron-clad fleet of the Abolition
ists on the 7th of this month :
CHAP. XXVI.] ENGAGEMENT IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C. 273
On the 5th the attacking fleet, consisting of eight turreted gunboats
and the steam-frigate Ironsides, crossed the bar and took a position
about 3£ or 4 miles from this fort.
On the 7th it advanced in the direction of the harbor, one of the tur
ret boats some distance in advance.
As soon as the leading boat came within range I reported the fact to
the brigadier-general commanding, and received orders from him to
commence the action.
Thinking that it was the object of the enemy to run by Fort Sumter
I permitted the firing to be rapid at the commencement, using every
precaution, however, to encourage deliberation in aiming. The boats
engaged were at all times during the action within range of the guns
of this fort.
About three-quarters of an hour after the first gun was fired the
frigate Ironsides steamed up to within 1,600 yards, and took a position
apparently with a view of taking a prominent part in the action. All
the guns that could be brought to bear were trailed upon her and fired,
and she in a few moments afterward moved out of range.
The fire was generally directed upon the boat in advance, and I think
with some effect; shots were seen to strike frequently, many of them
breaking to pieces.
The guns engaged were manned by Companies A, E, F, and G, First
South Carolina Infantry, commanded respectively by Capts. F. A. Hu-
guenin and K. Press. Smith, First Lieut. E. A. Erwin, and Capt. B. S.
Burnet ; the mortars by Company K, Capt. C. H. Eivers, were fired
with creditable accuracy.
Officers and men performed their duties with spirit and celerity.
During the action the flag-staff was cut down by a shot from the
enemy, which in falling struck Private Lusby, Company F, First South
Carolina Infantry, causing his death in a few minutes. This was the
only casualty of any importance. One gunner, Private Harrison, Com
pany G, lost a finger by some inadvertence in running a gun into bat
tery, but returned to his post after getting his wound dressed.
When the flag was struck down Capt. W. H. Wigg, A. C. S., promptly
placed the regimental flag in a conspicuous place upon a traverse.
Capt. G. A. Wardlaw, acting quartermaster, and Lieut, and Adjt.
Mitchell King and First Lieut. D. G. Calhoun were likewise prompt in
placing the battle and garrison flags in conspicuous positions. Maj. T.
M. Baker, First South Carolina Infantry, was wherever his service
\vould be most useful.
The ordnance officer, Second Lieut. Thomas Williams, was at his post
at the magazine. Much credit is due to him for the good condition of
the gun-carriages and other ordnance stores.
I have already submitted a report of the amount of ammunition ex-
pended.
The guns engaged consisted of nine 8-inch columbiads, five 32-pouuder
rifled and banded guns, five smooth-bore 32-pounders, and two 1
mortars.
I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient rA
WILLIAM
Colonel First South Carolina Infantry, Commanding.
Lieut. W. C. HANE,
Adjutant Forces Sullivan's Island.
18 B B — YOL XIV
274 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVI,
No. 10.
Report of Lieut. Col. J. C. Simkins, First South Carolina Infantry, com
manding Battery Bee.
HEADQUARTERS DETACHMENT OF FIRST INFANTRY,
Battery Bee, April 13, 1863.
CAPTAIN : I have the honor to report that at about 2.30 p. m. on
Tuesday, the 7th instant, the officer of the day reported to me that the
monitor fleet of the enemy, accompanied by the Ironsides, was approach
ing. I immediately ordered the long roll beat, the gnus were manned,
and everything got in readiness for action.
On reaching the battery nine iron-clads, including the Ironsides, were
observed slowly making their way up Ship Channel. At times four of
the monitors proper were in line of battle in advance, the Ironsides and
others in rear. While waiting the nearer approach of the enemy in
structions were given that the left section of battery, commanded by
Capt. Warren Adams, should commence firing on an order from me, to
be followed, first, by Capt. William T. Tatom, commanding center sec
tion, and finally by Capt. Kobert De Treville, commanding section on
extreme right, and that the fire should be concentrated on the leading
vessel until otherwise directed.
The advance vessels, still numbering four, took their positions, alter
nately ranging from 1,800 to 2,000 yards from this battery.
At 3 o'clock p. m. Fort Moultrie opened on the enemy, followed by
Fort Sumter. Ten minutes later (3.10 p. m.) this battery opened fire.
At this time the fire became general from all the outer forts and bat
teries in the harbor and the advanced iron-clads of the enemy, which
fired slowly, directing their fire principally at Fort Sumter. An occa
sional shot was fired at this battery, none of them doing any injury.
As it was believed that the object of the enemy was to pass the bat
teries and enter the harbor the firing at first was rapid, but at all times
deliberate and well directed. When it became evident that such was
not his intention, the firing from this battery became slower and con
tinued so until the Kepkuk advanced in closer range to Fort Sumter
and this battery, at which time the order was given to fire more rapidly
and to concentrate it on her.
Two hundred and eighty -three solid shots were fired from this bat
tery, Captain Adams firing 126; Captain Tatom. 84, and Captain De
Treville, 73. Of this number many were distinctly seen to strike the
vessels aimed at, and, it is believed, doing serious damage in many
instances.
At 5.30 p. m. the enemy's fleet withdrew and all firing ceased.
The officers and men of this command did their duty.
I am happy to state that no casualties occurred at this battery, and
believe the command to be as effective as it was prior to the engage
ment.
I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
J. C. SIMKINS,
Lieutenant- Colonel, Commanding.
Oapt. WILLIAM GREENE,
Auistant Adjutant-General.
CHAP. XXVI.] ENGAGEMENT IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, 8. C. 275
No. 11.
Report of Oapt. J. A. Sitgreaves, First South Carolina Artillery, com
manding Battery Beauregard.
BEAUREGARD BATTERY, Sullivan's Island, April 13, 1863.
CAPTAIN : I have the honor to report that about 2 o'clock p. m. on
Tuesday, the 7th instant, it was reported to me that the enemy's iron
clads, which have previously taken a position inside the bar, were
steaming up main Ship Channel. I ordered the long roll sounded and
all the guns of this battery to be maimed forthwith, placing those
men who were not engaged at the guns in a position so as to be pro
tected from the fire of the enemy.
As soon as the leading boat came within range and after Moultrie
and Sumter had opened I directed the fire of two rifle guns and an
8-inch columbiad on that boat, and continued to fire on her until I was
satisfied that it was not her intention to pass the forts.
I fired rapidly at first, because I saw that she would soon reach a
point on which my rifled guns could not be brought to bear. About
this time the Ironsides came up and exposed her broadside, when I
immediately directed the fire of the same guns on her, and paid more
attention to her than any other boat during the fight. I occasionally
fired a shot at the Keokuk or on one of them that offered a fair mark
to the guns used. About 4.30 I found that my supply of rifled projec
tiles and 8-inch solid shot were getting short. I ordered the firing to
cease and sent a messenger to the fort to know if I could be supplied,
but received a message from Brig. Gen. J. H. Trapier in the mean time
to cease firing altogether.
The guns that were engaged were manned alternately by detachments
from Company K, First South Carolina Artillery, Lieut. W. E. Erwin
commanding, and from Company B, First Infantry, Capt. J. H. Warley
commanding.
I am satisfied that the Ironsides was struck several times by shot
from this battery, and I think one or two others were also struck, with
what effect it is impossible to say except from reports since the engage
ment, which lead us to believe that the enemy were considerably dam
aged.
I have reason to be satisfied with the firing and the cool, deliberate,
and determined aspect which characterized both men and officers during
the engagement.
I inclose a tabular statement of the amount and kind* of ammunition
expended.
The enemy fired several rounds at us, none of which took effect
were no casualties from any cause whatever.
I have the honor to be, your obedient ™™$b^WS,
Captain, Commanding.
Capt. WILLIAM GREENE, Assistant Adjutant- General.
No. 12.
Report of Lieut. Col. A. T.Dargan, Ticenty-firit South Carolina Infantry.
MORRIS ISLAITD, April 7, 1863.
Considerable damage apparently done to the iron-clads. Marks of
276 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVL
shot are visible on their decks and through smoke-stacks ; decks of one
considerably torn up. Two men mortally wounded in Battery Wagner,
1 since dead, 2 seriously; 2 slightly wounded by explosion of ammuni-
ti0" Che8t A. T. DAEGAN,
Lieutenant- Colonel.
Brig. Gen. THOMAS JORDAN.
No. 13.
Report of C. K. Huger, South Carolina Artillery, commanding Artillery
on Morris Island.
BATTERY WAGNER, Morris Island, April 8, 1863.
COLONEL : I have the honor to report that during the engagement
yesterday this battery fired twenty-two shots and the one at Cum-
mings Point sixty-six ; nobody hurt at Cummings Point ; but I regret
to have to report that from the accidental explosion of an ammunition
chest I have had at this battery eight casualties, viz : Balled, Sergt. G.
W. Laugley, Privates Amos Fitzgerald and Jerry Dyer; wounded, Sec
ond Lieut. G. E. Steedman, not dangerously ; Corpl. Mathew Martin
slightly ; Private Samuel Eed seriously, Marion Quillan slightly, and
Thomas Prince slightly. Total, 3 killed and 5 wouuded=8 ; all of the
Mathewes Artillery, Capt. J. Eaven Mathewes.
There was no opportunity for any display of gallantry, but all did
their duty with cheerfulness and promptness. The guns of this bat
tery were of too light a caliber to be of much service, but those at Cum-
mings Point, under the immediate command of Lieutenant Lesesue, of
First Artillery, were much heavier, and the firing was particularly good.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
C. K. HUGEE,
Major, Commanding Artillery, Morris Island.
Col. E. F. GRAHAM, Commanding, Morris Island.
No. 14.
Report of Col. A. D. Frederick, Second South Carolina Artillery, com
manding Fort Johnson, James Island.
HEADQUARTERS AT EAST LINES,
April 12, 1863.
COLONEL : I have the honor to report that one of my companies —
Company I, Captain Humbert—stationed at Fort Johnson, had a small
share in the glorious little fight of the 7th instant with the turreted
iron-clads in Charleston Harbor.
About 2.30 o'clock of that afternoon eight iron-clads were seen ap
proaching for the purpose of engaging Fort Stimter, and when within
easy range they opened fire upon her. My guns of heavy caliber at
that post, being so placed as to bear only upon the inner harbor, could
not be brought to bear upon the iron-clads ; but in our anxiety to "have
a place in the picture," and in order somewhat to test the range of a
-inch mortar in that direction, I authorized Lieutenant Boliver, in
charge, to open fire from it, which, after being fired twice with shell,
CHAP. XXVI.J ENGAGEMENT IN CHARLESTON HAKBOK, S. C. 277
filled and plugged, and the object sought attained, was ordered to be
discontinued.
The officers and men were all eagerly anxious to play a part in the
engagement, and we only regret that our position was such as to pre
vent our having a more prominent place in an engagement which does
so much credit to all concerned.
I am, colonel, very respectfully,
A. D. FREDERICK,
Colonel Second Regiment Artillery, South Carolina, Comdg.
Col. C. H. STEVENS, Comdg. Eastern Div., James Island.
[Indorsement.]
HDQBS. JAMES ISLAND AND SAINT ANDREW'S,
HcLeod's, April 14, 1SC3.
Respectfully forwarded.
I reached Fort Johnson some twenty minutes after the engagement be
tween the monitors and the forts and batteries had commenced on the
7th instant, and finding that the mortar located at Fort Johnson was
not effective, the range being too great, ordered the firing discontinued
after two shells had been thrown. Battery Glover was not engaged at
any time.
Respectfully,
S. B. GIST,
Brigadier- General.
No. 15.
Report of Lieut. W. T. Glassell, C. S. Navy, commanding C. S. S. Chicora.
C. S. GUNBOAT CHICORA,
Charleston Harbor, April 13, 1863.
GENERAL: Having made a visit to the Keokuk this morning with a
view to observing the effect of your batteries upon her iron turrets I
succeeded in procuring the trophies, which it affords me much pleasure
to forward to you, viz, two United States flags, two pennants, and three
signal flags. Several other articles were also obtained— a rammer,
springs, lanterns, &c. — which are on board the Chicora.
I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
W. T. GLASSELL,
C. S. Navy.
Brig. Gen. R. S. RIPLEY.
Ko. 16.
Thanks of the South Carolina Legislature.
RESOLUTIONS OF THANKS TO THE TROOPS FOR THE DEFENSE OP
CHARLESTON HARBOR.
Resolved unanimously, That the gallant defense made by our officers
and men in Charleston Harbor against the first onset of the foe entitle
them to the thanks of the whole country, and under the blessin
kind Providence is hailed as the harbinger ot a still more glorious vie
tory.
278 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVL
Resolved. That a copy of these resolutions be sent to the general com
manding this department.
IN THE SENATE, April 9, 1863.
Resolved, That the Senate do agree to the resolutions.
Ordered, That they be sent to the House of Bepresentatives for con
currence.
WM. E. MARTI*,
Cleric of the Senate.
IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, Apl. 10, 1863.
Resolved, That the House do concur in the resolutions.
Ordered, That they be returned to the Senate.
JOHN T. SLOAN,
Clerk of the House of Representatives.
No. 17.
Report of Capt. Henry 8. Tafft, U. S. Signal Corps, Chief Signal Officer
Department of the South.
OFFICE OF CHIEF SIGNAL OFFICER DEPT. OF THE SOUTH,
Hilton Head, S. C., April 14, 1863.
MAJOR : I have the honor to transmit the following report of signal
operations in connection with the recent attack upon the works of the
enemy near Charleston. Officers were assigned to the different com
mands and naval vessels in the order stated below.
Capt. H. S. Tafft on flag-ship Ben De Ford; Lieut. H. Clay Snyder
with Major-General Hunter; Lieut. G. S. Dana with General Seymour;
Lieut. C. F. Cross with General Terry; Lieut. T. L. Hatfield with
Colonel Metcalf; Lieut. E. H. Hickok with Colonel Guss; Lieut. Will
iam Eeynolds with Colonel Putnam ; Lieut. T. C. Vidal with chief quar
termaster; Lieut. F. E. Town, Admiral DuPont, on Ironsides; Lieut.
George Stroop on sloop of war Canandaigua ; Lieutenants Keith and
Moffat with General Heckman; Lieutenants Schouler and Eichardson
with General Stevenson: Lieutenant Pierce with Colonel Davis; Lieu
tenants Fletcher and Gibbs with General Ferry; Lieutenant Holbrook
with Colonel Howell; Lieutenant Davis with Colonel J. J. De Forest;
Lieutenant Cooley on gunboat Sebago.
Admiral DuPont sailed from Hilton Head on the morning of the 2d
instant for Charleston Bar. Major-General Hunter and staff sailed
the following morning, reached Edisto, and anchored inside the bar, re
maining until the 5th. Arrived off Stono Bar same evening and com
municated with army fleet inside. Morning of the 6th moved up to
Charleston Bar, where were lying at anchor the naval blockading fleet
and the irou-clads.
Communication was immediately opened between the headquarters
of General Hunter, the flag-ship, and the sloop of war Canandaigua.
During the preceding night the column of our forces under command of
Colonel Howell arrived at the head of Folly Island. The signal officer
with them opened communication at once with the flag-ship, thus giving
the first information to the commanding general bv signals of our pos
session of the island.
CHAP. XXVL] ENGAGEMENT IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C. 279
At 3 p. m. 7th instant the attack upon Fort Sumter by the irou-clads
was made, our fleet remaining in action about two and a half hours
under the most terrific fire. Immediately after the conclusion of the
attack the admiral reported by signals to General Hunter the result
of the engagement as follows :
To General HUNTER:
Delayed in getting under way by accident, orders not reaching the leading ship.
We attempted to pass into the inner channel, but were obliged to anchor to prevent
going ashore. Engaged the forts, bnt found it too late to continue. Casualties few.
One iron-clad disabled; two partially so. Ironsides very slightly ; struck rery often.
Please inform senior naval officers.
DuPONT.
The succeeding day General Hunter was informed by signals that the
attack would be renewed as soon as the disabled iron-clads were in order.
We awaited such movements until the afternoon, when I received from
Lieutenant Town a confidential dispatch to the effect that no further
engagement would take place for the present. This information I gave
unofficially to General Hunter, being, I suppose, the first notice he had
received of such determination on the part of the admiral. In the after
noon General Hunter left the Ben De Ford, and in a small boat went to
Stono.
Morning of the 9th the Ben De Ford also sailed for Stono with dis
patches for the general. From this date to the llth we remained out
side Stono Bar, communication by signals being constantly kept up with
the troops upon Folly Island and with the troops outside the Stono.
On the llth the general again came on board the Ben De Ford and
sailed for Port Royal, followed by all the land forces with the exception
of one brigade left in possession of Folly Island and one brigade at
Edisto. Signal officers remained with these forces. A line is estab
lished from one end of Folly Island to the other at Edisto between the
gunboats and land forces.
Officers and men without exception performed their duty during this
expedition to my entire satisfaction.
Lieutenant Town, upon the Ironsides, was at all times diligent, and
rendered much valuable service to the naval forces. The accompanying
copy of a letter from the admiral sufficiently vouches for his efficiency.
Lieutenant Stroop, upon the Canandaigua, was also energetic and
faithful in the performance of his duties. Copy of letter from Admiral
DuPont to him also inclosed.
Lieutenant Snyder upon the Ben De Ford, Dana with General Sey
mour, Cross with General Terry, evinced by prompt attention to duty
their appreciation of the responsibility of their positions. Other officers
perhaps were equally diligent, but their positions not such as to bring
their energies into requisition.
No brilliant service was performed by either officers or men. Lieu
tenant Town showed much bravery under fire, and his men, Cornelius
Colter and John McLaughliu, Fiftieth Eegiment Pennsylvania Volun
teers, are deserving of credit for the faithful performance of duty.
Accompanying this I forward sketch of the position of our irou-clads
and the batteries of the enemy.*
I have the honor to be. verv respectfully, your obedient servant,
HENRY S. TAFFT,
Captain and Chief Signal Officer, Department of the South.
Maj. A. J. MYER,
Signal Oflieer, U. S. Army.
* Not found.
280 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVL
[Inclosure No. 1.1
FLAG-SHIP JAMES ADGER,
Port Royal, April 13, 1863.
Lieut. F. E. TOWN,
Acting Signal Officer, Department of the South :
SIR : Your services being no longer required afloat, you will please
report accordingly to Lieutenant Tafft, chief signal officer.
I avail myself of this occasion to express my warm commendation at
the zealous and most efficient manner in which you performed your
almost ceaseless duties in keeping up communication between the re
serve squadron outside and the fleet of iron clads inside the Charleston
Bar, in whose attack upon the works of the enemy you participated.
I am, respectfully, your obedient servant,
S. F. DuPONT,
Rear-Admiral, Comdg. South Atlantic Blockading Squadron.
[Inclosure "No. 2.]
FLAG- SHIP JAMES ADGER,
Port Royal, April 13, 1863.
Lieut. GEORGE STROOP,
Acting Signal Officer, Department of the South :
SIR: Your services being no longer required afloat, you will please
report accordingly to Lieutenant Tafft, chief signal officer.
I avail myself of this occasion to express my warm commendation at
the zealous and most efficient manner in which you performed your
almost ceaseless duties in keeping up communication between the re
serve squadron outside and the fleet of iron-clads inside the Charleston
Bar.
I am, respectfully, your obedient servant,
S. F. DuPONT,
Rear-Admiral, Oomdg. South Atlantic Blockading Squadron.
APEIL 9, 1863,— Destruction of steamer George Washington, near Beau
fort, S. C.
IRIEIPOIRTS.
No. 1.— Brig. Gen. Rufus Saxton, U. S. Army, commanding District of Beaufort.
No. 2.— Col. Joseph R. Hawley, Seventh Connecticut Infantry.
No. 3.-— Brig. Gen. W. S. Walker, C. S. Army, commanding Third Military District.
No. 4.— Capt. Stephen Elliott, jr., Beaufort (S. C.) Artillery.
No. 1.
Report of Brig. Gen. Rufus Saxton, II. S. Army, commanding District of
Beaufort, S. C.
BEAUFORT, S. 0., April 9, 1863.
COLONEL: I have the honor to report the total loss of the steamer
George Washington this morning opposite the Brick yard under the
following circumstances :
On yesterday she started in company with the U. S. gunboat Hale for
CHAP. XXVI.] STEAMER GEORGE WASHINGTON. 281
"Whale Branch, where the latter boat was ordered to take her station.
The Hale ran aground at the Brick-yard, while the Washington went on
her way to the ferry. Finding that the Hale did not succeed in getting
off she returned to her assistance. The two vessels anchored opposite
the Brick-yard until 4 o'clock this morning, when the Hale started for
her station. The Washington, instead of starting as she should have
done, remained at her oncliorage until daylight this morning, when the
rebels opened fire upon her from a light battery of six rifle guns, which
they had brought there during the night. The battery was about 1 J miles
from the boat. One shot struck the rudder of the boat and another,
a shell, set the magazine and boat on fire, exploding directly in the
magazine. The vessel is completely destroyed.
As far as I can ascertain but 2 lives were lost; 6 men were wounded,
4 of them slightly. The rest all escaped.
It is my opinion that the conduct of the officers in command of the
two boats is deserving of the severest censure — that of the Hale for
starting off before daylight without giving notice to the officer in com
mand of the Washington, and of the latter for laying all night within
gun-shot of the rebels' lines, giving them ample time to bring their
light battery from the railroad station.
From all that I can learn the enemy is in considerable force in our
immediate vicinity, and an attack may be expected at any moment.
Colonel Elwell has applied to Captain Moore for the steamer Darling
ton, which I had just repaired, now the Washington is lost. This
vessel is absolutely essential until the present emergency is over. She
can only use wood, and is totally unfit to go to sea, and would be use
less should she reach Charleston. I respectfully request that I may be
allowed to retain her.
I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
B. SAXTON,
Brigadier- General, Commanding.
Col. CHARLES G. HALPINE,
Assistant Adjutant- General.
No. 2.
Report of Col. Joseph R. Hawley, Seventh Connecticut Infantry.
HEADQUARTERS TJ. S. FORCES,
Hilton Head, S. C., April 10, 1863.
GENERAL: I have the honor to report certain facts concerning the
loss of the armed steamer George Washington.
I most respectfully declined obeying the peremptory order of General
Saxton to send the Washington to Beaufort before she had completed
the task assigned her by yourself, as I supposed, in protecting Captaii
Graef s operations. General Saxton, on board the Flora, went to bea-
brook's and commanded the Washington to follow him to Beautort,
and Lieutenant Blanding felt obliged to obey.
On the 8th the E. B. Hale and Washington started to go around l <
Koval Island on a reconnaissance, conducted by Captain Bnggs, Ihir.
Ehode Island Artillery. Before reaching the terry the Hale go api
At night she got off, and about 4.30 a. m. ot the Oth start
the knowledge of the officers of the Washington. The latter started
282 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVL
about 5 or 5.30 a. ra. to follow her, and had proceeded a mile or two
when a turn in the channel revealed a rebel light battery directly astern,
perhaps a mile distant, which instantly opened fire. The Washington
had only a howitzer astern, and could not turn to reply. The second
shot exploded the magazine, which was in the afterpart of the vessel,
unshipped the rudder, broke the steering gear, ripping up the deck,
tumbling the howitzer into the hold, and destroying all the ammunition
for the James rifle forward. The vessel took fire and began to fill
rapidly. The master backed her toward the marsh on our side. Cap
tain Briggs ordered a white flag raised — against the protests of the
master, Campbell, who continued his attempt to escape. They put the
wounded on the marsh and all scrambled off. The rebels, seeing this,
resumed their fire, of course, and with great accuracy, though it is
not known that any were struck while crossing the wide marsh. The
wounded lying on the bank were captured by a boat party of rebels.
The B. B. Hale, somewhere near Broad Eiver, was informed by some
one (she having heard the firing, it is said) and went back and sent or
received a flag of truce and took the wounded. The Washington burned
to the water's edge.
The total loss is 14, all, it is supposed, from the explosion. Two were
killed instantly; 2 seriously (probably fatally) wounded, 8 slightly, and
2 missing. Some of the men were hours scrambling through the marsh.
No officers were hurt.
No unusual movements of the enemy have been perceived. All is
quiet.
I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
JOS. E. HAWLEY,
Colonel Seventh Connecticut Volunteers, Commanding Post.
Brig. Gen. T. SEYMOUR,
Chief of Staff ', Department of the South.
No. 3.
Report of Brig. Gen. W. S. Walker, C. 8. Army, commanding Third Mili
tary District.
HDQRS. THIRD MILITARY DISTRICT, SOUTH CAROLINA,
Pocotaligo, S. C., April 16, 1863.
GENERAL : I have the honor to report that at daylight on the 9th
instant I attacked the armed steamboat George Washington, in Coosaw
iiver, with two guns of the Nelson Light Artillery, Captain Lamkin
commanding, and four from the Beaufort Volunteer Artillery, under
iieut. H. M. Stuart. Six companies of the Forty-eighth North Carolina,
Col. E. C. Hill, and five companies cavalry, Col. B. H. Eutledge com
manding, and two pieces liglit artillery, drawn by mules, under Capt.
W.JU Campbell, Company I, Eleventh Eegiment Infantry, were ordered
to the neighborhood of Port Eoyal Ferry and Chisolm's Island as a
support.
After a few discharges the steamer was set on fire by a shell and
burned to the water's edge. The enemy raised the white flag and our
cannonade ceased. They availed themselves of the cessation of our fire
to escape to the shore.
Capt. Stephen Elliott visited the wreck and found her armed with
CHAP. XXVI.] STEAMER GEORGE WASHINGTON. 283
two 24-pounder brass howitzers and a 20-pounder James rifle gun.
Two men of the crew were found mortally wounded and 1 dead. The
wounded reported that 1 was burned up with the wreck, and among
those who escaped several were wounded.
A detachment of Captain Cooper's battery, three Parrott guns, and
Capt. Stephen Elliott's battery, two guns, had been sent to intercept a
gunboat moving toward Port Eoyal Ferry. She passed the ferry, how
ever, before the batteries arrived. The Parrott guns were then used in
shelling the pickets on the opposite shore, and exhibited great range
and accuracy of fire.
Upon the night of the 10th two pieces of heavy artillery and nine of
light, supported by three companies of infantry and three companies of
cavalry, the whole under command of Capt. Stephen Elliott, were sent
to Chisolm's Island with boats for the purpose of raising the guns of
the burnt steamer. It was found that the enemy had raised one gun,
a 24-pounder howitzer. Captain Elliott, with a section of the Beaufort
Artillery, raised and brought to shore one brass 24-pounder howitzer,
several Enfield rifles, and some portions of the vessel's equipments.
With the means at his disposal he found it impracticable to raise the
20-pounder James gun. The enemy shelled the wreck from the opposite
shore, making it dangerous to work.
There were no casualties in either affair on our side.
I take pleasure in stating that the artillery practice was excellent, and
the whole command showed great promptitude and alacrity throughout
the enterprise.
Capt. Stephen Elliott exhibited his characteristic coolness and skill
as an artillery officer. Lieut. E. H. Barriwell, Capt. John H. Screven,
and Lieut. George L. Washington, of my staff, were zealous in the dis
charge of their duties, and rendered efficient service.
I inclose the report of Capt. Stephen Elliott.
Yery respectfully, your obedient servant,
W. S. WALKEE,
Brigadier- General, Commanding.
Brig. Gen. THOMAS JORDAN, Chief of Staff, &c.
No. 4.
Report of Capt. Stephen Elliott, Jr., Beaufort (S. C.) Artillery.
HDQRS. ARTY., THIRD MIL. DIST. OF S. C.,
April 14, 1863.
SIR : I have the honor to submit a report of the capture of the armed
steamer George Washington by a portion of the artillery of this com
mand on the morning of the 9th instant.
At 5 o'clock on the 8th instant a gunboat and a steamer were reported
near Chisolm's Island, the former aground and the latter making efforts
to get her off. The following artillery forces were ordered to report
the causeway leading to the island, viz : Beaufort Artillery, Lieutenant
Stuart, six guns ; Kelson Artillery, Captain Lamkin, four guns j Cooper s
North Carolina battery, three 10-pounder Parrott guns, and Company
I, Eleventh Eegiment South Carolina Volunteers, Captain Campbell,
the batteries were being brought into position the gunboat,
which had now been set afloat by the rising tide, moved ofl
Eoyal Ferrv. General Walker then directed me to divide the guns and
284 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVL
to take one portion to the ferry with the view of intercepting he/;, and
to order the other portion to open fire on the steamer as soon as she should
attempt to move. I directed Captain Lamkin with two guns and Lieti-
tenant Stuart with four guns to remain, and sent forward the rest to the
other point. At o o'clock a. m. the steamer gave indications of moving,
and these guns were rapidly placed in battery by their commanding offi
cers and a brisk fire opened upon her with 6-pounder shot and 12-pounder
shell. After two rounds it was evident that she was disabled. She
raised a white flag and drifted up the river and across to the opposite
shore.
Upon hearing the firing I returned, and observing that her crew were
attempting to escape into the marsh opposite I directed the commanders
of batteries to reopen fire upon them, and continued it until they had
disappeared. She was now evidently on fire, and as soon as the explo
sion of shell and powder on board had subsided I boarded her and found
that she had sunk in 4 feet of water, was burnt to the water's edge, and
had carried two 24-pounder howitzers aft and 20-pounder Parrott pivot
gun forward. There were 3 men in her yawl, which lay astern, 2 of them
severely wounded and the third dead. They were taken ashore. Efforts
were made to bring off one of the howitzers, which from want of proper
means were unsuccessful. Attracted by the cries of wounded men in
the marsh I entered it, but the reappearance of the gunboat rapidly ap
proaching rendered it unsafe to remain any longer. As the wounded
men had been left where they would not be perceived by the enemy and
could not be assisted by us, I rode back with a flag of truce and directed
the attention of the captain of the gunboat to them, and after some un
important conversation with him returned. No information of impor
tance was elicited from the prisoners while in our possession.
The practice of our batteries reflected great credit on the gunners,
conducted as it was at early dawn and at a rapidly moving object half
a mile distant.
The expedition sent down two days afterward succeeded in getting
off from the wreck a 24-pounder howitzer (which was buried on shore
until it could be brought off with safety), the bell, and a small kedge
anchor. A heavy and continuous shelling of the wreck from the oppo
site shore forbade all further attempts to secure the pivot gun. The
enemy had already moved the other howitzer.
My thanks are due to Captain Earle, of the Furman Light Artillery,
a volunteer, who rendered efficient aid during the attack upon the boat,
and also to Captain Barn well, of General Walker's staff, who upon
both expeditions afforded me the most valuable assistance.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
STEPHEN ELLIOTT, JR.,
Chief Artillery, Third Military District of South Carolina.
Capt. JAMES LOWNDES,
Acting Assistant Adjutant- General.
APRIL 10, 1863— Skirmish on Folly Island, S. C.
Report of Col. George B. Dandy, One hundredth New York Infantry.
HEADQUARTERS NORTH END FOLLY ISLAND, S. C.,
April 11, 1863.
SIR : I have the honor to submit, for the information of the general
CHAP. XXVI.] SKIRMISH ON FOLLY ISLAND, S. C. 285
commanding, the following report of an attack made last night by a
detachment of the enemy upon my pickets at the extreme northern
point of this island.
When my regiment first took this advanced position, on the night of
the 6th instant, the enemy probably knew nothing of our having occu
pied the island, as the advance was made in the night. On the 8th in
stant I received the following order from Brigadier-General Seymour
chief of Major-General Hunter's staff:
ORDERS.] APRIL 8, 1863.
To the Commanding Officer at north end Folly Island :
I. Withdraw every officer and man to the woods (keeping the movement concealed
by passing along the beach at low tide) except yourself and 10 good men. The
signal party to go back also. Show not a sign of occupation ; watch closely, liut keep
perfectly concealed.
II. When the guns come up at night keep perfectly quiet ; make all the artillerymen
keep concealed, and send all back not absolutely required to the woods until further
orders.
T. SEYMOUR,
Chief of Staff.
I complied with the order, sent the regiment back, and remained with
10 men on the extreme point of the island. On the night of the 10th
nine pieces had been placed behind the sand hills at the point of the
island where our pickets rested, six of which were 12-poumlcr rifled
"Wiard field guns and the remaining three 12 -pounder Wiard howitzers
(rifled) for marine service. The same evening a detachment of about 30
of the Marine Artillery were brought up by Lieutenant Sands, of that
corps, to serve the three howitzers in case of an attack. All the pieces
and caissons were carefully concealed by piling bushes around them.
During the day I had, with the assistance of Captain McFarland, U. S.
Engineers, carefully reconnoitered the spot and the works of the enemy
on the opposite bank of Light-House Inlet. The result of our investi
gations made us apprehensive of an attack by troops landed by means
of boats or pontoons through one of the water-courses traversing the
marshes and communicating with the enemy's forces.
I finally decided to send for another company, which reached our
post about 10 p. m. This made our force on the point about GO men.
Our lookouts .aid pickets were all instructed, in accordance with Gen
eral Seymour's orders, to keep concealed, to watch carefully, and each
picket was instructed to communicate to me by one of their number
information of any movement of the enemy. Captain McFarland and
myself had taken^a position easily reached by any of the pickets, with
which and the route leading thereto they were all well acquainted.
At about 11 p. m. an attack was made by a detachment of the enemy,
variously estimated by the pickets at from 200 to 500 men. The night
was exceedingly dark. After having examined closely every person
who saw them, my own impression is that there was not less than
two companies, perhaps 120 men, composing the attacking party. They
must have landed on the marsh by means of boats or pontoons (from
one of the creeks before mentioned communicating with Light-House
Inlet), which marsh is at times passable by infantry.
Having passed to the rear by the edge of the woods skirting the long
sand bar separating us from the regiment they met and attacked our
extreme left picket (numbering 3 men and a corporal), dispersing them
and mortally wounding the corporal, Charles Sabine, Company H, and
taking prisoner Private John McDonald, of Company H,
No information was given me by any of the pickets of the approach
286 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVL
of the enemy. They were first perceived by the detachment of Marine
Artillery, who disgracefully abandoned their pieces, leaving their officep,
Lieutenant Sands, alone with them. Having deserted their pieces this
detachment ran over a picket of my regiment stationed near there, and
they also abandoned their posts without giving any information of the
approach of the enemy.
The enemy, having accomplished their object, retired before I could
bring either my guns or men to bear on them.
While the attack was being made on the pickets the enemy assembled
on the opposite shore (Morris Island) and fired heavy volleys of mus
ketry, no doubt to attract us in that direction. After the attack was
over 6 of the Marine Artillery men could not be found, and the same
waa the case in the morning ensuing.
I have the honor to be, sir, your obedient servant,
G. B. DANDY,
Colonel One hundredth New York Volunteer*.
Lieutenant McHENRY,
Assistant Adjutant- General.
APRIL 12, 1863.— Destruction of the steamer Stonewall Jackson.
Report of Capt. Charles T. HasMl,jr., C. S. Army.
BATTERY MARSHALL, April 12, 1863.
CAPTAIN : The steamer Stonewall Jackson, just from Nassau, was
fired into last night and chased ashore on Long Island by the Abolition
ists. She was set on fire at daylight by her captain, and will prove a
total loss. Her passengers, officers, and crew are now at this post, 54
in number.
It is a pity that she was fired, as she was under the protection of my
battery.
I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
CHAKLES T. HASKELL, JR.,
Captain, Commanding.
Capt. WILLIAM GREENE,
Assistant Adjutant- General.
APRIL 27, 1863.— Affair at Murray's Inlet, S. C.
Ibpori of Lieut. Col. Joseph A. Tates. First South Carolina Artillery,
commanding Fourth Military District.
HEADQUARTERS FOURTH MILITARY DISTRICT,
Georgetown, April 29, 1863.
CAPTAIN : I have the honor to report that pn the morning of the 27th,
at sunrise, two of the enemy's vessels appeared off Murray's Inlet, and
after shelling for two hours landed about 70 or 80 men, under protection
of their guns, on a small island, and set fire to a schooner lying in the
inlet and near the shore of this island, but out of reach of our rifles.
They immediately retired to their boats, leaving one of their men, who
CHAP. XXVI. J AFFAIR AT MURRAY'S INLET, S. C. 287
was captured by our pickets. There were four other vessels in the in
let, which they continued shelling nearly all day, but without effect.
I immediately concentrated all the force I could spare from other
points, and am prepared to resist them when they return, which I sup
pose will be very soon, to destroy the other vessels. I sent a section
of artillery (two rifle guns) immediately up ; also ordered down one of
the companies of State troops, under Captain Boykin, who are stationed
near Little Eiver. Although not under my command ostensibly, yet
are virtually so, they being within the limits of this district. At the
time of their landing an effort would have been made to capture their
party, but Major Einanuel had but one company at that point and one-
third of those were on picket at the time ; he consequently took posi
tion near the four vessels which were higher up the creek, hoping that
they would attempt to come up in their barges to destroy them, but
which they failed to do. They are not aware of our present force at
that point, and no doubt will make another effort. If they do, I have
so arranged it that I am in hopes of capturing the party.
The prisoner I send under guard by to-morrow's train subject to your
order. From his statements (which circumstances render almost im
possible) I have good reason to believe he was intentionally left as a
I am. captain, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
JOSEPH A. YATES,
Lieutenant- Colonel, Artillery, Comdg. Fourth Military Dittrict.
Captain NANCE,
Assistant Adjutant- General.
MAY 4, 1863.— Affair at Murray's Inlet, S. 0.
Report of Lieut. Col. Joseph A. Yates, First South Carolina Artillery,
commanding Fourth Military District.
HEADQUARTERS FOURTH MILITARY DISTRICT,
Georgetown, May 5, 1863.
CAPTAIN : I have the honor to report that on yesterday at sunrise
two of the enemy's vessels appeared off Murray's Inlet, commenced and
continued shelling until 11 a. m., when they sent a boat ashore with 7
men, 5 of whom landed on the beach, for the purpose, we suppose, o
burning the vessels now lying there. Our men attacked them, killi
1 and wounding 3, apparently seriously, as they had to be assisted i
the boat. It appears that some of our men were discovered by tlier
too soon to admit of the capture of the othera. Major Emanuel, m his
report * mentions Private T. G. Britton as having behaved with great
gallantry. Arms of the man killed and 3 wounded I have t
I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient .servant,
lieutenant-Colonel, Commanding.
Capt. W. F. NANCE,
Assistant Adjutant- General. ^^^^
* Not found.
288 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVI.
MAY 18-21, 1863.— Torpedo operations in Skull Creek and skirmish at
Pope's Island, S. C.
Report of Capt. J. H. Mickler, Eleventh South Carolina Infantry.
BLUFFTON, S. C., May 25, 1863.
LIEUTENANT : I avail myself of the earliest opportunity to report the
services of my command, which has been engaged from time to time for
several weeks in arranging for the sinking of torpedoes in Skull Greek,
with the view of destroying the enemy's vessels, which are constantly
passing through this thoroughfare. The labor was very great, and the
work of locating them after they were got ready proved to be both dif
ficult and dangerous. 1 am happy to report, however, that in conjunc
tion with Captain Gray, who was in charge of the work, the torpedoes
were placed in position on Tuesday night last, 18th instant, without
any casualty whatever. On Wednesday night, with three boats and 28
men, I attempted a lauding on Pope's Island, opposite Buckingham,
more with a view to cover the operation of sinking the torpedoes and.
draw a gunboat through from Broad Biver to test our experiment than
otherwise. When within 50 yards of the shore the foremost boat
was hailed by a picket, to which I replied with a few rounds of buck
shot, which caused them to retire precipitately. I was fired upon in
turn from the next post to the left, with whom I had a sharp skirmish
for fifteen or twenty minutes from my boats as I withdrew. I could
distinctly hear the commotion on the island. I 'then reconnoitered
the shore line nearly as far down as Braddock's Point, frequently ex
changing shots with the enemy. We kept up our feint for several
hours and returned, without, however, bringing about the desired
result.
On Thursday night I secreted myself and 4 men in a hammock, known
as Buck Island, where I remained all day Friday. I had ample oppor
tunity of noticing the movements of the enemy. On Thursday night
and Friday could hear the grand rounds halted apparently every hun
dred yards; heard the officer enjoining the utmost vigilance on the part
of the sentinels, and from observations on Friday I should say that they
have largely increased their outposts. The shore line of Hilton Head
seems to be closely guarded; the sentinels walking post from one to
the other as regularly as a cam]) guard. They also have re-enforce
ments near at hand, as we could see their tents in some places. On Fri
day, about 3 o'clock p. ui., a large barge with a pleasure party came in
near and stood directly for our place of concealment (which is a part
of the Spanish Wells tract, between Broad Creek and Calibogue Kiver).
I fully expected to get the fine boat and crew ; but unfortunately the
regular dispatch steamer Island City was approaching from Skull Creek,
both boats passing about the same time, and I was compelled to remain
quiet. A more favorable opportunity 1 hope may offer very soon. I
venture to suggest that a rifled cannon of sufficient range be placed at
Buckingham, with the view of firing upon and sinking, if possible, the
enemy's light-draught steamers that carry dispatches from post to post.
This would certainly bring a gunboat through Skull Creek of sufficient
draught to explode our torpedoes, and might produce some advanta
geous results to us.
The men of my command were always prompt and energetic in the
discharge of the most exposed duties, and I am happy that I have not
CHAP. XXVI.] AFFAIR ON JAMES ISLAND, S. C. 289
any casualties on our side to report, and think it likely that the picket
who hailed iny boat was killed.
Very respectfully,
J. H. MICKLER,
Laptain Company E, Eleventh South Carolina Volunteers.
Adjt. 0. F. DAVIS, Post Hardeeville, 8. C.
[Indorsement.]
HEADQUARTERS THIRD DISTRICT SOUTH CAROLINA,
Pocotaligo, S. C., May 20, 1863".
Eespectfully forwarded to the general commanding. The necessary
measures are being taken to induce a gunboat to come up Skull Creek
W. S. WALKER,
Brigadier- General, Commanding.
MAY 31, 1863.— Affair on James Island, S. C.
Report of Col. C. H. Simonton, Twenty-fifth South Carolina Infantry.
HDQRS. FIRST SUB-DIV. FIRST MILITARY DISTRICT,
Secessionville, May 31, 1863.
CAPTAIN: I have the honor to report that this morning about ten
minutes after 4 o'clock a. m. a small party of the enemy, numbering
about 200 at the most, effected a lauding on James Island at the upper
causeway, nearly opposite and against Legard's house. Lieutenant
Lancaster, in charge of the cavalry picket, as soon as the alarm was
given, collected his picket and advanced to meet them. He was between
them and Battery Island. He found them around Legar#s house. As
soon as they discovered him they advanced in his direction, attempting
to outflank him. He fell back to the causeway between Grimball's and
Battery Island, and there protecting his flank took position. The
enemy ceased advancing upon him, and as he in turn advanced on
them they retreated toward Battery Island. Some of the party escaped
in boats toward Folly River through Schooner Creek, and the rest
went to Battery Island, where they were taken off by a steamer in
Stono. During this retreat the enemy shelled our men and fired grape
from a gunboat in Schooner Creek as well as from a battery on Folly
Island. The cavalry pickets were, at first 10 in number, increased to 18.
As soon as the news was sent to me I at once sent forward four com
panies of Twenty-fifth Regiment, under Major Glover, with orders to
engage the enemy in front, and at the same time sent Major Abney
with his battalion around through the wood in front of GrimbaH's with
instructions to proceed along the causeway from GrimbalPs to Battery
Island and there attack the enemy on the flank and rear. My object
was to cut off their retreat to Battery Island. My orders were promptly
obeyed, but the bird had flown. The skirmishers from both parties sent
out by me met at the old house nearest to Battery Island, and then
drove down to Battery Island, finding none of the enemy. Nearly every
man had left Battery Island. A large gunboat (the Pawnee) lying
above Battery Islaiid'commanded every approach to it.
19 R R — VOL xiv
290 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [Ciur. XXVI.
This expedition of the enemy removes all fear of our supposed bat
teries on Stouo, and no doubt we will have visits from them often.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
CHARLES II. SIMONTON,
Colonel, Commanding.
Capt. W. F. NANCE.
Assistant Adjutant- General.
JUNE 2, 1863.— Union raid on the Combahee River, S. C.
No. 1.— Brig. Gen. W. S. Walker, C. S. Army, commanding Third Military District.
Xo. 2.— Maj. W. P. Emanuel, Fourth South Carolina Cavalry.
No. 3.— Capt. H. Godbold, Fourth South Carolina Cavalry.
No. 4.— Lient. P. L. Breeden, Fourth South Carolina Cavalry.
No. 5.— Lieut. A. E. Gilchrist, Fourth South Carolina Cavalry.
No. 6.— Lieut. William E. Hewitt, Fourth South Carolina Cavalry.
No. 7.— Capt. W. L. Trenholm, Rutledge Mounted Rifles and Horse Artillery.
Xo. 8.— Capt. John F. Lay, C. S. Army, Inspector of Cavalry.
No. 1.
Report of Brig. Gen. W. S. Walker, C. 8. Army, commanding Third Mili
tary District.
HEADQUARTERS THIRD MILITARY DISTRICT,
McPhersonville, June 17, 18(J3.
GENERAL: I have the honor to report that on the 2d instant I re
ceived a telegram at about 9 a. m. that the enemy had landed 200 or
300 men at Field's Point and that a gunboat was destroying the pon
toon bridge at Combahee Ferry. I immediately ordered the entire com
mand to proceed to Pocotaligo Station and await further orders. 1 at
once galloped to the station (3 miles distant) to put myself in telegraphic
communication with the threatened point and to inform department
headquarters.
Upon the arrival of my command I ordered three companies of the
Eleventh South Carolina Infantry and Captain Trenholm's squadron
of cavalry (one company dismounted) to proceed by my special train to
Green Pond the whole under the command of Captain Trenholm, who
was instructed to be governed in his operations by the last reports of
the enemy's movements.
I sent with Captain Trenholm an excellent map of the country and
two guides.
One company of cavalry and a section of a battery were sent to
Salkehatchie Bridge; one company and a section to Combahee Ferry.
This force I considered amply adequate to repel any advance of the
enemy. Receiving, however, two successive telegrams from Major
Emamiel that the enemy were still advancing from Field's Point, and
fearing they might have been re-enforced without the knowledge of our
pickets, who had retired immediately on their approach, I telegraphed
to Charleston for some field rifled pieces with an infantry support, and
CHAP. XXVI.] UNION RAID ON THE COMBAIIEE RIVER, S. C. 291
proceeded myself to Green Pond to await the re-enforcements and ac
company them.
Upon my arrival at Green Pond I learned that the gunboats had left
the ferry, and reports from detached men arriving at the post satisfied
me that the raid had been successfully accomplished and that the euemy
had retired.
At 11 o'clock p. m. the Twentieth Regiment South Carolina Infantry,
Colonel Keitt commanding, arrived at Green Pond, and about the same
time I received an official note from Captain Treuholm stating "that the
enemy had finally disappeared.
I refer to the inclosed reports for the details of operations.
The enemy burned four fine residences and six mills, and took off
with them about 700 negroes, who are believed to have gone with great
alacrity and to some extent with preconcerted arrangement.
Several intelligent negroes had recently escaped to the enemy, among
them a pilot reported to be thoroughly familiar with the river. This
will account for the boldness and celerity of the enemy's movements.
I beg to inclose with reports of subordinate commanders certain in
structions and orders recently issued to Major Emanuel* (to whom an
excellent map of the country had been sent), with a copy of a circular
to planters, which had been posted at the railroad stations in my dis
trict, and copies of which had also been sent to two of the gentlemen
whose property has been lately destroyed.
The troops had been located about 3 miles nearer to Field's Point,
but two successive commanders, viz, Lieutenant-Colonel Jeffords and
Captain Bomar, had remonstrated against their troops being stationed,
there, on account of the extreme unhealthiness of the locality, and they
were moved to Green Pond.
Ballouville is about 3£ miles east of Combahee Ferry, and I had pro
posed to station an infantry command there, but its surgeon sent in an
official statement that troops could not be retained in that locality on^
account of malarious disease.
As the conduct of the officers and several non-commissioned officers
and privates of this command is to be investigated by official examina
tion I refrain from an expression of opinion in regard to it.
I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
W. S. WALKER,
Brigadier- General, Commanding.
Brig. Gen. THOMAS JORDAN,
Chief of Staff, &c.
[Inclosnre No. l.J
SPECIAL ORDERS, ) HDQRS. THIRD MILITARY DISTRICT,
]s[0. 50. ] Pocotaligo, February 23, 18C3.
In case the enemy land and advance from Port Royal Ferry the pick
ets at Cowpens, at Mackay's Point, and on Kean's Neck road near the
bridgeover Chisolm's Island, will remain concealed from observation ;
the rest will retire in the direction of the main body at Leverett s wal
ing the movements of the enemy. A picket at Leverett's will climb the
tree at that post and send report to headquarters. Should the enemy
land at Mackay's Point only, all the pickets will retire save those at 1 ort
Royal Ferry and Chisolm's Bridge. Upon the arrival c
*- See inclosures to Lay's report.
292 COASTS OF S. C., GA , AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVI.
Garden's Corner a squad will be sent down the Combahee Ferry road.
Tbey will conceal themselves at the side of the road and watch. They
can send report of the enemy's advance np that road by any one of those
by-roads leading into Combahee Kiver road. A large squad will also be
sent up the Sheldon Church road ; the main body will proceed by the
Stony Creek road over the Hospa Bridge. Should the greater portion
of the Abolition forces proceed over the Ilospa Bridge, a courier will be
dispatched by the road from Camp Pemberton at the spring through the
parsonage, to inform the pickets returning by the Sheldon Church road.
Should any portion of the enemy advance by the Sheldon Church road,
the larger number of the squad will take the Union road and make a
close observation of the enemy from the obstructions on that road. The
pickets will, whenever the cover permits, exchange shots with the enemy,
but particularly at the Ilospa Bridge, at obstructions on Sheldon Church
road, at Dr. Ilenry Fuller's, at Mrs. Eustis' Causeway, at obstructions
on Union road. In all contingencies the chief of the squad (who must
always be designated) in observation will send to headquarters from time
to time couriers with information of the advance and strength of the
enemy.
These orders will be read every day for one week in each cavalry com
pany. A copy will be supplied by every company commander to all his
officers and non-commissioned officers, to whose attention the extreme
importance of familiarizing themselves with the main roads and by-roads
of the country to operate in is commanded.
By order of Brigadier-General Walker.
JAMES LOWNDES,
Captain and Acting Assistant Adjutant- General.
[iDclosuro No. 2.]
SPECIAL ORDERS, ) HDQRS. THIRD MILITARY DISTRICT,
No. 112. J McPhersont'ille, May 26, 1S63.
* * * # * # #
XV. The recent false alarm of the pickets stationed on Combahee
River was not justified by circumstances. Before giving such an alarm
the pickets should have ascertained positively whether a boat had lauded
or not and how many men were in it. If only 5 or 6, it is the duty of
the pickets, if only 2 should be on post, to engage them. If a large num
ber, it is the duty of the pickets to fire a signal for their comrades and
closely \yatch the enemy's movements. As these troops have but recently
arrived in this district, and may be ignorant of existing orders, they are
warned that if another groundless alarm is given the pickets will be
court-martialed. If sufficient courage is not shown in watching the
enemy pickets will be subject to the charge of cowardice and to be tried
by court-martial.
By order of Brigadier-General Walker :
JAMES LOWNDES,
Captain and Acting Assistant Adjutant- General.
[Inclosure No. 3.]
CIRCULAR.] HEADQUARTERS THIRD MIL. DIST.,
Pocotaligo, March 27, 18G3.
The attention of planters and other slave-holders in this military dis
trict is called to the following communication from department head
quarters :
CHAP. XXVI.] UNION RAID ON THE COMBAHEE RIVER, S. C. 2 13
HDQRS. DEPARTMENT SOUTH CAROLINA, GEORGIA, AND FLORIDA,
Charleston, S. C., March '23, 1863.
GENERAL : It is the wish of the commanding general that you advise all planters
and owners of negroes in your military district to remove their negroes as far as prac
ticable into the interior of the State, as otherwise they aro liable to be lost at any
moment.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
JNO. F. O'BRIEN,
Captain and Assistant Adjutant-General.
By order of Brigadier-General Walker :
JAMES LOWSTDES,
Captain and Acting Assistant Adjutant- General.
No. 2.
Report ofMaj. W. P. Emanuel, Fourth South Carolina Cavalry.
HDQRS. TROOPS BETWEEN ASHEPOO AND COMBAHEE,
June 6, 1803.
Capt. JAMES LOWNDES,
Acting Assistant Adjutant- General :
CAPTAIN : On the morning of the 2d of June the pickets reported to
me that three gunboats had arrived at Field's Point and were lauding
a force. In a few minutes after a courier reported that a gunboat was
within 1£ miles of the pontoon bridge over the Combahee liiver. I im
mediately ordered Captain Godbold to send a detachment of 20 men,
under -Lieutenant Gilchrist, to Field's Point to check the advance of
the enemy arid harass them as much as possible. Captain Godbold,
with the balance of his men, was ordered to remain at Stokes' Cause
way to support two pieces of Captain Bomar's artillery which had been
ordered to take position there. Lieutenant Breeden was ordered to take
his company to Mr. Heyward's plantation, near the pontoon bridge, to
prevent the enemy landing in that direction. Two pieces of Captain
Bomar's artillery were also ordered there, but before arriving there Lieu
tenant Hendrix informed me that he had just heard from a reliable
source that the gunboat had passed the bridge and was going on up
toward the railroad bridge. I immediately ordered Lieutenant Heii-
dricks to turn back with two pieces and take a position so as to prevent
the enemy from reaching the railroad. Lieutenant Breeden reported
he arrived at Mr. Heyward's place within one hour after the picket's re
port from the pontoon bridge had been received, and found the build
ings on that place and Mr. Lowndes' in flames, and the enemy, about
60 strong, retiring to their boat. One gunboat was at that time at the
bridge. Lieutenant Breeden opened fire upon them, which was kept
up until they got under cover of their guns, when he retired to the cover
of the woods from their shell. I arrived on the ground shortly after
and found the enemy retiring to their boat, which was then lying at the
bridge. I also learned that another party of about the same number had
landed from another boat below on Mr. Lowndes' place, Mr. Lowndes'
overseer came down and informed me that some of his negroes were try
ing to escape. I immediately ordered a portion of Lieutenant Breeden's
company to go with the overseer to prevent their leaving, who succeeded
in bringing back about 30. The balance of the company remained tit the
foot of the causeway to watch the boat, which still remained at the bridge.
After moving dowii the river about half a mile and back to the bridge
294 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVI.
for several times she finally moved down the river about half a mile
below Mr. Lowndes' and anchored, when I moved Lieutenant Breeden's
company down to Mr. Lowndes7. Shortly alter getting to Mr. Lowndes'
place 1 received intelligence from Captain Godbold that the enemy were
advancing in force toward Stokes7 Causeway. I left Lieutenant Breeden
to follow the boats along the banks of the river, with instructions to join
the main body after the boats had passed below the causeway, and, pro
curing a guide, I proceeded to Stokes7 Causeway. Before reaching the
causeway I received intelligence that the advance guard had driven those
of the enemy within Mr. Middleton's mill. Arriving at the causeway I
found that Captains Godbold and Bomarhad advanced toward Middle-
ton's mill to dislodge the enemy. I overtook Captain Bomar7s battery
a short distance beyond the causeway and ordered him to proceed as
rapidly as possible. Before reaching the mill, however, a courier re
ported that the enemy had evacuated and fired the mill and had taken
to their boats. I understood that Captain Godbold had gone to attack
them at Field's Point. I soon after heard firing in that direction, and
I supposed Captain Godbold had engaged them. I ordered Captain
Bomar to move down to Tar Bluff. I and Captain Bomar arrived there
in advance, when we discovered a boat lying not far from the bluff,
which left just before the artillery came up. I then ordered them to
Field's Point to try to cut off the boat. On arriving at the road leading
straight down to Field's Point we found ourselves almost surrounded
by the enemy, who opened fire in every direction, except the way we
came from. Thinking that Captain Godbold7s men had tired into them
through mistake I rode into the road, and looking down toward Field's
Point I discovered a gunboat had taken a position so as to command
the causeway. On turning around on my horse to look after Captain
Bomar, who had been fired into, I and Lieutenant Hewitt, who were in
the road, were fired into again from almost every direction. Upon look
ing around I discovered a good many negroes standing in the edge of
the swamp, commanded by one white man. I ordered the artillery to
fire into them. After firing into them several times, not knowing the
enemy's force or position, the woods being very dense, I ordered the
artillery to move back in the direction of Tar Bluff. After arriving near
Tar Bluff' I met with Lieutenant Breeden, with his command, who had
just arrived. I immediately ordered Lieutenant Edens to take a part
of Lieutenant Breeden's command and scour the woods down to Field's
Point. Lieutenant Breeden was ordered around with the remainder of
his command to take the main road leading to Field's Point, which he
did, and arrived at or near there about sundown. Lieutenant Edens
arrived before him, and on their arrival there they could see nothing of
the enemy, as they had retired. Captain Godbold states that he had
attacked the enemy at the same point we were fired into and had driven
them back, when they commenced shelling from their b6ats. When he
moved back to secure his horses the enemy advanced again, and I sup
pose Captain Godbold was with his horses when we were fired into.
In regard to the number of boats I cannot say with any certainty,, as
the reports conflict; some of the pickets report they saw three, others
but two. If there were three, one must have remained at Field's Point
all day. If it had not been for our ignorance of the country and of the
position of the enemy at Field's Point we might have succeeded in
capturing the greater portion of the enemy that landed there.
We only had one man wounded. I am not able to say what damage
was done to the enemy. I have been informed that the most of the
property near the river from Field's Point to Combahee Bridge has
CHAP. XXVI.] UNION RAID ON THE COMBAHEE BIVER, 8. C. 295
been burnt. I cannot say with any certainty as to the number of
negroes that escaped, but suppose it to be between 500 and GOO.
Please find inclosed the officer's reports.
I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
W. P. EMANUEL,
Major, Commanding.
Capt. JAMES LOWNDISS,
Acting Assistant Adjutant- General.
No. 3.
Report of Capt. H. Godbold, Fourth South Carolina Cavalry.
GEEEN POND, June 6, 1863.
MAJOR: Agreeably to orders, on the morning of June 2 (instant) I
proceeded to Stokes' Causeway to meet the enemy, who was said then
to be marching in a direction for Green Pond. I remained there until
about 1 or 2 o'clock, when I received information that the enemy were
burning- houses as they advanced, and hearing at the same time a dis
charge of small-arms in a direction for Middleton's mill, supposing the
firing to be Lieutenant Gilchrist, who was sent with an advance guard,
I immediately proceeded in that direction to re-enforce him. On arriv
ing at Mr. Middleton's place I met with Lieutenant Gilchrist, who in
formed me that the enemy had set fire to the mill and gone aboard of
his boats, the boats moving down the river. I forthwith moved with
the command in a direction for Field's Point. Not being acquainted
with the localities of the country I advanced wifii my command mounted.
I soon found that I was in range of their gunboats, my picket at the same
time encountering the enemy's pickets, driving them from their post.
Here, amidst a furious fire of shell from the enemy's gunboats, I ordered
my command to secure their horses out of the immediate range of their
shell, dismount, and advance on the enemy. Just about this time 1
received orders to report with my command at Tar Bluff. Soon after
I reported there the enemy ceased firing from their boats, and I was
informed had moved off and all was quiet.
I am, major, your most obedient servant,
H. GODBOLD,
Captain Company F.
Maj. W. P. EMANUEL.
No. 4.
Report of Lieut. P. L. Breeden, Fourth South Carolina Cavalry.
GAMP GREGG, S. 0., June 6, 1803.
MAJOR : I have the honor to report that on the 2d day of June, 1803,
about 7 o'clock a. in., I was ordered by yourself to take my command
and proceed to Col. W. C. Heyward's plantation, on Combahee River,
near the pontoon bridge, to prevent the enemy from advancing out on
the causeway to Colonel Heyward's settlement; but on approaching
Colonel Heyward's place I saw immense volumes of smoke, and on
arriving at the upper end of the colonel's settlement I discovered a
296 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVI.
considerable number of liis buildings enveloped in flames. I met the
picket near the upper end of Colonel Hey ward's settlement. I inquired
the location and number of the enemy. They could not inform me of
the location, but stated they were at least GO strong. I immediately
threw out skirmishers, when I took the remainder of my command and
advanced cautiously down the main road, endeavoring to get a position
at a small breastwork near the end of the causeway, which I succeeded
in doing; but on my arrival there I discovered the enemy retiring on
the causeway toward their boat, which was lying near the pontoon
bridge in such a position as to command the causeway. The enemy's
vanguard was some 300 yards distant. I ordered my men to open tire
on them, which I kept up until they were entirely under cover and pro
tection of their guns. When we opened fire the enemy returned it, re
tiring. The enemy proceeded to shell us rapidly for a short while. I
fell back under cover of the woods, &c.7 at which time you arrived on
the ground.
I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
P. L. BKEEDEK,
Lieutenant, Comdg. Company E, Fourth Regiment.
Maj. W. P. EMANUEL.
No. 5.
Report of Lieut. A. E. Oilehrist, Fourth South Carolina Cavalry.
• GREEN POND, S. C., June G, 18G3.
MAJOR : Agreeably to orders, on the morning of the 2d instant I pro
ceeded with 20 men as an advance guard on the direct road to Field's
Point uu: il I arrived at Middleton's plantation, some 4 miles from the
Point, where I came up to the last picket. I inquired of him of the
whereabouts of the enemy. His report to me was that he was within
1£ miles of him, on the main road from Green Pond to Field's Point.
Not knowing the locality of the country, I dismounted my command and
took Mr. Middleton's negro driver as a pilot. My design was to get in
his rear and cut him off from his gunboats. After proceeding about a
mile on the right, from the road that leads from Green Pond to Field's
Point, I found the enemy strongly posted in Mr. Middleton's mill-house,
on the bank of the Coinbahee. I drove in all of his pickets and ad
vanced within 200 yards of the mill-huuse. I found that his force was
much superior to mine and that I could not dislodge him from his posi
tion. I then posted a picket on the right, left, and center of the house,
and kept him in his position until one of the gunboats came down the
river and took him off. I then marched my command back to the road
leading from Green Pond to Field's Point, when in a few minutes Cap
tain Godbold came up with the remainder of his company and took com
mand. In the skirmish at the mill all of my command behaved with
credit to themselves and their country's cause.
I am, major, with the highest respect, your obedient servant,
A. E. GILOHK1ST,
Lieutenant, Commanding Advance Guard.
Maj. W. P. EMANUEL.
CHAP. XXVI.] UNION RAID OX THE COMBAHEE RIVER, S. C. 297
No. G.
Report of Lieut. William E. Hewitt, Fourth South Carolina Cavalry.
CHISOLMVILLE, S. C., June 5, 18G3.
On the morning of the 2d June it was reported to me by one of the
men on post at Field's Point that two Yankee boats had anchored off
and in about 100 yards of the guard-house ; arrived there about 4 o'clock
in the morning. I received the news from there about 5.30 o'clock and
immediately sent a dispatch to report to you, and before my courier got
out of my sight I discovered a second one coming to report ami called
him back — that is my courier — and got the report of the second, which
was that the Yankees had landed men and were on the march, and as
soon as my courier returned I left him in charge of the guard-house at
Ohisolmville and at one proceeded to Field's Point to ascertain the
position and strength of the enemy; but when I arrived at Middleton's
place I found that the picket had fallen back to that place, and ascer
tained of him, to the best of his knowledge, of the whereabouts of the
enemy, at the same time saying that the enemy was at Middleton's mill,
and as soon as I could learn what they were up to I immediately re
ported. I also found Lieut. A. E. Gilchrist, with a detachment of 20
men as advance guard, who was iu pursuit of them.
I am. major, your obedient servant.
W. E. HEWITT,
Lieutenant, Commanding Guard.
Maj. W. P. EMANUEL.
No. 7.
Report of Capt. W. L. Trenholm, Rutledge Mounted Rifles and Horse
Artillery.
CAMP RUTLEDGE M'T'D RIFLEMEN AND HOKSE ARTY.,
McMiersonville, June 4, 1803.
CAPTAIN : I have the honor to report that on the morning of the 2cl
instant I was ordered by the brigadier-general commanding to proceed
to Green Pond Station with Captain Wescoat's and my command, con
sisting of three companies of Eleventh South Carolina Volunteers, Capt.
J. J. Wescoat commanding, 150 men ; two [companies] Rntledge Mount
ed Riflemen and Horse Artillery, of which there were dismounted, under
Lieut. W. H. Jefters, 57 men, and mounted, under Capt, J. J. Magee, 31
men, making in all, and exclusive of hospital attendants, 247 men, and
to co-operate with Major Emanuel in whatever manner circumstances
might point out as most advisable.
I reached Green Pond at about 2 o'clock p. m., and learning that the
force originally at that post was disposed thus, viz, two guns of Captain
Bomar's battery and one company of cavalry in the direction of Stokes
and Field's Point, two guns of same battery at Salkehatchie bridge,
and the other company of cavalry, under Major Emanuel himself, near
Combahee Ferry, I ordered Captain Magee to move forward rapidly t
Stokes', and to support the forces opposing the enemy's demoustral
from Field's Point. I put the infantry in motion in the same directi ra,
and sent Captain De Saussure, of the brigade staft, who had been assigned
298 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVL
to duty with me, to communicate with Major Einanuel, and also seQt a
mounted detachment to establish a line of estafettes between the Oom-
bahee road and that by which my command was advancing, and took
post myself for the time at the terminus of that line, about 3 miles above
Stokes'. The latest information from Major Emanuel was that the
enemy was advancing in force from Field's Point and their vessels were
still lying near Combahee Ferry. My intention was to attack vigor
ously the force near Field's Point, and if successful in defeating them
to post the artillery at Tar Bluff to intercept the return of the enemy's
vessels, and to assist Major Emanuel by sending a detachment up tne
river road. Had my command reached Green Pond at noon I have
reason to believe that this could have been done, and that the enemy
would have been well punished for his atrocities. At 2.45 p. m. I re
ceived a message from Captain Magee that he had information from
Madame Tadini that there were large fires in the direction of Chisolm-
ville. and fearing that the enemy, while attracting our attention at other
points, was arriving at the Asheppo Bridge, I considered it proper to
delay the infantry and to send Sergeant Barn well with a mounted force
to ascertain the condition of things beyond the Oheeba. In this recon
naissance he experienced a vexatious and unexpected delay in conse
quence of the removal of the bridges on the most direct route, am| it
was not until 5.30 p. m. that he returned and reported everything quiet.
I then pushed on, but on reaching a point about a mile beyond Stokes'
met Major Emanuel's command returning to cainp, and learned from
the officers that the enemy had retired to their vessels and that the
latter had gone below Field's Point. I accordingly allowed my com
mand to seek shelter from the descending rain around Stokes', and re
mained there for the night, so reporting to the brigadier-general com
manding, who had meanwhile arrived at Green Pond, and to whom I
had previously sent Captain De Saussure to explain the position of
affairs.
On the 3d instant I brought my command back to McPhersouville,
where it arrived at midnight. I take pleasure in bearing testimony to
the zeal and efficiency of the officers and the very orderly conduct and
cheerful endurance of the men under my command. I made careful
inquiry, and could ascertain no injury done to private property by their
presence except the burning of a few rails at Mrs. Girardeau's planta
tion on the night of the 2d instant, and this I consider fully authorized
by the state of the weather and the impossibility of procuring other
fuel. I felt my usefulness and security very much increased by the
accurate information of the country derived from Corpl. E. H. Barn-
well and Private H. M. Stuart, of B. V. A., who accompanied me, and
also by the use of an excellent map from district headquarters.
Very respectfully, captain, your obedient servant,
W. L. TRENHOLM,
R. N. E. and H. A., Captain, Commanding Expedition.
Capt. JAMES LOWNDES, A. A. A. G., Third District.
No. 8.
Eeport of Capt. John F. Lay, C. 8. Army, Inspector of Cavalry.
HDQRS. DEPT. SOUTH CAROLINA, GEORGIA, AND FLORIDA,
Charleston, 8. C., June 24, 1863.
GENERAL : In obedience to orders from department headquarters I
CHAP. XXVI] UNION RAID ON THE COMBAHEE RIVER, S. C. 299
have visited the scene and made investigation of the facts connected
with the recent Abolition raid upon the Combahee River and the atro
cious conduct of the enemy engaged in it, and have to submit the fol
lowing report of facts, gathered from every available source:
Some three or four weeks preceding the 2d day of June, 1863 (the day
of the raid), Major Emanuel, with his squadron of cavalry, of Kutledge's
regiment of cavalry, who had been previously stationed near George
town, in the Fourth Military District of South Carolina, reported un
der orders for duty with his regiment in the Third Military District of
South Carolina, and was ordered by Brigadier-General Walker, com
manding, to take position and command of the post at Green Pond, on
the Charleston and Savannah Railroad, between the Combahee and Ashe-
poo Rivers. He was by special order directed to acquaint and familiar
ize himself and officers with the localities and lines of defense in the dis
trict of country under his command, and for that purpose was furnished
with an accurate map of the country. (See Inclosure A.) Instructions
for picket duty were furnished him, ordering pickets, even if few in
number, to engage the enemy, and at all events to fire signals and re
tire, closely watching the movements of the enemy. (See Exhibit B.)*
His special attention was very soon thereafter called to an extract from
an Abolition paper giving intimation of some projected raid by the
enemy's forces from Hilton Head, He was cautioned to increased vigi
lance, and received general instructions in view of an engagement with
them. (See Inclosure C.) About this same time a written notice was
given to the adjacent planters advising the removal of their negro
property to the interior. Major Emanuel had also with him Captafn
Bomar's company of light artillery.
On the morning of the 2d of June, 1863, Major Emauuel being with his
command at Green Pond, and having a picket force at Field's Point of
6 men, in charge of Corpl. H. H. Newton, Company E, and another force
at Combahee Ferry, on the pontoon bridge, of 5 men, in charge of Corpl.
W. D. Wall, Company F, about 7 a. m. a courier from Lieutenant He wit,
commander of outposts, stationed at Chisolmville, reached the camp,
informing Major Emanuel that three gunboats were at Field's Point
landing troops, and a few moments after another courier,- stating that
a gunboat was steaming up the Combahee River and was within 1 to 1£
miles of the pontoon bridge.
Lance-Corporal Newton, chief of the Field's Point picket, states that
about 3 a. m. of the 2d June, 1863, he first saw two steamers about 2
miles in the river or sound below Field's Point; that the night was bright
and he could see a long distance; he watched them until they came neat ;
he then mounted his men and fell back about 300 yards, dismounted, and
leaving the horses went back to the Point. He saw them land from 8
to 12 men, who went up the bank of the river, and he also heard them
launch other boats. He immediately sent off a courier with the informa
tion to Lieutenant Hewitt, commander of outposts at Chisolmville, abook
10 miles distant, and soon after sent off another courier. The party
which had landed then took a road leading to the rear of him, anil hav
ing only 5 men left with him he felt compelled to retire, especially as
their arms were inferior and unreliable. He fell back some 300 yards.
The enemy, being re-enforced, saw him and advanced up the causeway,
having 2 white men in advance, the others marching by fours, but can
not say how many there were. Sending off another courier he still re
tired, the enemv following for 1J miles to the cross-roads, he keeping
them in sight. " There was no firing on either side. Beyond
*See Inclosure No. 2 to Walker's report, p. 292.
300 COASTS OF s. a, GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. xxvi.
the enemy did not advance, and lie, continuing to fall back, lost sight of
them and saw them no more. Soon he was met by the detachment un
der Lieutenant Gilchrist and reported to him. Lieutenant Gilchrist
then went on toward Tar Blufl', leaving him in charge of Ihe horses,
and soon after he heard firing from that direction.
Corporal Wall, chief of picket at Combahee Ferry, states that about
6 or 6.30 a. ra. on the 2d June, 1863, a steamer came in sight of his post
at the pontoon bridge; that he immediately sent a courier to Major
Emanuel at his camp; he mounted his men, and as they crossed the
bridge he saw a fire some distance down the river, but upon whose plan
tation he cannot say. As they passed over the long causeway leading
from the bridge to Col. W. C. Hey ward's they were fired on twice from
the boat ; when they reached the upper end of the causeway they saw
the boat approach the bridge and land a, force. He then sent another
courier to Major Emanuel to inform him that the enemy were lauding.
A party of 25 or 30 who had landed did not approach the causeway, but
marched up and down the bank under a flag. He sent one of his men
around to the plantation of Mr. Charles Lowndes to ascertain if any
party had landed there, and leaving one man at the head of the causeway,
near to a breastwork, he galloped to Colonel Iley ward's residence to in
form him and to ask if he could render any assistance to get his ne
groes off. He then returned and saw the enemy marching up the cause
way, 50 or 60 strong, of which number about 10 were whites only. He
remained on horseback until they came within 500 yards, and then re
tired with his comrade to dismount, tie their horses, return to the breast
work, and tire on them, but hearing the picket sent to Mr. Lowndes' fire,
and supposing that a party was in his rear, ho did not return, but fell
back, and was joined by another man from camp, who took charge of
the horses. He watched and saw the party come up nearly to the breast
work and turn in at the gate leading to the residence of Colonel Hey-
ward, and also saw them when they commenced firing the buildings.
A party of them went on toward the negro houses; he followed with
his com rude and was fired on by them, and he returned the fire at
about 300 yards. (This picket was armed with Entield rifles, and this
was the first time that they had fired at all, except Corporal Wall
states that when fired on from the boat as he crossed the bridge he
fired in return. Colonel Hey ward states that this is not a fact.) He
retired back upon the road and saw the company under Lieutenant
Breeden approaching; leaving his comrade he dashed to meet him, to
urge him to come up at full speed. He (Lieutenant Breeden) came up
promptly to where he (Wall) had left his comrade, dismounted his men,
and sent out scouts, delaying some twenty minutes, and then moved on
cautiously to the breastwork; when he reached there the enemy were
retreating down the causeway, some 300 yards distant, with the' stolen
negroes in advance of them (Capt, L. l)e Saussure, of staff of Brigadier-
General Walker, states that Wall told him the stolen negroes were in
rear of them, scattered along the causeway, and that when they fired
these negroes scattered to the right and left). Lieutenant Breedeu fired
on them; they ran, then rallied and returned the fire. He did not ad
vance or pursue them. Very soon the boat left, and Lieutenant Breeden
with his command moved toward Field's Point. As we approached we
heard firing there, and when we reached there, riding slowly, the enemv
had gone.
Corporal Wall denies a conversation as reported to have been held
by him with Mr. Hughes, the overseer of Colonel Heyward, as will be
hereinafter given, but says that he told Mr. Hughes that when Lieu-
CHAI-. XXVI.] UNION RAID ON THE COMBAHEE RIVER, S. C. 301
tenant Breeden approached to within 500 yards of the breastworks his
am given oat; I can't run ;» that he also stated that they had not been
far, and that they knew nothing of the country or course of the river,
and that they had no sabers with them.
John D. Sanders (who, with Privates Lumpkin and Leigh tley and
Lieutenant Brunson, of Capt. T. G. Allen's company of State troops,
the Combahee Rangers, was at the farm of Mr. William Middleton, on
the opposite side of the river from Colonel Heyward's and immediately
at the ferry) states that Lieutenant Brunson went to the stable about
6.20 a. m. on the 2d June, 1863, and called to us that a gunboat was in
sight ; we could see it from the stable. We saddled up, and Lieutenant
Brunson, leaving us, rode off to inform Mr. Blake. Leightley, who had
charge of the negro dogs, also rode off with them. Lumpkin and I re
mained until the boat came to the bridge and landed some men upon
the plantation. He saw the picket from the ferry crossing the bridge
just before the boat came up, which discharged two small pieces, sup
posed to be 6 pounder guns. About 30 or 40 who landed took a path
across the field to the house — chiefly white men ; indeed noticed no ne
groes — and none of them had arms. Wre were only 300 yards from
them, and they must have seen us. We retired and rode off toward
Mr. Blake's, through the woods, and met Lieutenant Brunson, Mr.
Blake, and a few others. We remained three or four hours, endeavor
ing to keep between Blake's negroes and the gunboat. While there
we could see the Yankees and negroes crossing the road, until, seeing
none, some of us rode back to Mr. Middleton's. The enemy had all
left, but the boat was still at the bridge. We saw some of Blake's ne
groes endeavoring to get to the ferry ; we went back to the road to get
the dogs and cut them off; some of the negroes turned back. The en
emy had burned all the buildings at Mr. Middleton's and taken off the
negroes. When we returned the boats had left. We went down with
Bell, the scout, and when we had passed the ferry we saw that the
bridge was on fire, but not badly ; we turned back and put it out, and
endeavored to collect the scattered negroes of Mr. Blake. At 6 a. in.
two of the pickets came up from the ferry to water their horses at the
well. They gave us no notice, and we knew nothing further from them
until we saw them crossing the bridge. The Cotton Hope picket had
a few moments before they crossed the bridge informed the ferry picket
that a boat was in the river ; we saw the other steamers lower down in
the river. Mr. Lumpkin, Leightley, and Lieutenant Brunson support
this statement. (See Inclosure E.)
Mr. Hughes (overseer for Col. W. C. Heyward) states that he had a
conversation with Corporal Wall on the Wednesday succeeding the
raid: that he accused the picket at the ferry of having been asleep ;
that Wall denied this, but admitted that they ought to have discovered
and reported the steamers sooner than they did. Wall also stated that
when, after the enemy, 20 in number, all negroes except one had
marched up the causeway, he dashed back to meet the troops he sup
posed were coming down. By that time he found them, under Lici
ant Breeden, about three-fourths of a mile back upon the road halted
near to Colonel Hevward's corn field; that he at once stated
facts to Lieutenant Breeden, and told him if he would charge down the
road to the gate he would bag the whole party ; that it ; would be impos
sible for them to escape; to which the reply was, "Well, I don't know;
CMSBS OP * C* CUU, AOT
• ;
'-'-.
XXVI.] UNION RAID ON THE COMBAIIEE RIVER, 8. C. 303
cotfld pilot him through a thick piece of woods around to the barn -yard
without being seen, thereby cutting off the enemy and saving the m-
graes. Lieutenant Breeden replied that he was then under the orders
of Major Emanuel and could not send them, but that he must go to the
m^jor, down at the head of the causeway (he had passed while Pipkin
was absent in the plantation). He went at full speed to Major Emanuel
and stated all the facts to him. Major replied he expected the enemy
to land on the causeway and that he wanted all his forces. After a
few moments' delay he told me to go back and tell Lieutenant Breeden
to give me G men, but to return them as soon as 1 could. He went back
and got these men. They went with him very slowly. He could not
get them out of a walk. When inside of the plantation he met Sergeant
Smith and 1 man, which, with his party and the 2 men he had left, gave
him 10 in all. He still left 2 to guard the street and went on with the
8, Sergeant Smith being in command. When he reached the point at
which to leave their horses only 5 of the 8 were with him ; others had
dropped off'. Here 1 remained to hold the horses, and another, riding
a stallion, could not link him, and refusing to tie him, he also remained.
With the 3 men left him he (Pipkin) went on to within 150 yards of the
barn. The enemy and greater portion of negroes had left and were on
their way to the boat. Here another man left, although the sergeant
ordered him to remain. With the remaining 2 he turned on to the canal
and went to the flood-gate, from which was a straight path to the boat
which was taking in the negroes, and another bank, at right angles from
the mill, upon which were a good many negroes then passing. He wanted
to go down and cut off' these negroes, but Sergeant Smith and comrade
advised against it, saying he would be killed from the boat. Here he
picked up 5 negroes going down, and as soon as the boat moved off from
the landing he saw a negro girl going down. He left the sergeant and
comrade with these negroes and ran down within 125 yards of the land
ing and within 90 yards of this girl, and saw 25 or 30 negroes who had
not been taken on board, but who were making toward the boat at Mr.
Sickol's landing. He ordered the girl to stop ; she refusing, he shot her
down; she got up and ran to where the others were; they all stopped;
he ran up to them and brought them back to the sergeant. When he
fired he was fired upon from the boat with small-arms. The horses and
men were then sent for; the horses came, but men reported back to
the lieutenant. He then, with assistance of Sergeant Smith and com
rade, carried these negroes back to the street, and after riding about
the plantation for some time, looking for any scattered negroes, he re
turned, and found Lieutenant Breeden and command at the stable in
the shade. Major Emanuel here came up and sent Mr. Lowry (over
seer for Mrs. Mason Smith) as a guide, with Lieutenant Breeden. order
ing him with his command to keep close to the river and wat< h
movements of the boats, keeping on toward Field's Point.
Emanuel took him (Pipkin) as a guide with him to Stokes* Causeway
and thence to Field's Point, and on the way met a courier from Lieu
tenant He wit and passed beyond the causeway about 2 miles into :
Middleton's field, where were some old works: here they found a pwtt*
of artillery, under Captain Bomar, halted. (One piece was at i
Causeway.) Captain Bomar stated that he had received a i
Lieutenant Hewitt, stating that he had run a party of the enemy i
Mr. Middleton's mill, about 1 mile above Tar Bluff, and that he v
a piece of artillery to rim them out. Captain Bomar also s
he had not advanced because he was entirely unsupported
to risk his piece without support. At this point a courier
304 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVI.
reported that two gunboats bad dropped down to the mill, taken their
men on board, and were then lying off Tar Bluff. Major Emanuel then
innvod the niece of artillery to Mr. Middleton's gate and left it there,
moved the piece
and with hi
miles). As
and with his party (4 in number) moved on to Tar Bluff (distance, 2
^s thev went down heard shelling at Field's Point; went on
boat moved off down the river; waited fifteen or twenty minutes and
artillery came up. Major Emanuel then took it, unsupported except by
his small party, and took a rear road to Field's Point; when about half
way found he was surrounded by the enemy in ambush on both sides
of the road, delivering a cross-fire and wounding Fripp (who has since
died from his wounds). The piece of artillery fired four shots, and then
Major Emanuel ordered a retreat and fell back to Tar Bluff. A few
moments after reaching there Lieutenant Breeden and his command
came up. After a delay of fifteen minutes a squad of his men were
sent down to Field's Point by the rear road, while the rest marched by
the main road. Here Mr. Pipkin states that he left them, but was told
when the party reached the point the enemy had left.
From these statements, and from the reports sent in, it appears that
on the 2d June, 1863, at 7 a. m., Major Emanuel received notice of the
presence of these boats in the Combahee River; that he at once com
municated with district headquarters and made the following disposi
tion of the troops at his command : Captain Godbold was ordered to
send Lieutenant Gilchrist with a detachment of 20 men to Field's Point,
whilst he with the rest of his company would repair to Stokes' Cause
way to support two pieces of Bomar's artillery, ordered to take position
there. Lieutenant Breedeu, with his company, was ordered to the plan
tation of Colonel Heyward, near to Combahee Ferry. The remaining
two pieces of Bomar's artillery were also ordered to this point, where
they would have proved most serviceable, but Major Emanuel, influ
enced by incorrect information, riot reliable, reported to him through
Lieutenant Hendrix, and from a total want of acquaintance with the
country and its localities countermanded this order and sent these
pieces around 10 miles to protect the Salkehatchie Railroad Bridge,
which point was only 5 miles from the district headquarters, and en
tirely protected by those forces, from which he (Major Emanuel) would
expect support and re-enforcements. He thus committed the serious
error of materially weakening his small force to guard a point well pro
tected by troops much nearer. The first disposition of his forces by Major
Emanuel seems to have been judicious, and should have been attended,
if properly carried out, with better results, but with the first error re
sulted others. From this point there seems to have been confusion of
counsel, indecision, and great tardiness of movement, an entire want
of active and vigorous enterprise, without which, while they followed
after the movements of the enemy, they nether opposed nor disturbed
them in their work of wicked destruction. The causes are many. This
command of Major Emanuel has not been properly drilled, disciplined,
or taught by him, so as to be effective upon an emergency. His system
of outposts is loose awl men and officers badly instructed. On this
occasion his pickets were neither watchful nor brave; they allowed the
enemy to come up to them almost unawares, and then retreated without
offering resistance or firing a gun, allowing a parcel of negro wretches,
calling themselves soldiers, with a few degraded whites, to march un
molested, with the incendiary torch, to rob, destroy, and burn a large
CJHAP. XXVI.] UNION RAID ON THE COMBAHEE RIVER, S. C. 3()5
section of country. The few men composing the picket at Combahee
.berry, taking position at the breastwork at the head of the causeway
and tiring down it, would have kept at bay a larger force than came to
Colonel Keyword's, or at least would have delayed it until aid should
reach them to drive them back to their boats, and would, from their
position, have been in little actual danger from the shell of the enemy
(1J miles distant); indeed this work was almost a complete protection
to them and to the party of Lieutenant Breeden, who, according to his
report, retired from it when the boats commenced shelling. No com
missioned officer seems to have been within reach of them to aid and
advise them, and Lieutenant Hewitt, who, upon receiving notice from
the courier, should have promptly repaired to them for that purpose,
appears from his own report to have lost that valuable time in await
ing the return of his courier from Major Emanuel. It is difficult to get
at any accurate history of the detailed movements of the separate com
mands, except Lieutenant Breeden's; the reports of the commanders
are very brief. The only successful effort made seems to have been
the driving of a party of the enemy into Mr. Middleton's mill, and they
were allowed to escape for want of support to an artillery piece, which
eventually came near losing that piece, and would doubtless have so
resulted had the enemy been enterprising; and Captain Godbold re
ports having driven the enemy to the cover of their boats, and yet that
enemy is found in ambush, to fire upon a small party in advance of the
position to which Captain Godbold had retired, too remote to be in
sound of the tire, or at least to render assistance to the small party of
Major Emaiiuel in the engagement from which he retired, and which
it also seems started the enemy back to their boats.
The statements of witnesses, if to be credited, reflect most severely
upon the conduct of Lieutenant Breeden and his command. From an
accurate and searching investigation of the facts from every available
source and from an accurate examination of the localities and positions
it is my duty to report the results of this raid as mortifying and humili
ating to our arms, and while I do not believe that from the time the
reports reached the camp the property of Messrs. Mckols and Kirkland
and other gentlemen low down on the river could have been saved, nor
could the forces of Major Emaiiuel have averted the destruction at Mr.
William Middleton's, yet that of Colonel Heyward and Mr. Charles
Lowudes, with intelligent and bold activity on the part of these forces,
I think would have been saved or a great portion of it. The artillery
at Tar Bluff, supported by one company of cavalry and the other com
pany active in squads against the various small and scattered raiding
parties, would have resulted, I am forced to think, in the preservation
of much valuable private property and in the severe punishment of the
enemy.
From reports which I could not very clearly follow up it is by no
means certain that the Field's Point picket were not aware of the pres
ence of the boats the night preceding at or about 11 p. m., and failed
to give the notice, alleging that they had been cautioned against false
alarms, and thought they might be our own boats.
The Combahee Ferry picket should unquestionably have seen these
boats and given the notice from one to two hours sooner than reported
had they been alert and vigilant and properly instructed as to the course
of the river and the proper point of lookout.
Major Emanuel seems to have taken no fixed position, nor to have
commanded any portion of his troops, but to have moved unattended
20 n R— VOL xiv
306 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVI.
except by a small escort, too small to improve any opportunity presented
to him for action.
In accordance with instructions from department headquarters
charges have been prepared by me and preferred against Major Emanuel
and Lieutenants Breeden aiid Hewitt. Proper steps have also been
taken by Brigadier-General Walker to bring to trial the pickets at the
several points named. This course I feel satisfied will result in public
good.
This raid by a mixed party of blacks and degraded whites seems to
have been designed only for plunder, robbery, and destruction of pri
vate property ; in carrying it out they have disregarded all rules of
civilized war, and have acted more as fiends than human beings. For
tunately the planters had removed their families, who thus avoided
outrage and insult. The enemy seem to have been well posted as to the
character and capacity of our troops and their small chance of encount
ering opposition, and to have been well guided by persons thoroughly
acquainted with the river and the country. Their success was complete,
as evidenced by the total destruction of four line residences, six valua
ble mills, with many valuable out-buildings (the residence of Mr. Charles
Lowudes alone escaped), and large quantities of rice. They also suc
cessfully carried .off from 700 to 800 slaves of every age and sex. These
slaves, it is believed, were invited by these raiders to join them in their
fiendish work of destruction. The loss of Messrs. Nickols and Kirkland
was very great — an entire loss, including for the former a large and
choice library, valued at $15,000.
It is pertinent to add in this report that upon the receipt of the dis
patch at district headquarters prompt measures were taken by the
brigadier-general commanding to send troops to the proper points of
support as specially reported by him, and that with reference to his
system of outposts 1 found the most energetic measures in existence to
secure vigilance and to guard against surprise, both by the issuing of
instructions and the regular visiting of the different posts by Capt.
L. D. DelSaussure, most industrious and efficient in the discharge of
his duties as inspector of outposts.
Exhibit F* is a copy of a report of Captain De Saussure, who had
made a partial investigation of this raid before my arrival j his facts in
the main agree with mine.
Kespectfuily submitted.
J:NTO. F. LAY,
Assistant Adjutant- General and Inspector Cavalry.
Brig. Gen. THOMAS JORDAN, Chief of Staff, &c.
[Inclosuro A.]
HEADQUARTERS THIRD MILITARY DISTRICT,
McPhcrsonville, May 19, 1863.
Maj. W. P. EMANUEL, Commanding at Green Pond,, ;
MAJOR: The brigadier-general commanding directs me to say that
you will require the officers of your detachment to familiarize themselves
with the localities and lines of defense in the district of country under
your command, a ma]) of which will be sent to you.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
JxVMES LOWNDES,
,. Acting Assistant Adjutant- General.
* Only a fragment found.
CHAP. XXVI.] UNION RAID ON THE COMBAHEE RIVER, S. C. 307
[Inclosure C.]
CIRCULAR.] HEADQUARTERS THIRD MIL. DIST.,
McPhersonville, May 29, 1863.
Your attention is respectfully called to the following extract from a
late Yankee paper :
The New York Tribune says that the negro troops at Hilton Head, S. C., will soon
start upon an expedition, under the command of Colonel Montgomery, different in
many respects from any heretofore projected.
The Yankee papers have frequently indicated their movements, and
it would be well to be" on the lookout and consider your plan of opera
tions on the various routes of approach.
Should any number of negroes cross our lines for such purpose bold
ness and confidence will be sure of success against any disparity of
force.
Maneuver to get a body of troops in their rear to cut off their retreat,
and when they are routed the cavalry will pursue at a gallop, charging
as foragers should they take to the woods. Those taken prisoners will
be closely guarded and watched night and day by a large detail, and
turned over to the State authorities as soon as practicable.
By order of Brigadier- General Walker :
JAMES LOWNDES,
Captain and Acting Assistant Adjutant- General.
•[Inclosure D.]
Extract from inspection report of Col. John F. Lay, Inspector of Cavalry,
February 2, 1863.
These two companies (F and I) have composed for some time a por
tion of the command of Major Emanuel, who was absent from his com
mand upon the occasion of ray visit to his camp (to be hereafter re
ported). • I met him in Georgetown only a few hours. It is evident that
the command did not prosper under him ; they have not improved as
they should have clone, nor are they now actively engaged in the work
of improvement. Major Emanuel is not now immediately connected
with them. I am informed by the officers that they drill only twice a
week. They alleged as excuse heavy duties. Now, it will be seen from
this report that the duty is very light, and no reason exists why a regu
lar and systematic daily drill, mounted and dismounted, should not be
had. The companies are good companies, and only need this, under
efficient officers, to take their proper position.
*******
Eespectfully submitted.
JNO. F. LAY,
Adjutant and Inspector General.
[Inclosare E.]
Statement of William C. Heyward respecting the Combahee raid.
On Tuesday, June 2, 1863, at 6.15 a. m., servant knocked at door,
stating that the driver, who was with the hands at work in lower fields,
sent up word that there were three Yankee boats coming up the river.
308 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. ICiur. XXVI.
Immediately got up and sent word to him to bring up the hands and
take them back into the woods. On first going out could not see the
boats in consequence of a bend in the river. Took my glass, and. on
going about 100 yards from house saw a large ferry-boat, with United
States flag flying, upper deck crowded with people. She came up very
slowly; sent a small boat ashore; 7 men landed; walked to and from
causeway blowing a horn and waving a small flag. After standing and
watching boat and their proceedings for some time, say fifteen or twenty
minutes, the driver came up with the hands ; again gave the order
to him, " Take the hands back into the woods." Asked driver if
any of the pickets had passed up causeway to report; he replied, "No
one has passed up since I went down to work this morning." Exam
ined with glass carefully picket station at ferry; saw the horses stand
ing quietly hitched. Yankee boat at that time within 1J miles of them.
One of my hands then said, " Here they come." On my asking, " Who?"
he replied, "The pickets." On again looking down causeway saw 4
men coming up, one much ahead running his horse; two shots were fired
at them from boat. He came up to me and reported, "Yankee boats in
river." Told him that fact was known by me at least one hour since.
Asked why they were so slow in reporting. He said, "Ordered not
to report until we are certain of facts ; thought perhaps they might be
our boats." Asked if he was the first to start to give information ; he
said, "Yes." Asked if any one had gone to Pocotaligo; he said, "No."
Told him to hurry on to Green Pond for troops. During this time boat
kept coming up, but very slowly ; it was about three-fourths flood; she
passed safely the point where the torpedoes were placed, and finally
reached the bridge at the ferry, which they immediately commenced
cutting away; lauded, to all appearance, a small force at Mr. Middle-
ton's, and in a few minutes his buildings were in flames. On again
examining causeway carefully saw a body of men advancing in regular
order, double-file; watched them closely and counted ten files, or 20
men; did not observe that they were negroes; waited until they were
within 400 or 500 yards of gate, and no help coming, took horse and left
for Green Pond. About 3 miles from plantation met 9 men on horse
back, advancing slowly ; told them the state of things. Officer command
ing said he wished the company was with him. Observing the com
pany coming on about one-half mile off', told him of it; went on and,
meeting the company, told officer commanding the state of affairs below;
heard him give the order to trot or gallop. Then went on to Green
Pond and telegraphed to General Walker ; whilst doing so the artillery
company passed station on their way down. In a very few minutes
two pieces of artillery returned ; officer asked the road to Salkehatchie
Bridge ; told him it was 14 or 15 miles distant, and that General Walker
was only 5 or G miles from it ; said he was ordered to go there, and
started. Returned to plantation as fast as possible and found, as ex
pected, that the troops had been too late in getting down, the buildings
being in flames and the negroes gone or going oft' the causeway and
bridge when they arrived. On my return the boat was about one-
halt mile below the bridge ; do not think she ever passed up beyond it.
My negroes who were left report that the party coming up causeway
divided, part going off' to burn the mill, the 'rest coming on up to
dwelling house; they also state that there was but one white man, all
the rest negroes. They burnt every building on plantation except the
negro quarters.
WM. 0. HEY WARD.
CHAP. XXVI.] EXPEDITION FROM FORT PULASKI, GA. 309
JUNE 4, 1863.— Expedition from Fort Pulaski, Ga., to Bluffton, S, C.
REPORTS.
No. 1.— Lient. Col. Thomas H. Johnson, Third South Carolina Cavalry, commanding
post.
No. 2.— Capt. John F. Lay, Assistant Adjutant-General, C. S. Army, Inspector of
Cavalry.
Ko. 1.
Report of Lieut. Col. Thomas H. Johnson, Third South Carolina Cavalry,
commanding post.
HDQKS. DETACHMENT THIRD SOUTH CAROLINA CAVALRY,
Camp Lay, June 5, 1863.
CAPTAIN: I would respectfully report that on the morning of the 4th,
at 7 o'clock a. m., our pickets from Hunting Island, which is a part of
the main, from H to 2 miles below Bluffton by land and several miles
by water, in the direction of Buckingham Ferry, reported the enemy
landing at that place from three gunboats in considerable force anil
approaching toward Bluffton. I immediately ordered my force here
consisting of Companies A, B, and G, Third South Carolina Cavalry,
and Company B, Fourth South Carolina Cavalry, 182 men and G officers
present) to get in readiness, and after sending dispatches to Captains
E;irle, Smart, and Leadbetter (stationed at different places from G to 8
miles from here) for their commands to proceed immediately toward
Bluffton (unless there was a similar demonstration about Red Bluff),
I proceeded as rapidly as possible and arrived near Bluffton at about
8.30 o'clock, where 1 found a company of the Eleventh Regiment, about
50 strong. Bluffton is situated on May River, and is said to be 8 miles
from my camp. The situation and localities of it will be seen by referring
to the map of South Carolina. Hearing that two gunboats were at the
bluff and the enemy in the town I ordered this company (of the Eleventh
Regiment), under Lieutenant Smith, forward as skirmishers, and sent
two cavalrymen, dismounted, in advance as scouts.
On the outskirts of the town, in the road, they came in contact with
a body of the enemy advancing, which they fired upon and received
their tire in return. The company of the Eleventh Regiment advanc
ing (while the cavalry were dismounting to support them), exchanged
several shots, after which, contrary to my instructions, fell back, until
the cavalry could arrive in supporting distance. All then pressed for
ward; the' company of the Eleventh Regiment in advance, under com
mand of Captain Mickler (who had arrived). The smoke arising in
different parts of the town showed that it had been fired. He pushed
on by the flames under a continuous tire from their gunboats; arrived
at the bank of the river as the last of them were passing the bend of
the river below.
Captain Mickler, with 25 or 30 men, hurried down to cut them off, and
as they would pass quite near fire upon them, but he arrived too late ;
they had passed beyond reach.
We stopped as far as possible the further progress of the flames,
suppose one-half or two-thirds of the town has been destroyed, including
some of the best buildings, which appear to have been selected.
A large portion of the force, which as far as we could judge was
about a regiment, disembarked at Hunting Island, and marched across
310 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVL
that neck of land to the town. The boats followed around the run
and received them at the bluff, while two other boats lay off in shelling
distance.
A great number of shell and some grape were thrown from the time
we fired on them. One sergeant of the company of the Eleventh Regi
ment was slightly injured by a shell. I do not know the amount of
injury the enemy sustained.
I would state that Captain Earle's battery and Captain Smart's com
pany were stationed about 6 miles from my camp and nearly in an op
posite direction frt>rn Bluffton, to meet any advance which might be
made from Red Bluff. Captain Leadbetter's company was at Hardee-
ville, 8 miles from my camp, and in an opposite direction from Bluffton.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
THUS. H. JOHNSON,
Lieutenant- Colonel, Commanding Detachment.
Capt. JAMES LOWNDES,
Acting Assistant Adjutant- General.
[Indorsements.]
HDQRS. DEPT. S. C., GA., AND FLA., Charleston, June 30, 1863.
Respectfully forwarded for information of War Department. A court
of inquiry has been asked for by Lieutenant-Colonel Johnson, and will
be given him. to inquire into his conduct on this occasion.*
G. T. BEAUREGARD,
General, Commanding.
JULY 13, 1863.
Rather ineffectively managed, I fear. The court of inquiry will, how
ever, determine.
J. A. SEDDOK,
Secretary.
No. 2.
Report of Capt. John F. Lay, Assistant Adjutant- General, C. S. Army,
Inspector of Cavalry.
HDQRS. DEPT. S. C., GA., AND FLA., Charleston, June 20, 1863.
GENERAL : In obedience to orders from department headquarters I
have visited the scene and made a thorough investigation of the facts
connected with the recent raid of the Abolition forces at Bluffton, on the
South May River, and the wanton and wicked destruction of valuable
private property there committed. I have to submit the following
report:
On the 1st day of June, 1863, Lieutenant- Colon el Johnson, of Col-
cock's regiment of cavalry, reached Camp Pritchard, 8 miles from
Bluffton, and relieved Lieutenant-Colonel Stokes, of Rutledge's regi
ment of cavalry, with four companies of his regiment just brought
together, and not previous to that time under his immediate command.
He established his camp and put out his pickets under the same in
structions given by his predecessor, not then changed in any respect.
* On August 17, 1863, Lieutenant-Colonel Johnson renewed application for a court
of inquiry, and in reply, August 20, was informed that no court would be convened
until it could be done without detriment to the service.
CHAP. XXVI.] EXPEDITION FROM FORT PULASKI, GA. 311
It does not appear that lie took any steps, by sending out details under
commissioned officers, to familiarize the command with the localities.
On the morning of the 4th of June, 18G3, Lieutenant Colonel Johnson
was at his camp with his command, having his picket at Hunting Island,
just below Bluffton, and at Baynard's, nearly opposite, but none in
Bluffton.
In Bluffton was stationed a company of infantry, under the command
of Captain Mickler, but Captain Mickler had the evening preceding
gone up to Hardeeville, 10 miles distant, the headquarters of Colonel
Gantt, commander of the post, to communicate with him and to seek
quarters for his family, leaving Lieutenant Smith in command of his
company. From this company a picket was placed on post during the
night, but none during the day. The quarters of this company were
on the bank of the river, about 300 yards from the wharf.
Capt. A. M. Lowry, Company A, Colcock's regiment, was also in
Bluffton, near to quarters of Captain Mickler, having couriers with him,
as the commander of outposts, and to him the different pickets were or
dered to report.
Sergeant Jones, Company B, who was stationed at Baynard's, reports
that on the morning of the 4th June, 18G3, he first saw a steamer about 7
a. in. ; that it was a foggy morning ; that he at once dispatched a courier
to Lieutenant-Colonel Johnson, and in a few moments saw three other
steamers. They stopped at the bluff and he thought made preparation
for landing troops. He sent another courier. Then the boats moved up
to shell the town. He kep»t out of reach; heard firing at Bluffton, and
watched until the boats left, between the hours of 12 m. and 1 p. m. He
states that he only had general instructions for picket duty, with no espe
cial instructions for this duty, and that he was ignorant of the country.
Private Savage, Company B, was stationed at Hunting Island with
one companion. He states that between day-dawn and sunrise they
were on post looking down the river ; about 1 mile below could see three
steamers coming up. He fell back about 150 yards and sent his com
rade to report in Bluffton to the commander of outposts and give the
notice to any party in the town. About one and a halt' hours thereafter
saw the enemy landing. He again fell back, and soon the courier returned
to him and reported that he could find no one in Blnffron at all. (Either
this courier must have been totally ignorant of the locality or he failed
to penetrate into the village, else he could not have tailed to find the
troops stationed immediately on the bank of the river near the whart.)
He asked the courier why he did not go on to camp; courier replied he
did not know what to do. He then left this man to watch and himself
went on and reported to Lieutenant-Colonel Johnson that three steam
ers had come up the river, and that four companies had landed tron
them and were luarcliinc: toward Bluffton at a double-quick. He then
returned to Lis post; reached there about 2 p. m., and found the boats
had all left. In his absence his comrade had left, gone to the command,
and was sent back by Lieutenant-Colonel Johnson.
Lieutenant Smith states that in the absence of Captain Mickler he
was in command of the company stationed about 300 yards from the
wharf at Bluffton, and that as he was sitting down to breakfast about
7 a. m., on the morning of the 4th June, 1863, he heard one of the men
call to him that a steamer was coming up the river. He looked out and
saw two steamers lying off 1£ miles distant from Bluffton, apparently
at anchor, and one of his men reported that the enemy were a^adj"
the village, He had heard no firing, and supposing that the enem.U ad
already landed and were endeavoring to surround him, he ordered his
312 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA rOnxr. XXVL
meu to fall in as quickly as possible (having first removed and hid his
baggage), and then marched them out to the public road and fell back
on it about 1 mile to Sandy Bridge, leaving two men to watch the move
ments of the enemy and sending two men in the direction of Hunting
Island to ascertain any movement of the enemy from that direction.
After remaining at Sandy Bridge about half an hour, having his men
deployed as skirmishers on both sides of the road, Lieutenant-Colonel
Johnson, with his forces, came up and he reported to him.
(From this point I state the facts as collected by me from the state
ments of various parties examined.)
It seems that about 7 a. m. on the morning of the 4th of June, 1863,
the courier from Hunting Island reported in camp first to Captain
Campbell, Company B, and was by him immediately sent to Lieuten
ant-Colonel Johnson at his quarters near by. The bugle was imme
diately sounded and the companies ordered to form for a prompt march.
Ammunition was issued, arms inspected, and dispatches sent off to vari
ous points — those to Captain Smart and adjacent companies ordering
their commands toward Bluff'ton, unless a demonstration was being
made by the enemy in the direction of Red Bluff.
About 7.30 the command moved off by companies as each was ready
and without being told off or formed into squadron. (It should be men
tioned here that Lieutenant-Colonel Johnson, in the absence of Colonel
Gantt, had been and was the acting commandant of the post.)
About 8 or 8.30 a. m. (there is very little accuracy as to time) Lieu
tenant-Colonel Johnson, who had waited to see his command off and
had overtaken them with his command, reached a point 1 mile distant
from Bluffton, and there found the company of Captain Mickler, under
the command of Lieutenant Smith, wltich had retired from the village.
On the way he had been met by a courier from Captain Lowry with in
formation that they had been compelled to leave Bluffton by the pres
ence of the boats. Up to this point no firing had been heard from the
boats or from the pickets, and Captain Lowry, with Lieutenant McAvoy,
a courier, and 6 men from Mjpkler's company, had remained at the head
of one of the streets of the village in full view of one of the steamers
until compelled to fall back to cover of the woods or bushes. Lieuten
ant-Colonel Johnson continued to advance, ordering Mickler's company
(50 or 60 strong) to follow after until he came up with Captain Lowry,
and from him ascertained the position of the enemy as far as he knew
it, his report being that two gunboats were at the wharf at Bluffton.
Two reliable scouts were sent forward to reconnoiter and ascertain
position and movements of the enemy. Lieutenant-Colonel Johnson,
with his adjutant, Colcock, Captain Lowry, and a few others followed
immediately behind the scouts, the command being halted meantime.
From the bend of the road near the mill, opposite the center of the
town, the scouts saw the enemy in the road at the mill— at first only 1
man, but very soon some 25 or 30 in number, whom they fired on, which
fire was promptly returned by the enemy, and at this point the gun
boats commenced shelling. Lieutenant-Colonel Johnson immediately
returned and ordered Lieutenant Smith with his company forward as
skirmishers to engage the enemy, and promising to come to his support
as soon as he could dismount his cavalry, and ordering him "not to fall
back unless compelled to do so." (Here there is an important discrep
ancy of statement between Lieutenant-Colonel Johnson and Lieuten
ant Smith, the latter insisting that hjs orders were, *<To push forward,
engage the enemy, and fall back until he was supported," &c.)
Lieutenant Smith moved forward and Lieutenant-Colonel Johnson
CIIAI>. xxvi.] EXPEDITION FROM FORT PULASKI, GA. 313
retired with his command to a field one-half mile in rear to form and
dismount his command. Halting here for this purpose and finding that
the shells from the enemy's boats at Baynard's (2 miles distant by scale
of map) were falling, as he thought, in dangerous proximity to his horses,
he determined to move them still farther back, and that he could accom
plish this more readily by riding them back. He therefore moved his whole
command back to a piece of woods 1J miles distant, there dismounted
them, and marched them at a double quick over the sandy road 2 miles
to the point of support to Lieutenant Smith. (There is a difference of
opinion in regard to the time consumed by Lieutenant-Colonel John
son in this movement, he being of opinion not more than thirty minutes,
and others forty five minutes or one hour. My own judgment, from an
accurate examination of the ground and distance, is that to fall back
the one half mile and make the formation, then again 1£ miles and dis
mount, and then to march forward 2 miles over a deep sandy road,
granting that it were done, as I have every reason to believe it was
done, with promptitude, would consume all of forty-five minutes if not
one entire hour. Lieutenant Colonel Johnson, however, is very posi
tive, and fixes his dates by his first dispatch from camp at 7 a. in., and
his second, written after dismounting and returning, at 9 a. in. I rode
over this distance and timed it twice.)
The company of Lieutenant Smith after having, a part of them, fired
into the enemy, were ordered by him to retire, in accordance, as he states,
with his construction of the order of Lieutenant-Colonel Johnson to
him. It appears from the statement of Captain Lowry that during the
absence of Lieutenant Colonel Johnson he had sent a courier to him to
inform him that Lieutenant Smith had engaged the enemy and that the
enemy were firing the town. Before the return of this courier he stated
that Lieutenant Colonel Johnson ordered him (Lowry) to press the en
emy into the fire. During the absence of this courier Lowry states that
he heard Lieutenant Smith give the order to his command to retire, say
ing that he was being flanked on the left ; that he asked him who brought
him such intelligence, to which Smith replied, Sergeant Woods, of his
company. That he then suggested to fiim that he should extend his
skirmishers to the left and ascertain the fact before retiring, assuring
him that he (Lowry) had a reliable scout out on the left, who would doubt
less afford information of any movement of the enemy from that direc
tion; that Smith hesitating, he told him he was in command of his
own company and must use his pleasure, and that Lieutenant McAvoy
and others agreeing with Smith that if Hanked he ought to retire, Smith
withdrew his command until met by Lieutenant-Colonel Johnson on his
return with his dismounted troops. Lieutenant McAvoy and his scout
remaining with him, Captain Lowry did not retire with him, but con
tinued toehold the position, and reports that the enemy remained quiet
and did not advance after they had been tired upon.
Upon his return with his dismounted forces, retaining the company of
Captain Cordes mounted, as they were armed only with sabers and
pistols, Lieutenant-Colonel Johnson met Smith retiring with his com
pany some distance in rear of the point from which he had ordered him
to advance; inquiring by what authority he had retired, he again or
dered him forward as skirmishers, with the dismounted cavalry closely
following in support. (At this time the steamers of the enemy, three at
Bluffton and two at Baynard's, were rapidly shelling, though necessa
rily firing uncertainly, as our troops were not in view.)
At this point Captain Mickler (who at Hardeeville had seen a dispatch
to Colonel Colcock and had ridden at full speed to join his command)
314 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVI
came up. He states that when within 1 mile of the village he found the
command of Lieutenant-Colonel Johnson Jn line on foot and halted.
That he pressed on, and about 100 yards beyond came up with his own
company, under Lieutenant Smith, deployed as skirmishers, but not ad
vancing. He ordered its advance at once, and was informed that Lieu
tenant-Colonel Johnson was in advance. He went on to him and found
1, • m seated writing a dispatch ; he reported to him, and informed him that
he had ordered his men to advance, and asked if he had any objection,
to which the reply was, "No, it is just what I desire ; advance and en
gage the enemy, I will support you, and we will drive them into the fire."
He took command of his company, extended his flanks, and advanced.
The whole force then moved on rapidly in and through the burning
woods and town to the bank of the river. The firing had ceased from
the boats, and the last one was in sight passing the bend of the river
going rapidly oft'. At the suggestion of Captain Mickler he was fur
nished with a party of sharpshooters, and he proceeded rapidly to get
below the bend to fire on the boats as they passed, but they were too
late. The whole command then returned, and as far as they were able
put a stop to the fire then raging, but the work of desolation was then
Hearty completed.
The enemy, it appears, came up with five wooden steamers, landed a
force at Hunting Island, and then came up and took position with three
of them at Bluffton and two at Bayuard's, nearly opposite. The sole
object of the raid seems to have been a willful and wanton destruction
of private property. The village of Bluffton had long been deserted
and uninhabited, and no negro property was within its limits or adja
cent. No negroes were seen by any one with the forces of the enemy ;
indeed the few men encountered at the mill in the early beginning seem
to have been the only troops seen by our men. The enemy were not
enterprising or daring, and yet accomplished their wicked work but too
well.
The ashes of Bluffton, with its withered and scorched remains of
noble trees and beautiful shrubbery, present a sad scene of desolation
and fiendish vandalism unparalleled in the history of civilized nations.
There are points of criticism upon the conduct of Lieutenant-Colonel
Johnson and Lieutenant Smith obvious even to the casual reader of
this fair statement of facts, as gathered from the most reliable sources
of information. The loss of time at the critical moment by the move
ment of Lieutenant-Colonel Johnson to the rear to form and dismount
his command, instead of dismounting on the spot and sending his horses
to the rear, is much to be regretted. The falling back of Lieutenant
Smith with his command at the same time that the enemy was doing
the same thing is equally so, whatever the motive from which it pro
ceeded. These officers have asked for a court of inquiry.
I respectfully suggest that a full investigation will be for the benefit
of the service, and recommend that it be granted them, or such other
course of investigation as from an examination of the facts may seem
in the judgment of the commaiidiug general more expedient to betaken.
The conduct of the picket from Hunting Island sent to report to the
commander of outposts in Bluffton appears to have been deserving of
censure. I directed his arrest and that charges be preferred against
him.
Respectfully submitted.
JNO. F. LAY,
Assistant Adjutant- General and Inspector of Cavalry.
Brig. Gen. THOMAS JOED AN, Chief of Staff , &c.
CHAP. XX VI.] AFFAIR NEAR BRUNSWICK, GA. 315
JUNE 8, 1863.— Affair near Brunswick, Ga.
Report of Capt. W. M. Hazzard, Fourth Georgia Cavalry.
HEADQUARTERS MILITARY DISTRICT OF GEORGIA,
Savannah. July 2, 1863.
GENERAL: I have the honor to forward, for the information of the
commanding- general, a copy of a report received from Captain Hazzard,
of the Fourth Georgia Cavalry.
I desire particularly to direct the attention of the commanding gen
eral to the good conduct of Lieutenant Grant and detachment.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
H. W. MERCEE,
Brigadier- General, Commanding.
Brig. Gen. THOMAS JORDAN,
Chief of Staff, Charleston, 8. C.
[Inclosure.]
CAMP WALKER, June 29, 1863.
COLONEL : Tours of this day's date, notifying me that Brigadier-Gen
eral Mercer desired a report of the affair at Brunswick on 8th of June,
has been received.
On the morning of the 8th couriers reached camp about 10 o'clock
with information that two gunboats and one transport towing two large
boats loaded with troops had started from Saint Simon's Island in the
direction of Brunswick. Previous information justified the belief that
a temporary landing in Brunswick would be attempted. I therefore
hastened to that point with the remainder of my command and reached
there about 10.30.
Soon after leaving camp the heavy boom of cannon gave assurance
that Sergts. J. W. Taylor and Alexander Burney, with the Brunswick
pickets, had disputed a lauding. The firing was incessant for about
three-quarters of an hour, when the boats withdrew.
Upon their approach these two gallant young officers assembled their
pickets upon the edge of the bluff near the old* wharf, and in a lying
position gave them many well-directed rounds at a distance of about
150 yards. This picket was aided by men from two other posts. Corpl.
A. E. Foreman, Corporal Lamb, and Corpl. T. E. Hazzard, when they
saw the boats leave Saint Simon's Island, hastened with all the men
they could spare to their assistance. Soon after arriving in Bruns
wick with the remainder of my command the boats ascended the river.
Fearing for the safety of the salt-works, some 7 miles up the river,
and thinking it might only be for the purpose of drawing us from
Brunswick, I ordered Lieutenant Grant with the detachments of Ser
geants Taylor and Burney and such other men as I could spare, num
bering in all some 30, to select a good position and dispute every at
tempt at lauding and not to fire until a good chance presented itself,
while I hastened with the remainder of the command to the salt- works.
Upon reaching the works I found one boat lying at the mouth of the
creek leading to them, while the other was returning to Brunswick, and
as soon as the return boat reached Brunswick they opened a rapid fire.
After firing some fifty shots the one threatening the salt works returned
and joined the other at Brunswick. The firing became heavy. I has
tened back, but the jaded condition of my horses did not allow me to
316 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVL
reach them before both boats had well-nigh exhausted their efforts at
driving Lieutenant Grant from his position.
I cannot speak in too high terms of the gallant conduct of the men
subjected to this heavy cannonade, frequently at not more than 150
yards; their conduct is particularly commendable owing to the fact
that their tire was reserved. I also take pleasure in calling attention to
the forethought and gallantry displayed b.\ Lieutenant Grant, Sergeants
Taylor and Buruey, and Corporals Foreman, Lamb, and Hazzard. Their
promptness in assisting the Brunswick picket added much in deceiving
the enemy in regard to our strength. After this effort the largest boat,
which was recognized as the blockader, returned to the sound, whilst
the others again ascended the river.
Thinking the salt-works and the railroad bridge the points of attack,
I withdrew Lieutenant Grant's detachment and hastened them to the
salt- works, while a squad, under the guidance of Mr. Julian Burnett,
who had that day shouldered his gun and volunteered his services,
hastened to the bridge. Upon ueariug the bridge, which was out of
rifle-range, Mr. Burnett perceived the vandals had fired it, and no
sooner were our men discovered than they commenced a rapid retreat
to their gunboat in a barge. To get a shot at them Mr. Burnett con
ducted the squad to a point which the barge was forced to pass at a
distance of about 100 yards, but which brought them within about 200
yards of the gunboat and transport, which by this time had taken posi
tion in rear of the gunboat. 'As the barge passed the squad poured a
well-directed volley into it; 2 officers fell and 3 oarsmen appeared
wounded. A second round made the remainder of the crew cease row
ing until the boat had drifted out of range. The gunboat then opened
fire, also their sooty allies on the transport.
After many harmless rounds the boats returned to the salt-works at
about sunset and came to. Supposing their object was to make a night
attack, I divided my command, placing detachments respectively under
command of Lieutenants Scarlett, It. S. Pyles, and H. F. Grant, who
carefully watched their movements until morning. No further efforts
were made at a raid, and both boats returned to the sound.
We lost one horse during the day from a grape-shot, but were blessed
in losing no one; not even a wound was inflicted. A few days after,
from the accidental bursting of a shell, we lost the heroic Sergeant
Burney.
Information, apparently reliable, states the enemy lost 3 killed, 1 offi
cer severely wounded, and others slightly.
Very respectfully,
W. M. HAZZARD,
Captain Company G, Fourth Georgia Cavalry.
Col. D. L. CLINCH,
Commanding Fourth Georgia Cavalry, Waynesville.
[Indorsement.]
JULY 6, 1863.
Mention in orders the activity and foresight of Captain Hazzard and
gallantry of Lieutenant Grant and command.
G. T. B,
CHAP. XXVI.] ATTACK ON DARIEN, GA. 317
JUNE 11, 1863.— Attack on Darien, Ga.
REPORTS.
No. 1.— Brig. Gen. H. W. Mercer, C. S. Army, commanding Military District of
Georgia.
No. 2. — Capt. William A. Lane, Twentieth Battalion Georgia Cavalry.
No. 3. — Capt. W. G. Thomson, Twentieth Battalion Georgia Cavalry.
No. 1.
Report of Brig. Gen. H. W. Mercer, C. S. Army, commanding Military
District of Georgia.
HEADQUARTERS MILITARY DISTRICT OF GEORGIA,
Savannah, June 27, 1863.
GENERAL: Captain Thomson, commanding at the time Twentieth
Georgia Battalion Cavalry, made a report concerning the burning of
Darien, a copy of which was forwarded to you. Wishing a more detailed
account, I called upon the officer in command of the pickets, through
Major Millen, for a report, and forward you herewith copies of letters
from Captain Lane, commanding Company D, and Major Millen, com
manding battalion.*
It appears to have been impossible to concentrate a force sufficient to
oppose a landing, and Captain Lane seems to have been misled by the
size of the force to believe more extended operations intended, and to
have acted with a view to protect the large number of families and val
uable property at the ridge until re-enforcements could arrive.
I regret exceedingly the impunity with which the enemy escaped.
I have the honor to be, general, verv respectfully, yours,
H. W. MERCEll,
Brigadier- General, Commanding.
Brig. Gen. THOMAS. JORDAN, Chief of Staff.
P. S. — Two troops are stationed there now.
[Inclosure.]
HDQRS. TWENTIETH BATTALION GEORGIA CAVALRY,
Camp Jackson, June 19, 1863.
Capt. WILLIAM A. LANE,
Commanding Company D :
CAPTAIN: I am directed by the major commanding to call on you for
a written statement of the landing at and burning of Darien by the
enemy on the llth instant.
You will particularly state the number of the enemy and the means
used by yourself in defeating their purpose of lauding and burning the
town.
Kespectfully, captain, your obedient servant,
M. E. WlLLIAMo,
Adjutant Twentieth Battalion.
* Major Milieu's not found.
318 COASTS OF S. C , GA., AND MID AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVI."
No. 2.
Report of Capt. William A. Lane, Twentieth Battalion Georgia Cavalry.
CAMP JACKSON, June 19, 1863.
MAJOR: In compliance with your order I proceed to give a statement
of the affair at Darien :
About noon on the llth instant two steamers and two gunboats made
their appearance in Doboy Sound, and without halting proceeded with
great rapidity southward along the channel known as the inland pass
from Savannah to Brunswick. Mr. Pease (a large owner of real estate
in Darien and familiar with all the navigable streams thereabout) was
with me, and expressed the opinion that they were going southward
and not to Darien. When they reached the Altamaha, however, instead
of proceeding southward they turned in the direction of Darien, and
in a few minutes were vigorously shelling our pickets just east of the
town, and in thirty minutes from the commencement of the shelling the
town of Darien was being burned. The position of said picket being
open and exposed, they retired and took position on the Ridge road out
of sight of the gunboats.
So soon as I discovered that the fleet had turned in the direction of
Darien I dispatched couriers to the respective pickets, ordering them to
rendezvous at a point between the ridge and Darien, and succeeded in
getting 15 together. The woods surrounding Darien (which I may here
remark is an open pine barren for several miles) were shelled during the
burning of the town. I threw Out pickets on all the roads leading out
from Darien. with instructions to reach the town if practicable. When
near the town on one of the roads I was informed by picket from one of
the other roads that a party of the enemy, supposed to be 200 strong,
had attempted to get in their rear and that the picket had fallen back.
There were no white people living in Darien ; all of its former inhab
itants who remain in that vicinity are at the ridge. They were in hourly
expectation of the enemy there, and they could have reached there
easily without the knowledge of the picket unless all the roads were
picketed. By so doing the picket could speedily be drawn to any road
by which they might advance to retard their movements.
From the best information I have 1 suppose that 300 or 400 landed.
They remained until the town was consumed, when they (the vessels)
went out into the sound.
• Respectfully, major, your obedient servant,
W. A. LANE,
Captain Company D.
Maj. JOHN M. MILLEN,
Commanding Battalion.
No. 3.
Report of Capt. W. G. Thomson, Twentieth Battalion Georgia Cavalry.
HDQRS. TWENTIETH BATTALION GEORGIA CAVALRY,
Camp Jackson, June 13, 1863.
GENERAL : I have to report that the enemy have burnt Darien to the
ground ; there is only one church and two or three small buildings
. XXVI.] LITTLE FOLLY ISLAND, S. C. 3 If)
standing. This was done on the llth instant. They came up the river
in three gunboats, shelling as they came along.
The officer in command of the picket states that between 150 to 200
negroes, under white officers, landed and burnt the town. They cap
tured a pilot boat, with about GO bales of cotton on board. The men
aboard of the pilot-boat state that they did not have time to burn her;
that they hardly escaped themselves. They carried off some few ne
groes — most of them were free — the number not known. They also
captured 2 white women, but afterward released them, telling^ them
that they intended to come back and burn the whole of the houses on
the ridge and along the coast. They then returned down the river and
now lie outside of Doboy Island.
Eespectfully, general, your obedient servant,
W. G. THOMSON,
Captain, Commanding Battalion.
Brigadier-General MERCER.
JUNE 11-13, 1863.— Operations on Little Folly Island, S. C.
Reports of Brig. Gen. R. S. Ripley, C. S. Army, commanding First Mili
tary District.
HDQRS. FIRST MIL. DIST., DEPT. OF S. C., GA., AND FLA.,
Charleston, S. C., June 12, 18G3.
GENERAL : The enemy having advanced light guns to Little Folly
Island yesterday to shell the wreck of the steamer Euby, now ashore
at Light-House Inlet, in accordance with directions Captain Mitchel,
commanding the batteries on the south of Morris Island, opened fire,
silencing them at the second shot.
This morning I gave directions for him to open fire in case he observed
any indications for work on Little Folly on the part of the enemy, and
this afternoon about 5 o'clock, seeing parties apparently at work, he
commenced shelling. About 50 men left Little Folly for the main island.
The enemy replied from his batteries on Big Folly and his light guns,
while his gunboats came up the creek northwest of the island and shelled
the pickets at Oyster Point.
No damage has been done to our troops or batteries. Another mor
tar will be in position to-night, and Captain Mitchel has directions to
prevent any nearer approach of the enemy, if necessary with all his
guns.
Very respectfully, vour obedient servant,
E. S. EIPLEY,
Brigadier- General.
Brig. Gen. THOMAS JORDAN, Chief of Staff.
HDQRS. FIRST MIL. DIST., DEPT. OF S. C., GA., AND FLA,
Charleston, .8. G., June 14, 18G3.
GENERAL: I have the honor to report that yesterday afternoon, the
enemy having appeared to be at work on Little Folly Island, Lieu
tenant-Colonel Yates opened fire upon them, shelling them for about
three-quarters of an hour, putting a stop to their operations, which
320 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXvl.
appeared to be erecting a shelter or batteries near the inlet. A close
watch has be< n directed to be kept up and their work to be stopped
whenever attempted.
It is intended to throw an epaulement across the island to cover the
camps and depots from such attempts as the enemy can make.
The main magazine for the detached batteries is completed, and the
artillery principally supplied with ammunition.
It may be necessary to change the position of one of the guns now in
battery, as from the points at which the enemy appeared to be working
two or three of our batteries can be enfiladed. I have directed Lieu
tenant Colonel Yates to make the necessary arrangements.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant.
E. S. RIPLEY,
Brigadier- General, Commanding.
Brig. Gen. THOMAS JORDAN, Chief of Staff.
CORRESPONDENCE, ORDERS, AND RETURNS RELATING
SPECIALLY TO THE OPERATIONS ON THE COASTS OF
SOUTH CAROLINA, GEORGIA, AND MIDDLE AND EAST
FLORIDA FROM APRIL J2, 1862, TO JUNE 11, 1803.
ETC.
*HDQRS. U. S. FORCES BEFORE FORT PULASKI,
Tybee Island, Ga., March 30, 1862.
General JOSEPH G. TOTTEN,
Chief Engineer, U. S. Army, Washington, D. C.:
DEAR SIR: In reply to your letter of the 14th instant, asking for
"some particulars of the operations by which guns and supplies
were transported and batteries established at Venus Point and on
the island opposite, whereby the navigation of Savannah River is
controlled," 1 have the pleasure to submit the following, viz:
It was known by our commanding general before the middle of
January that our gunboats could enter the Savannah River above Fort
Pulaski, on the south side through Wassaw Sound, Wilmington Nar
rows (or Freeborn's Cut), and Saint Augustine Creek, and on the north
side through New River, Wall's Cut, and Wright River. Wall's Cut
is an artificial channel connecting New and Wright Rivers, which the
enemy had obstructed by an old hulk and numerous heavy piles. These
obstructions had all been removed before January 12 by a detachment
of our troops (infantry and engineers) under Major Beard, Forty-eighth
New York, and their removal reported to Commodore DuPout by the
middle of January, in order that gunboats could enter the Savannah
through Wall's Cut and cover us in the erection of batteries. Mud
River is also navigable at high tide for vessels of not over 8£ feet
draught, A joint expedition of land and naval forces was organized by
General Sherman and Commodore DuPont to blockade the Savannah
River above the fort. It consisted of one regiment of infantry (the
Forty-eighth New York), two companies of New York Volunteer 'Engi
neers, and two companies of the Rhode Island Artillery, with twenty
guns of all calibers, viz: Two 8-inch siege howitzers, four 30-pouiider
* Found too late for publication in Series I, Vol. VI.
. XXVI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.— UNION. 321
Parrotts, three 20-pouuder Parrotts, three 12-pounder James, and eight
24-pounder field howitzers, accompanied by three gunboats. The troops
were to rendezvous at Daufuskie Island, where we already had three
companies of the Seventh Connecticut, under Major Gardiner, guarding
Wall's Cut. They were posted there on January 13. The land force
was in readiness at Hilton Head soon after the middle of January.
Various causes delayed the expected naval co-operation, so that no
gunboats passed Wall's Cut until the 28th of January.
Another mixed force presented itself on the south of the Savannah
Eiver .in Wilmington Narrows (a Freeborn cut), about the same time,
the laud forces being- commanded by General H. G. Wright and the
gunboats by Fleet-Captain Davis.
I accompanied the expedition on the north side as General Sherman's
chief engineer, receiving my orders directly from and making my re
ports directly to him. General Viele commanded the land forces and
Commander John Eodgers the gunboats. From Commander Rodgers'
flag-ship, the Unadilla (in Wright Elver), I witnessed the cannonading
between our gunboats in Wright Eiver and Wilmington Narrows and
Tatuall's fleet in the Savannah on the 28th of January. The distances
were about equal (2J miles) ; but little effect was produced. On the
afternoon of the same day I made a reconnaissance of Mud Eiver and
the Savannah shore of Jones Island, selected Venus Point as the posi
tion for one battery, and located the line for a road or causeway between
Venus Point and Mud Eiver. Jones Island is nothing but a mud marsh,
covered with reeds and tall grass. The general surface is about at the
level of ordinary high tide. There are a few spots of limited area,
Venus Point being one of them, that are submerged only by spring
tides or by ordinary tides favored by the wind, but the character of the
soil is the same over the whole island. It is a soft, unctious mud, free
of grit or sand, and incapable of supporting a heavy weight. In the
most elevated places the dry crust is but 3 or 4 inches in depth, the
substratum being a semi-fluid mud, which is agitated like jelly by the
falling of even small bodies upon it, like the jumping of men or the
ramming of earth. Men walking over it are partially sustained by the
roots of the reeds and grass and sink in only 4 or 5 inches. When this
top support gives way or is broken through they go down 2 to 2J feet and
in some places much farther. A road or causeway of some kind across
the island from Mud Eiver to Venus Point I thought necessary, and rec
ommended it at the outset (even if the guns should not have to be carried
over it) as the means of getting speedy succor to the Venus Point bat
tery in case of attack. Daufuskie Island, 4 miles distant, being the
nearest point where troops could be kept for that purpose, General
Sherman was kind enough to leave all matters having a bearing upon
the location and plan of the battery, the devising of ways and means
for heavy transportation, &c., to me. My orders were to consult freely
with General Viele and the chief of artillery in everything necessary
to be done not strictly within the range of my duties as an engineer
officer.
On the 29th January I dispatched Lieutenant O'Eorke, of the Engi
neers, in a small boat, to examine Long and Elba Islands, in the Sa
vannah. Major Beard, Forty-eighth New York, accompanied him. They
entered the Savannah via Cunningham Point, pulled up the Savan
nah, stopping several times on Long and Elba Islands; went around
the west end of the latter to within about 2 miles of Fort Jackson.
21 R K — VOL xiv
322 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. 10 WAP. XXVI.
Lieutenant O'Borke reported the upper end of Long Island favorable
for batteries, the surface being fully as high as that at Yen us Point.
The following extracts from my journal form a part of the history of
the operations on Jones Island and the Savannah Eiver, and may
properly be introduced into this report :
[Extracts from journal of the Chief Engineer Expeditionary Corps.]
February 1-4, 1862. — The two engineer companies on Daufuskie Island, commanded
by Captain Sears, \vere employed in cutting poles for causeway on Jones Island from
Mud River to Venus Point and for the engineer wharf on Daufuskie Island, New
River. On the 4th the wharf, with 8 feet water at low tide, was completed ; 10,000
poles, 5 to 6 inches in diameter and 9 feet long, had been cut and 1,900 deposited at
the wharf. The men of Forty-eighth New York and Seventh Connecticut transported
the poles on their shoulders, the average distance carried being 1 mile. I had a swath
cut and cleared of reeds and grass across the upper end of Jones Island to prevent the
enemy burning the island over. Navy officers engaged in sounding Mud and Wright
Rivers. No certainty as yet that the gunboats will enter the Savannah. Mud River
has but about 2 feet water in it at low tide, with a very soft, altnost semi-fluid, bottom.
Soundings in Wright River not completed yet.
February 5-6. — Nothing specially new. Engineer force engaged in cutting poles,
filling sand bags on Daufuskie Island, building a temporary wharf of poles and sand
bags on Mud River, and constructing a wheelbarrow track of planks laid end to end
from Mud River to Venus Point. The Forty-eighth New York and Seventh Con
necticut and a portion of the engineer force" engaged in transporting poles, plank,
filled sand bags from Daufuskie Island to Jones Island (a distance of very nearly 4
miles) in row-boats.
February 7-8. — Finished temporary wharf in Mud River ; carried several hun
dred sand bags (filled) across to Venus Point ; also a quantity of plank and other bat
tery materials. Had the balance of the materials required for the Venus Point bat
tery put into lighters, so as to be ready whenever the gunboats should be ready to
move. No immediate prospect of their moving yet.
February 9. — 1 visited Commodore Rodgers to consult in regard to his moving into
the Savannah. Said he intended to attempt the Mud River passage that night on the
high tide. The tffgnal of his starting was to be one note from his steam-whistle.
Returned to Daufuskie and consulted with General Viele and Captain Hamilton, the
chief of artillery. It was arranged that the flats, with the guns and ammunition in
them, should be towed by steamer Mayflower through Wall's Cut and up Mud River
just behind the gunboats". They were" accordingly taken in tow in the evening after
dark from the engineer wharf. The night was windy, rainy, and very dark. The May
flower, after several attempts, failed to reach Wall's Cut, and cast anchor near the
spot she started from. Gunboats did not move. I think they. were justified in not
doing so on account of the weather. I visited Captain Rodgers about midnight. At
that time he had not fully decided to make the attempt.
February 10. — Captain Hamilton quite ill from last night's exposure in the May
flower. I consulted with General Viele, and it was determined to establish the Venus
Point battery at once and wait no longer for the gunboats; also to do this by land
ing the guns in Mud River and carrying them over the marsh. Major Beard, 'Forty-
eighth New York, and Lieut. J. H. Wilson, Topographical Engineers, volunteered to
assist Lieut. Horace Porter, the ordnance officer, in getting the flats into Mud River
and the guns on shore and into position. Accordingly the flats with the guns were
towed by row-boats up Mud River against the tide and landed without accident. Two
of them were taken about 200 yards into the marsh by Lieutenant Wilson. The Forty-
eighth New York furnished the fatigue party, which had already been twenty-four
hours at work on Jones Island, and were very much exhausted. ^Deeming it impos
sible to get the guns over that night I directed them to be covered with reeds and
grass and left for the following night.
During the night of the 10th Lieutenant O'Rorke, of the Engineers, with a party
)f volunteer engineers, commenced the magazine and platforms at Venus Point. The
party concealed their work at daybreak (llth) and withdrew. The platforms were
made by raising the surface 5 or "(5 inches with sand carried over in bags. On this
sand foundation thick planks parallel with the direction of fire were laid nearly, but
not quite, in contact with each other. At right angles to these the deck planks were
laid, giving a platform 9 feet by 17 feet. The floor of the magazine was 18 inches
above the natural surface, resting on sand bags.
February 11.— Continued getting battery and road materials to Jones Island
during the day. Early in the evening 1 went to Jones Island with fresh men to get
tne guns forward. Major Beard, Lieutenant Wilson, and Lieutenant Porter took
CHAP. XXVI.} CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. — UNION. 323
charge of the fatigue parties as before. The work is done in the following manner,
viz :
The pieces mounted on their carriages and limbered np are moved forward on run
ways of planks (about 15 feet long, 1 foot wide, and 2% inches thick), laid end to end.
Lieutenant Wilson, with a party of 35 men, took charge of the two pieces in adv;nin-
(an 8-inch siege howitzer and a 30-pomuler Parrott), and Major Beard and Lieutenant
Porter, with a somewhat larger force, of the four pieces in rear (two 20 and two 30
pounder Parrotts). Each party has one pair of planks in excess of the number re
quired for the guns and limbers to rest upon when close together. This extra pair
of planks is placed in front in prolongation of those already under the carriages, and
the pieces are then drawn forward with drag-ropes, one after the other, the length of
a plank, thus freeing the pair of planks in rear, which in their turn are carried to the
front. This labor is of the most fatiguing kind. In most places the men sink nearly
to their knees in mud, in some much deeper. This mud being of the most slippery
kind, singularly insoluble in water and free of grit or sand, the planks become im
mediately smeared over with it. Many delays and much exhausting labor were occa
sioned by the carriages slipping off. When this occurred the wheels would suddenly
sink in to the hubs, and powerful levers had to be devised to raise them up again. " I
authorized the men to encase their feet in sand bags to keep the mud out of their
shoes. Many did so, tyi-ng the string just below the knee."
At 1 o'clock (morning of the 12th) I pulled hack to the schooner Keating, in New
River, aad brought a scow filled with ammunition into Mud River. It was carried
across to Venus Point. The magazine and platforms were ready for service by day
break. Lieutenant Wilson got his two pieces into position at 2.30 a. m., and Major
Beard and Lieutenant Porter their four pieces at 8.30 a. m. On the 12th Lieutenant
Wilson went back to General Viele on Daufuskie to report the success.
February 12. — After giving directions for the fresh relief to be put to work in
throwing up a dike around the battery to keep out the spring tides, which were be
ginning to flow, I returned to Daufuskie. The high tide to-day came to within 8
inches of the surface.
Sent the following dispatch to General Sherman :
"DAUFUSKIE ISLAND, GA., February 12, 1862.
" GENERAL: Venus Point and the Savannah passage is held by a six-gun battery
erected by us last night. If everything goes on well Long Island will be similarly
occupied to-morrow night. I will write to-morrow more in detail.
"Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
"Brigadier-General Volunteers and Chief Engineer, Engineer Corps.
" General THOMAS W. SHERMAN,
" Commanding Expeditionary Corps, Hilton Head, S. C"
February 13-15 —Various causes, particularly the weather, delayed the Long Island
batterv. On the morning of 13th rebel steamer Ida passed down by Venus Point
under full steam. Nine shots fired at her, striking astern all but one. Elevation
good, but not enough allowance made for speed of vessel. I was not m the bat
tery at the time. All the pieces except one 30-pounder recoiled off the platforms.
These were at once enlarged to 18 feet by 17* feet. On afternoon of 14th thr. e rebel
boats came down, taking a distance about 1 mile from the battery. Battery tired
about 30 shots. One of the vessels struck and all withdrew.
February 16.— The Ida loft Fort Pulaski and returned to Savannah via Lazaret
Creek, Turner's Creek, and Saint Augustine Creek.
February 17.-Returned to Hilton Head, as per General Sherman's ordei
Lieutenant O'Rorke with General Viele, with written instructions concerning the
engineering operations to be carried on.
The foregoing extracts from my journal are all that bear (lirectly
upon the operations on the Savannah above Fort Pulaski.
return there on duty. I have received official information, however,
that a second battery, consisting of one 8-inch siege howitzer, one 30
pounder Parrott, one 20-pounder Parrott, and three IJ-pounder Jnmes
has been established on Bird Island, just above Long 1
was done on the night of February 20, the flats, with the S™ YT, ."
tion, &c., in them being towed up Mud River -ami across the >
by row-boats. Lieutenant O'liorke, of the Engineers, was present as
the engineer officer. I have received no report from him.
On the 19th of February I was ordered here to place Tybee Island m
324 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVI.
a thorough state of defense against approaches from Wilmington Nar
rows and Lazaretto Creek, to prevent all approach by water and blockade
the channel, and also to commence operations for the bombardment of
Fort Tula. ski.
On the 27th of February General Sherman issued an order assigning
me to the command of the troops on Tybee Island, Ga., to enable me
to control all the personnel available for these objects.
The foregoing extracts are from official orders. The absolute block
ade of Pulaski dates from the 22d of February, at which time two com
panies with a battery were sent to Decent Island, on Lazaretto Creek.
To illustrate this report I transmit an outline tracing of a portion of
Savannah Eiver and the adjacent country.* I also send a package con
taining some of the correspondence between General Sherman and
myself during the progress of the operations referred to.
Very respectfully, your most obedient servant,
Q. A. GILLMOEE,
Actg. Brig. Gen. Vols., Chief Engr. Expeditionary Corps.
[Inclosure ~No. 1.]
IT. S. STEAMER FLAG,
Wassaw Sound, January 8, 1862.
Brig. Gen. THOMAS W. SHERMAN,
Comdg. Expeditionary Corps, Hilton Head, S. C. :
The undersigned, in accordance with verbal instructions from their
respective chiefs, have made a joint examination of Little Tybee Eiver,
or Freeborn's Cut, from its mouth, upon Wassaw Sound, to within half
a mile of Mrs. Barnard's house, situated upon the first fast land on
Wilmington Island. Above this the passage is also known as Wil
mington Narrows, until it reaches Saint Augustine Creek. They have
information, which they deem reliable, that a regiment of Savannah
light infantry without cannon is stationed on Wilmington Island
near Dr. Screven's house, a mile beyond Mrs. Barnard's. They also
learned that the channel passes near both these houses, within 50
yards of Dr. Screven's. They agreed that it was very improbable
that the boats could pass so near the enemy without being seen
by his pickets, and thus disclosing their examination. Discovery by
warning the enemy to close this passage would have militated more
against the interests of the public service than a successful examina
tion would have promoted it. Here, therefore, their "reconnaissance
ended. The distance from the ship to which their examination reached
was about 9 miles, extending up Tybee Eiver about 7 miles. The depth
of water at half tide varied from 3 to 7 fathoms. They found that
Isaac Tatuall, the colored pilot, was thoroughly acquainted with the
channel. The accuracy of his knowledge of the part under examina
tion gives assurance that he may be perfectly relied upon as pilot for
the rest of the passage. The channel as far as seen was wide, deep,
and practicable ; beyond they learn that it is narrow, but still deep,
and it is believed practicable for vessels 100 or 170 feet long. The in
formation in regard to fie unseen* part has been derived from carefully
collating the declarations of Isaac with those of other negroes inti
mately acquainted with this passage. The undersigned have therefore
come to the conclusion that gunboats may pass into Savannah Eiver
through Freeborn's Cut without meeting any artificial obstructions or
* Not found.
CHAP. XXVI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. UNION. 325
any serious natural impediment. Should, however, any unknown obsta
cle be encountered the return will be easy and nothing will have been
sacrificed. The undersigned would recommend that after enterinu Sa
vannah River a rapid advance should be made on the city, fighting the
vessels past Fort Jackson, and reducing it from above in or,der to allow
the unarmed transports free ingress. Upon the successful accomplish
ment of this purpose the batteries on Skiddaway Island and at Thun
derbolt will probably be abandoned j their positions, no longer valuable.
would scarcely be tenable. Fort Pulaski will be completely blockaded
by the same movement, its supplies cut off, its usefulness destroyed,
and its troops demoralized. It is found from the Coast Survey chart
and from testimony that Fort Jackson stands upon a peninsula less
than 2 miles wide, and covered with rice fields. Vessels stationed in
Saint Augustine Creek and Savannah River can cross their fires over
it, rendering troops holding it secure against successful attack by land
forces. This position, with a wharf, a fort capable of -resisting a coup-
de-main, with an open line of water communication with Tybee and
Port Royal, with probably another shorter inland passage through
Wall's Cut, seems to be a good point d'appui for a base of military op
erations in this vicinity. Herewith inclosed is a sketch showing route
proposed.*
Respectfully submitted.
JOHN RODGERS,
Commander.
Q. A. GILLMORE,
Captain and Chief Engineer Expeditionary Corps.
[Inclosuro No. 2.]
Memorandum of construction of battery at Venus Point, Savannah River.
Near the middle of January, 1862, it was known that the Savannah
River could be entered by gunboats above Fort Pulaski, from the south
by Wassaw Sound, &c., and from the north by New River, &c.
The obstruction in these passages had been removed before the 12th
January by detachments of infantry and engineers, Major Beard, Forty-
eighth New York, commanding.
Joint naval and land forces were organized for each approach, north
and south. The naval co-operation was delayed till the latter part of
the month. Captain Gillrnore accompanied the north-side expedition
as General Sherman's chief engineer. On the afternoon of the 2
January he made a reconnaissance of Mud River and the Savannah
shore of Jones Island, and selected Venus Point, on Jones Island, as
the position for one battery, and located the road line between Venus
Point and Mud River over the marsh. Lieutenant O'Rorke, engineer,
under Captain Gillmore's orders, examined, on the 29th January, Long
and Elba Islands, in the Savannah River. Major Beard accompanied
him.
February — to 7.— Engineer troops cutting and transporting poles lor
causeways and wharf at Mud River ; building wharf and forming road
filling and transporting sand bags, plank, poles, and other mate
4 miles, in row-boats, £e., to Jones Island.
February 10.— A fatigue party of Forty-eighth New 1 ork, after twenty-
four hours' previous work, towed the guns on flats
* Not found.
326 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVI.
lauded them. Night of 10th Lieutenant O'Rorke with party com
menced magazines and platforms at Venus Point.
February 11.— Continued getting battery and road materials to Jones
Island. In the evening Captain Gillmore went to Jones Island with
fresh men to get the guns forward. Major Beard, Lieutenant Wilson,
Topographical Engineers, and Lieut. H. Porter, ordnance, in charge of
fatigue parties as before. Six guns, viz, one 8-iuch siege howitzer, three
30 and two 20 pounder Parrott guns, being limbered up, they were
placed on plank runs on the roadway of poles across the march. Lieu
tenant Wilson and 35 men had the howitzer and one 30-pouuder in ad
vance ; Major Beard and Lieutenant Porter, with a rather larger force,
the other ibof pieces in rear. Each party had two spare planks with
which the runway was prolonged to the front. When the guns were
drawn forward with drag-ropes the rear planks were taken up and car
ried to the front. The men sink to the knees or deeper in the mud.
The planks get smeared and the guns run off, the wheels sinking to the
hubs. The men encased their feet and legs in sand bags. Captain
Gillmore returned at 1 a. m. to New River and brought a scow load of
ammunition over. The platforms and magazines at Venus Point were
ready for service by daybreak. Lieutenant Wilson's two pieces were
in position at 2.30 a. in. ; Major Beard and Lieutenant Porter's four
pieces at 8.30 a. m. (12th). Captain Gillmore was able to report (same
day) to General Sherman that Venus Point and the Savannah passage
were held by a six-gun battery erected " last night."
[In closure No. 3.]
DUNN'S PLACE, DAUFUSKIE ISLAND,
January 28, 1862—10 p. m.
General THOMAS W. SHERMAN,
Commanding Expeditionary Corps, Hilton Head, S. C. :
GENERAL : I returned to this place from an examination of Jones
Island about an hour since and have received your two communica
tions. I landed on Jones Island from Mud River about half a mile from
the upper point of island, and there struck a course due south, through
the marsh, to the Savannah River, and thence down the river to within
about 150 yards of the Coast Survey towrer on Venus Point, where farther
progress was arrested by a deep creek. Below this creek and between
it and Venus Point the land is evidently not so good for batteries as it
is just above the creek. Here batteries can be erected. The surface
has not been submerged by any recent tides. It is at least 18 inches
above ordinary high w^ater. I shall propose to General Viele and Cap
tain Hamilton to take sand enough in bags from Daufuskie Island to
raise the platforms 8 or 10 inches above the natural surface. Sand bags
to cover the magazine can also be filled at Daufuskie. The embrasures
(if any are made) and the interior slope of the parapet need not be
revetted with bags, as the soil is mostly used and will stand very well.
Under the protection of gunboats all the guns in the lighters can be
placed on shore and in battery in one night. It will not be necessary
to crowd the guns very near each other, and I would prefer to have them
some distance apart and to cover them as soon as possible with splinter-
proofs. The men to erect and man the battery can be made comfortable
by raising the ground on which they pitch their tents (to keep them
above the water) and by using in the tents plenty of swamp grass as a
substitute for straw. It will answer the purpose very well. I have not
been able to communicate with General Viele or Captain Hamilton since
CHAP. XXVI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. UNION. 327
my return, but will do so the first tiling in the morning. If the gun
boats go through to-morrow the battery ought to be erected to-morrow
night. My impression is that they will not go through until advices are
received from the commodore. With our present knowledge of the river
above Jones Island and the unknown difficulties connected with a lodg
ment on Elba Island I think the position proposed the best one known
for closing Savannah Eiver. If no move is made by the gunboats to
morrow I shall try to examine Elba to-morrow night. The Peinbiua had
not passed the Cut at 7 o'clock this evening. Our gunboats in Wilming
ton Narrows range from the Tybee, Martello Tower, just to the right of
Fort Pulaski. I ascertained this from Colonel Eosa last evening. I
took their bearing from the Uuadilla to-day. By plotting these two
bearings on the Coast Survey chart I find their distance from the center
to channel opposite Venus Point to be 2J miles. They cannot do much
at this distance.
Very .respectfully, your obedient servant,
Q. A. GILLMOKE,
Brigadier- General and Chief Engineer Expeditionary Corps.
[Inclosure No. 4.J
STEAMER MCCLELLAN,
Port Royal, 8. C., January 29, 1862.
Brigadier-General GILLMORE,
Commanding Engineers, Daufuskie Island :
GENERAL, : Your communication of last night is received. Before
deciding upon a site for battery you will of course make further exam
ination. Examine northern end of Long Island; Elba Island if you
can. After all it is quite probable that it will be decided that Venus
Point or vicinity is the place. Your suggestion of having this battery
put up in one night meets my views exactly. General Viele has force
enough there to render any amount of assistance. The commodore will
send another gunboat to Captain Eodgers to-day, and I hope two of
them. You say nothing further of putting up a battery at the cut. It
is hoped it will be found unnecessary. But you are the engineer of the
expedition, and this is an affair of engineers, and that much will depend
on what you deem best on the spot. Communicate with me rapidly
when necessary, and confer with Brigadier-General Viele and chief of
artillery in everything you undertake. I write General Viele so as to
iifsure a frank co-operation between you. I am anxious that the chan
nel should be stopped as soon as practicable, but of course you are
somewhat dependent on the movements of the Navy.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
T. W. SHEEMAN,
[Brigadier- General]
[Inclosnre No. 5.]
DAUFUSKIE ISLAND,
Wednesday Evening, January 29, 1862.
Brig. Gen. THOMAS W. SHERMAN,
Commanding Expeditionary Corps, Hilton Head, 8. C. :
GENERAL : I have your letter from on board the McClellan at Port
Eoyal. I am sorry to say that the Navy appear discouraged at the
prospect of going round Cunningham Point. I have not seen Captain
Eodgers to-day, but have just returned from the Pembiiia. Captain
328 COASTS OF S. C , GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [Ciui-. XXVI.
Bankbead reports 4 feet water at low tide around Cuimingham Point.
A shot from Fort Pnlaski fell within 30 yards of his launch while sound
ing. Captain Bankhead also informed me that he saw very plainly this
morning at 11 o'clock two steamers towing a large wreck into Saint
Augustine Creek. This, with the piles reported to have been encount
ered by Captain Davis (as Bankhead informs me), looks like a very
serious obstacle in Saint Augustine Creek. I learn that our gunboats
have all left there. No boats have passed to or from Pulaski to-day.
One went down and back last night. No guns have yet been put in
battery at the Cut. Captain Hamilton thinks that two 30 pounder
Parrotts can be towed down early to-morrow morning. If deemed
necessary they will be put in position. I look anxiously for additional
light-draught gunboats, something that can get through on 9 feet water.
If the Wright River route turns out to be impracticable (or decided
to be so) I believe our lightest-draught gunboats can go down Mud
Biver on. a high tide, and (without going into the Savannah) can cover
our erection of batteries on Jones Island. I also think, from what the
contrabands say, that a side-wheel steamer running up and down Mud
River will deepen the channel very much. The bottom is very soft; a
10-pound lead sinks 1J feet into the mud. Suppose we try this plan :
Failing in all these plans I propose to build a dike causeway across the
lower or the upper end of Jones Island (from Wright or Mud River)
and carry our guns across to Venus Point. This is of course a dernier
ressort. The alternative may be to take our flats into Savannah River
without protection. Lieutenant O'Rorke and Major Beard are now out,
with instructions to examine the upper end of Long Island and the
lower end of Elba. To-morrow morning I shall go down Wright River
to examine Jones Island at the lower end up to the beacon. I could
not approach it from the upper end on account of a creek, as I stated
last eve.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
Q. A. GILLMORE,
Captain and Chief Engineer.
P. S. — My command is now engaged in making fascines and gabions.
[Indosnre No. 6.]
DAUFUSKIE ISLAND, S. C., Jan. 30, 1862—7.30 p. m.
Brig. Gen. THOMAS W. SHERMAN,
Commanding Expeditionary Corps, Hilton Head, S. C. :
SIB: I have to report the safe return of Lieutenant O'Rorke (accom
panied by Major Beard) from an examination of Long Island and Elba
Island. I inclose a memorandum furnished by Lieutenant O'Rorke in
advance of his report. The position near the upper end of Long Island
is favorable for the erection of a battery should one there be deemed
necessary or advisable.
In my report of last evening I suggested the expediency of building
a causeway to Venus Point (if a battery be put there), connecting with
Mud or Wright River. I have caused the line running from Venus
Point due north to Mud River to be examined to-day. A causeway can
be easily constructed over that line. The line to Wright River will be
examined to-morrow morning. Even if the Navy cover our erection of
batteries on Venus Point, we want a line of communication with the
rear other than by water through Mud or Wright Rivers, inasmuch as
we might lose the control of the mouths of these streams in the absence
CHAP. XXVI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. UNION. 329
of a naval force. This would certainly be easily taken from us as re
gards Mud Eiver, as the enemy's gunboats could sweep it without coming
within range of Venus Point battery. Moreover, if any advance move
ment should meet with disaster, and we should be under the necessity
of falling back with the Venus Point guns, it would be next to impos
sible to take them off via Mud or Wright Rivers through their mouths.
The causeway can be constructed 9 feet wide in one week by hurrying
the work.
I am still of the opinion that Mud Eiver can be deepened very much
by running a side-wheel steamer up and down the stream. The bottom
is very soft and the tide very strong. The guns have not been put in
position at Wall's Cut.
Captain Hamilton writes on this matter:
The Unadilla and Pembiua arc both within the Cut, that is, this side of it, the for
mer having left her advanced position.
Captain Hamilton's suggestion to tow the Keating down to the posi
tion occupied by Captain Eodgers, and put three or perhaps four guns
in working order on her deck, I cordially indorse, provided Captain
Eodgers will take charge of her in the absence of any towing facilities
of our own.
I shall return to Hilton Head to-morrow morning in the Mayflower.
She will discharge here early in the morning, having just arrived from
the Winfield Scott. I shall set my force at work cutting stuff for the
causeway to-morrow morning in anticipation of your approval of this
project.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant.
Q. A. GILLMOEE,
Brigadier- General and Chief Engineer.
[Inclosure No. 7.]
Memorandum by Lieutenant O'Rorke.
Left Daufuskie Island at 4.30 p. in. on 29th ; left Unadilla 5.30 p. m
After passing south end Jones Island steered due west and landed
about 100 yards north of the beacon on Long Island ; beacon is about
one-half way from one end to the other. Found a soil of dry brown
clay, with a substratum of black mold ; surface of ground about 2 J feet
above high water. Best ground and best position, as far as could be
determined in the dark, about 100 yards south of the north point of
island. Next rowed carefully up the river to Elba Island; had some
difficulty in finding it in consequence of inaccuracy of map. Finally
rowed lip to north end of it, landing about six times and exainin
shore and adjacent ground. Found shore impracticable for landing
without causewaying out; ground above the upper half of island all a
soft marsh, not practicable for batteries. Eeturned to a point just
south of mouth of Mml Eiver, arriving just before daylight,
the boat ashore and crossed the island to the Georgia side ; traveled
about 1 mile north of tie point at which we landed. Ground on Georgia
flnclosuro Xo. 8.]
HDQRS. EXPEDITIONARY CORPS, Feb. 4, 1862.
General GILLMOEE, Chief Engineer, Commanding:
GENERAL: Yours is received. I am just from the Wabash. Cap-
330 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVI.
t:iin Eodgers has received orders to enter at once and cover the con
struct ion of the battery. Expedition No. 2 will not get off before Thurs
day, Friday, or Saturday. I'll let you know in due time. In the mean
time I shall be anxious to hear of the success in putting up the battery
in one night. It will do you eternal honor. If Captain Eodgers retains
all his gunboats that he covers you with I shall probably not join you;
but I shall see. Keport promptly what use can be made of Long Island
to best advantage. We shall get some hulks down there as soon as
possible, but probably not till after Expedition Ko. 2. In the mean
while suggest to Eodgers and Yiele to get the brig from the Cut down
there in the channel between Long Island and Georgia shore.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant.
T. W. SHERMAN,
Brigadier- (General, Commanding.
If you have any time before Eodgers gets ready (and it is hoped not)
you had better commence causeway, if the enemy won't discover you too
much.
T. W. S.
[Inclosure Xo. 9.]
HDQRS. CHIEF ENGINEER'S OFFICE, S. C.,
Daufuskie Island, February 4, 1862—8.30 a. m.
Brig. Gen. THOMAS W. SHERMAN,
Commanding Expeditionary Corps, Hilton Head, S. C.:
GENERAL : I have to report my arrival here last night at 10 o'clock
in a row-boat. The Mayflower was coaling at Seabrook and nearly
through. We are looking for her here now. The examination of Jones
Island from Venus Point to Wright River (in the shortest line) develops
the fact that the portion of Jones Island next Wright Eiver, extending
about one-quarter of a mile from the stream, is very low, soft, badly cut
up with creeks and marshy spots, and is unsuitable for a causeway. No
good landing place can be found on Wright Eiver without giving an
undue length to the causeway. I therefore have made up my mind that
if a road is to be constructed it must be directed upon Mud Eiver. We
are now ready to commence the work on the island. Ten thousand poles
of 5 to 6 inches in diameter have been cut, of which 1,900 have been
transported to the new dock or wharf, ready to go on board of lighters
or to be made into rafts, as circumstances may require. About 1,800
of the cut poles can be carried to the shore daily, the men to do this
themselves, as there are no other means of land transportion here at
present that can be put upon such work; The average distance to be
carried is about 1 mile. I await orders from you to go on with the
causeway. The wharf here will be finished to-day. It has 8 feet water
at low tide at the head of it, and is strong enough to land everything
on except heavy guns.
The gunboats have not returned from Kew Eiver yet. I expect to
pull up in that direction to-day. Captain Sears takes a party to Jones
sland to-day to cut a wide zigzag swath through the reeds in a line
running from Mud Eiver across the narrow part of the island to the
Savannah, in order that a fire communicated to the reeds at the upper
end of the island shall not spread over the portion where the causeway
> to be run. The enemy has seen us in Mud Eiver, as reported by con
trabands captured yesterday, and may watch our operations closely.
The temptation to fire the long grass could be easily gratified at any
CHAP. XXVI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. UNION. 331
time, but would probably be carried into effect neac,the mouth of Mud
River. Lieutenant O'Rorke will probably come to Hilton Head to-day
for a few hours on some private business, and will report himself to you.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
Q. A. GILLMORE,
Brigadier- General, Chief Engineer, Engineer Corps.
[Inclosure No. 10.]
DAUFUSKIE ISLAND, S. 0., February 6, 1862.
Brig. .Gen. THOMAS W. SHERMAN,
Commanding Engineer Corps, Hilton Head, S. C. :
GENERAL : There is very little news here to report. The gunboats
have made no move forward, not having yet 'received orders to do so.
Yesterday I went up to Eed Bank in the Hale to examine the works
there. They possess no special interest, and the sketch taken by Major
Beard will perhaps furnish you with all necessary information. The
work in the rear was intended for one columbiad, but it had not been
put in position. The two guns in the other work had been removed.
My orderly followed me up New River in a row-boat. As he approached
Box's house a squad of 70 to 75 cavalry appeared on the beach and
opened fire on the boat. They were all mounted and equipped. They
remained about Box's place until the gunboat approached on her return
from Red Bank. They then left.
The day before yesterday, as my men were cutting a swath across
Jones Island to prevent the spread of fire 3 men were observed on the
upper end of the island, one of them being up a tree looking around.
They certainly mistrust something in that direction. The transporta
tion of the poles for causeway still goes on, but as nearly all the fatigue
force of the command is on this work nothing has yet been done on
Jones Island in the way of laying them. I have, however, constructed
a plank walk across to Venus Point, over which I can transport, by hand
or in barrows, sand bags and plank for the platforms. We want more
force here if a battery is to be erected on Long Island during the con
struction of the one on Jones Island. The laying of the causeway will
be commenced to-day. Would it not be proper to make the exchange
of Captain Sears' and Captain Place's companies while the latter is in
waiting at Seabrook ? I am retaining Captain Sears here until I hear
from you.
Captain Hamilton and myself have concluded that an equal division
of the armament brought along should be made between Venus Point
and Long Island, leaving out the brass 24-pouuder howitzer altogether.
General Viele approves this.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
Q. A. GILLMORE,
Brigadier -General and Chief Engineer, Engineer Corps.
[In closure No. 11.]
DAUFUSKIE ISLAND, S. C.,
February 6, 1862.
Brig. Gen. THOMAS W. SHERMAN,
Commanding Expeditionary Corps, Hilton Head, /S. C.:
GENERAL: I have nothing new to report this p. m. It is so rough
and windy that no great progress will be made to-day in transporting
332 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVI.
road ami buttery -materials to Venus Point. An examination of the
upper end of Bird Island will be made to-night. It is directly opposite
Venus Point, while the upper end of Long Island is somewhat below.
1 do not object to Long Island for a battery simply because it is lower
down tin- river than Venus Point, but am inclined to favor it on that
account, as we can keep boats attempting to pass through the river
longer under fire than if the batteries were directly opposite each other.
I have just returned from Venus Point. I propose to put the guns there
about 40 feet apart, with traverses between them. A longer develop
ment would unduly increase the labor of constructing the levee around
the battery to keep oat the water. The fatigue parties here will be mostly
iMiiiaged in carrying over to Venus Point such portions of the battery
material as will forward the construction of the work while the Navy
arc awaiting their orders. I prefer to apply the force in this way than
to work exclusively on the causeway, as it is not expected that the
guns will be carried across Jones Island. I propose to place each gun
on a grillage of poles 20 feet square. The weight per square foot will
be less than 15 pounds. It will be advisable to inclose the battery, so
that it can resist an assault, and after we get time each gun can be
covered over to secure the men against the fragments of shells explod
ing over the battery. It will be necessary to inclose the battery with a
parapet, at any rate, in order to keep out high tides, and it will be easy
to convert this parapet into an obstacle that will require some time to
surmount.
A rebel boat passed down Saint Augustine Creek and back to-day.
Tbe two towers near the mouth of Saint Augustine Creek are for the
telegraph wires to pass over on, as I am informed by contrabands who
worked upon them.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
Q. A. GILLMORE,
Brigadier -General Volunteers and Chief Engineer.
P. S. — Lf the two engineer companies for Wassaw are to be retained
long on the Star of the South had they not better be sent up here (or
at least one of them) to help in the work temporarily!
[Inclosure Xo. 12.]
CHIEF ENGINEER'S OFFICE EXPEDITIONARY CORPS,
Daufuskie Island, S. <?., February 9, 1862.
Brig. Gen. THOMAS W. SHERMAN,
Comag. U. S. Forces, Hilton Head, S. C. :
GENERAL: I have to report no important change in the position of
affairs here, so far as they relate to my department, since my communi
cation of day before yesterday. We are still in condition — as we have
been for the last thirteen days — to erect and put in serviceable and effi
cient readiness for action batteries on Jones and Long Islands that
will thoroughly blockade the Savannah River within twenty-four hours
after the gunboats enter that stream. My efforts for the last three days
have been directed to preparations for attaining this object without the
assistance of the Navy, in case circumstances should arise to deprive us
of their co-operation, but our limited means of transportation on this
island have so far absorbed the available strength of the fatigue force
in carrying poles for the Jones Island causeway that the actual laying
of the road has not yet been commenced. I have a very good wheel
barrow track across the island to Venus Point. I have taken as much
CHAP. XXVI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. — UNION. 333
battery material there as I care to trust in so exposed a position until
the road on which to transport the guns is completed or the gunboats
in Savannah Eiver. I have also a very considerable quantity of ma
terials ashore at the landing at Mud Eiver. The balance of what will
be required for the Venus Point battery is in boats within half an hour's
row of the Mud Eiver landing, so that I am prepared to complete the
platforms and magazines of that battery within six hours after the gun
boats enter the Savannah. As this movement is certainly expected to
take place very soon, perhaps within the next twenty-four hours, it is
not presumed that the guns will be carried over the causeway. I am
not therefore pushing it with that end in view, but shall carry it for
ward with as little delay as possible. What I expect to gain by land
ing battery materials on Jones Island now is time, for as soon as the
lighters are left at Venus Point with the guns for that battery the
Mayflower can proceed directly to Long Island with the materials re
quired for the work there. I think our row-boats on Mud Eiver have
been seen. Our gunboats (except one, I believe) passed the Cut yester
day. I am told that they intend to try the Mud Eiver passage into the
Savannah. The Mayflower hove in sight last evening, but still remains
near the \\7 infield Scott."
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
Q. A. GILLMOEE,
Brig. Gen. Vols., Chief Engineer Expeditionary Corps.
[Inclosure No. 13.]
DAUFUSKIE ISLAND, S. 0., Feb. 12, 1862.
General THOMAS W. SHERMAN,
Comdg. Expeditionary Corps, Hilton Head, 8. C. :
GENERAL: Venus Point and the Savannah passage is held by a six-
gun battery erected by us last night. If everything goes on well Long
Island will be similarly occupied to-morrow night. I will write to
morrow more in detail.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
Q. A. GILLMOEE,
Brigadier- General and Chief Engineer.
GENERAL ORDERS, ) HDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF THE SOUTH,
No. 7. } Fort PulasM, Cockspur Island, April 13, 1862.
All persons of color lately held to involuntary service by enemies of
the United States in Fort Pulaski and on Cockspur Island, Georgia,
are hereby confiscated and declared free, in conformity with law, and
shall .hereafter receive the fruits of their own labor. Such of said per
sons of color as are able-bodied and may be required shall be employed
in the quartermaster's department at the rates heretofore establ
by Brig. Gen. T. W. Sherman.
By command of Maj. Gen. D. Hunter:
Assistant A djutant- General.
SAINT AUGUSTINE, FLA., April 15, 1862.
Brig. Gen. H. W. BENHAM,
Comdg. Northern District. Department of the South :
I have the honor to report that (finding a constant communication
334 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVI.
was kept up between the inhabitants of this city and the enemy and
that the members of the city government would not assist me in pre
venting it) I placed the city under martial law on the 12th instant.
The day after a re-enforcement of four companies of my regiment ar
rived. I should have replaced the city officials in power had not the
feeling among the citizens been that they desired martial law to still
remain. I am pleased to be able to report that no ill-feeling or difficulty
has arisen between the citizens and the men of my command, and that
not an instance of any insult or unpleasant feeling has taken place. I
have prohibited any person passing the line of my command with
out taking the oath "of allegiance. Fort Marion has now mounted two
8-inch sea-coast howitzers, one 32-pouuder gun, four ironG-pounder guns,
one brass (5-pounder gun, one 24-pounder siege howitzer, and a Wiard
ritled gun. Lieutenant Tardy, U. S. Corps Engineers, has arrived at
this post and taken charge of putting the fort in a state of defense.
Lieutenant Tardy intends to mount two 8-inch columbiads on the fort.
With the ordnance stores I have drawn a requisition for I can defend
the post against all the enemy now in arms in Florida. I have the
honor to request instructions as to slaves belonging to disloyal men. T
have retained such slaves, furnishing them with food and compelling
them to work, and simply excluding other slaves from the fort. This
city is in a most lamentable condition with respect to food. I have been
compelled to issue Government provisions to families to prevent them
from perishing from hunger. I have the honor to request instructions
as to whether such issues will be permitted. Five deserters from the
enemy have come in ; no information of any importance has been got
from them, except that one of the Saint Augustine companies wished to
lay down their arms and surrender. I have used every effort to inform
them that they might return here and remain unmolested.
I take the liberty of suggesting again that the ordnance stores I have
drawn a requisition for are very necessary for the defense of my post.
I have the honor to be, sir, your obedient servant,
LOUIS BELL,
Lieut. Col., Comdg. Fourth New Hampshire Volunteers,
Commanding Post of Saint Augustine.
HDQRS. NORTHERN DISTRICT, DEPT. OF THE SOUTH,
Hilton Head) S. C., April 17, 1862.
Flag-Officer S. F. DuPoNT,
U. S. Wavy, U. 8. S. Wabash, Port Royal Harbor :
SIR : I have the pleasure of saying in reply to your letter of this date
that there will be no objection to withdrawing the one gunboat as you
propose from Wassaw. But as General Hunter and myself feel that it
may be important to keep the enemy on the alert at Savannah, we would
be glad if you would spare as many as you can conveniently of those
least valuable for your other purposes, which boats might, without ex
posure to themselves, by constant movements, as if of reconnaissance,
if so directed by yourself, keep the enemy either from any approaches
toward us here or from diverting his troops to Charleston.
The reconnaissance or the affair you heard of it seems was made by
the order of Brigadier-General Gillmore to Wilmington Island by Lieu
tenant Wilson, Topographical Engineers, escorted by 400 men of Colonel
Feutou's Eighth Michigan. They lost 10 or 12 killed and 35 wounded,
CHAP. XXVI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. — UNION. 335
as reported to me, and our men claim to have driven a regiment of 800
men to the extreme point of the island, holding the battle ground for
three hours and returning unmolested. I am not satisfied yet to ex
press an opinion on the matter.
I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
. H. W. BENHAM,
Brigadier -General, Commanding.
HDQRS. NORTHERN DIST., DEPT. OF THE SOUTH,
Hilton Head, 8. C., April 18, 18G2.
Brig. Gen. Q. A. GILLMORE,
Commanding Tybee and Fort Pulaslci, Ga. :
GENERAL : The general commanding directs me to acknowledge your
report* inclosing the details of the reconnaissance made by Lieutenant
Wilson, Topographical Engineers, under your orders on the [ICth in
stant].
Although presuming you had reasons for ordering that reconnaissance
which are not stated in your report or otherwise known to him, he feels
it due to himself to say that, notwithstanding he had received informa
tion that the enemy were in force to the amount of at least two regi
ments on that island, he did not deem it necessary to attack them then
beyond our marshes and next their main -land. He had therefore, as
you recollect, on the day after the surrender of Fort Pulaski, directed
you yourself to send the Eighth Michigan Eegiment to Fort Pulaski
to assist, with a company each of engineers and artillery, in putting
that work in a state of defense as early as possible and to dismantle
and destroy all the batteries on Tybee Island, and to forward all the
ordnance and ordnance stores to this post that you did not deem it nec
essary to retain at Fort Pulaski for its complete armament. He also
directed that the Forty-sixth New York Eegiment alone should be left
to garrison Tybee Island, and that the other troops should be sent to
Daufuskie to report to General Viele, and the balance of the forces
then ordered to this post to report to Col. Eobert Williams.
In conclusion, the general desires to say that while not doubting that
this reconnaissance has been ordered from your best motives and judg
ment, and that he is not disposed to do otherwise than praise it, he still
is compelled to feel that, as far as at present informed, the results that
appear to have been anticipated or actually gathered from it, either from
information gained or the known injury to the enemy, are not 9, com
pensation for the great loss to ourselves which has been suffered in this
affair. It is trusted, however, that your detailed report will enable the
matter to be better understood.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
A. B. ELY,
Acting Assistant Adjutant- General.
HDQRS. EDISTO ISLAND, S. C., April 21, 1862.
Capt. A. B. ELY,
A. A. A. G., Hdqrs. Northern Dist., Hilton Head, 8. C.:
CAPTAIN : I have the honor to report that after a tedious and pro
tracted passage I reached this place to day and have assumed the coin-
~~* See report of General Gillmore of skirmish at Whitemarsh Island, Ga., p. 5.
336 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST>LA. [CHAP.
inand. Soon after my arrival, and after conferring with Colonel Fel
lows, to whom 1 am indebted for much valuable information concerning
this command, I visited the principal stations of the advanced troops,
and examined, so far as time permitted, the portion of the island lying
nearest to Little Edisto, and also that island, as well as a small island
still beyond, called Whoopdug Island, over which the road passes lead
ing to Dawho Ferry. The troops of the command I find to be dis
tributed as follows :
Third New Hampshire Eegiment at Mitchell's plantation, marked A
on the sketch herewith,* which furnishes pickets of one company at &,
one company at c, two companies at d.
Forty-seventh New York Eegimeut on Little Edisto Island, which it
pickets, besides supplying a guard of 100 men at the lower landing,
marked e.
Ninety-seventh Pennsylvania Eeginient near lower landing. %
Fifty-fifth Pennsylvania Eegiment near lower lauding, except two
companies, which are serving with the Third New Hampshire.
One company of Massachusetts cavalry is posted not far from the two
regiments last named, but I have not yet visited its camp. The bat
tery of the Ehode Island regiment is divided, and is serving with the
Third New Hampshire and Forty-seventh New York Eegimeuts.
At Otter Island, which I visited on my way here, are two companies
of the Forty -fifth Pennsylvania Eegiment ; two other companies are on
Fenwick's Island and one on Ea"ccoon Island.
The headquarters of the command are at Seabrook's house, marked/.
From the foregoing it will be perceived that the command is much
scattered, covering much more ground and being much more distant
from mutual support than could be desired. My first impulse was to
concentrate it so that the whole could act together in the event of
attack ; but the reasons assigned for the present distribution, referring
mainly to the topographical features of the position, have determined
me to await further examination before making a change.
The information regarding the position and strength of the enemy's
forces is very indefinite. In general terms, however, he is in possession
of the territory on the right, ascending the North Edisto River to the
Dawho and up the Dawho to the South Edisto, his scouts or pickets
showing themselves occasionally on Jehossee Island.
Pickets are maintained by the rebels on Seabrook Island, at Eock-
vill<>, at the mouth of Seadenwak Creek, at Bear's Bluff, and at White
Point opposite, at Dawho Ferry, and at the junction of the Dawho and
South Edisto Rivers, his main positions being at Willstown, Adams
Run, Church Flats, and Legareville.
Colonel Fellows reports that he has not been able to obtain any infor
mation of importance in relation to the country, the routes and the
positions, and strength of the enemy between this^point and Charleston.
As he goes to Hilton Head he wilfbe able to explain personally in ref
erence to this an -I other matters. Only one contraband has come in
since he assumed the command.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
H. G. WEIGHT,
Brigadier- General, Commanding.
P. S. — Colonel Fellows will explain the reason for keeping the de
tachment of 100 men of the Forty-seventh New York at the lower
lauding.
* Not found.
dm*. XXVI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. — UNION. 337
HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE SOUTH,
Hilton Head, April 22, 18<»2.
Hon. E. M. STANTON,
Secretary of War :
SIR: 1 Lave the honor to inclose you an editorial from the Savannah
Republican of yesterday. From this you will see that they are fully
aware of our situation. From the best information I can obtain the
enemy have 30,000 at Savannah, 25,000 at Charleston, and 10,000 at Au
gusta — 65,000 — which they can concentrate at any one point in twenty-
four hours. Why they do not attack us, knowing as they do onr situa
tion, is a mystery to me. We have less than 10,000 mer^ow ready for
the field scattered along the coast for 200 miles. Hoping daily for re-
enforcements, and hoping the enemy might be ignorant of our situation,
I have been reluctant to disturb the present disposition of the troops,
knowing the bad effect of abandoning places once occupied. I know
you are anxious to send me re-enforcements as soon as it is in your
power, but if you are unable to do so I shall deem it my imperative
duty to somewhat concentrate my command, holding only on this coast
Saint Augustine, Fernandina, Pulaski, and Hilton Head. With proper
re-enforcements I confidently hope to report to you in a few weeks the
fall of Sumter, Charleston, and Savannah.
I inclose a note this moment received from Beaufort. The enemy have
also appeared in force on Pinckney Island.
I have the honor to be. very respectfully, your obedient servant,
D. HUNTER,
Major- General, Commanding.
[Inclosures.]
ALL QUIET. — We received not a word of news yesterday by tele
graph from any quarter up to dark. A profound quiet seems to have
rested over our armies at all points for the last few days. It may be
and probably is the awful stillness that precedes the storm. The rela
tive positions of the two combatants, both in the West and East, are such
that a collision is obliged to result in the course of a very few days.
Both parties, too, are ready for a grand strife that is to determine the
fate of the great American revolution. Mighty consequences hang upon
the movements in the Peninsula and in West Tennessee, and we hope
the Southern troops are fully alive to the responsibility resting upon
them.
On the banks of the Savannah all seems quiet too. The enemy, few
in numbers, are still lying in our lower river, and so far as seen no re-
enforcements have reached them. They have not a force equal to an
attack on the city, and its augmentation would seem inconsistent with
the pressing demands from other points at the present time. McClellan
will need every man he can draw into the field for his operations in the
Peninsula, and the Federal exigencies out West are equally pressing
for all the troops at their command. Meanwhile we are not idle. The
military authorities here are using all means in their power to strengthen
our defenses and make them impregnable. Come in what numbers he
may, the enemy will have his hands full in his march upon Savannah.
A gunboat came up Freeborn's Cut yesterday forenoon to within
about 2 miles of our battery at Carston's Bluff, but no gun was firedon
either side. A Federal propeller also came up the river yesterday and
fired a shot in the direction of Mackay's Point, but it fell far short of
the mark.
22 R R— VOL xiy
338 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CiiAr. XXVL
BEAUFORT, April 22, 1862.
Lieutenant KEEN AN:
The rebels have been shelling our troops at the ferry since 5 o'clock
a. in. Our battery has just gone out.
HOWARD,
Lieutenant.
The ferry referred to in the above note is Port Royal Ferry, at the
north end of Port Royal Island.
D. HUNTER,
Major- General. Commanding.
Abstract from Return of the Department of the South, Maj. Gen. D. Hunter commanding,
for April 30, 1862; headquarters Hilton Head, S. C.
Command.
Present for
duty.
Aggregate present.
Officers.
1
12
4
12
4
7
3,070
7
3,874
7
3,616
6
2,133
2, 967
1,123
71
92
Hilton Head. S. C., Brig. Gen. H. ~W. Beuham commanding Northern District:
Staff
Daufuskio, Jones, and Bird Islands, Brig. Gen. E. L. Viele commanding :
Staff
7
113
7
127
7
2,662
"3,144
Beaufort, S. C., Brig. Gen. I. I. Stevens:
Staff
Fort Eclisto and Otter Islands, Brig. Gen. H. G. Wright :
Staff
Command ...
135
6
85
102
37
2
6
3,265
"l,832"
2,331
979
64
* 73
Tybeo and Cockspur Islands, Fort Pulaski, Ga., Brig. Gen. Q. A. Gillmore:
Staff
Command
Hilton Head and Fort, Welles Col. Robert Williams
Fornandina Fla Col II Rich
Saint Augustine, Fla., Lieut. Col. Louis Boll
Fort Seward S. C Lieut Col S K Bucklin
Total
650
14, 350
16, 989
This report embraces only the troops in the Northern District of the department. No return has as
yet been received from Toi tugas, Key West, or Fort Pickens.
HDQKS. WESTERN DISTRICT, D'EPT. OF THE SOUTH,
Fort Pickens, Fla., May 1, 1862.
Maj. CHARLES G. HALPINE,
Asst. Adjt. Gen., U. S. Vols., Hdqrs. Dept. of the South:
MAJOR: I have the honor to transmit herewith inclosed copies of
reports that I have made to the Headquarters of the Army, Washing
ton, and correspondence between flag-officers Farragut and McKean,
Generals Butler and Brannan, and myself relative to military affairs
in the Department of Florida,* As the best mode of correctly informing:
Major-General Hunter, commanding Department of the South, of the
situation of my command at this time and the relations existing be
tween it and the rebels on the opposite side, as an apparent change has
taken place since my report to the War Department dated Headquar-
Department of Florida, April 24, 186:2, I will add that I was in-
* Reference is probably to correspondence printed in. Series I, Vol. VI.
CIIAI-. XXVI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. UNION. 339
formed some time since and again very recently, by a refugee who
escaped three days ago from the rebel side, that the Governor of Ala
bama keeps a reserve of about 6,000 men at Pollard (where there is an
arsenal or depot for powder and munitions of war), about 35 miles by
rail from Peusacola, these troops, &c., to be sent to Mobile or Pensacola
when either place is attacked. The report that the rebels opposite had
abandoned their line of defense, forts, batteries, navy-yard, and Pen
sacola, is unfounded. From my own observation and the best informa
tion I have been able to obtain they have never abandoned their forts,
batteries, &c., opposite, but have always kept there one regiment of
old troops — a Mississippi regiment, about 800 or 1,000 strong, com
manded by Colonel Jones, a graduate of West Point, which was soon
re-enforced by 2,000 or 3,000 new levies, armed with rifles and shot
guns. The strength of the enemy, however, does not consist in numbers,
but in his position, forts, &c., and having but a small force against him,
occupying a defensive position on an island separated by a broad sheet
of water, with no suitable transportation nor naval co-operation. The
Navy has not had for the past two months any vessel of war off this
harbor that could assist me in any offensive movement, and none what
ever except the sloop of war Vincenues, and she but a small portion of
the time.
I will act on the offensive as soon as I have the means of doing so;
till then it would be folly to attempt it, if not impossible to do so. I
desire to call the attention of General Hunter to the great necessity of
furnishing my chief quartermaster with a steamboat of 200 or 300 tons,
drawing not over 10 feet of water, for a dispatch boat, to tow flats with
troops on board, &c., and some additional surf-boats and oars.
I have under my command about 2,000 men, on an island, and not a
steamboat or sail vessel of any kind, and not surf-boats enough to land
stores for the command. I directed my chief quartermaster to require
of the Quartermaster's Department a steamboat from 200 to 300 tons
burden for a dispatch boat, and twelve surf-boats 30 feet long, and one
hundred oars 15 feet long, in February last, but have received no re
sponse.
When Flag-officer Farragut has taken New Orleans his squadron will
be available to co-operate with the Army against Mobile and Pensacola;
both places should be attacked, or one threatened and the other at
tacked, at the same time, on account of the easy communication between
I inclose a letter* of mine to Brigadier-General Branuan relative to
his sending one or two regiments to me from Key West. I shall want
more troops if I take the offensive.
I am, major, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
• lj. (jr. A.l"\j-IN OJuJJ,
Brigadier-General, U. S. Volunteers, Commanding.
HEADQUARTERS,
Edisto Island, 8. C.. May 3, 18G2.
A. A. A. £.', Hdqrs. Northern Dist., Hilton Head, 8. C. :
CAPTAIN: I have the honor to report that nothing of interest has
occurred within the limit of my command since the date of my lasi
communication.
* Not found.
340 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVL
Intelligence received through contrabands indicates that the enemy
has no force of any importance at Willstown or in the region to the
westward of that place and below the railroad, as they agree that
the troops were sent off by railroad soon after the fall of Pulaski.
The euemy still keeps up his force at Adams Run, but his strength
I cannot 'ascertain. It probably does not exceed two regiments,
however.
On the 29th instant Captain Rhiud, senior naval officer on this sta
tion, made a very dashing and successful reconnaissance of the Dawho
Eiver in the gunboat Hale, Captain Gillis, attacking and, capturing a
battery of the enemy mounting two 24 pounder guns without the loss
of a man. This battery, situated on GrinibalPs estate, on the north side
of the Dawho River, and about 2 miles below its junction with the
South Edisto, is represented by Captain Rhind to have been well built
and susceptible of a much stronger defense than was made by the en
emy. As it stood some 300 yards from the bank of the river, with soft
marsh intervening, it was impossible for him to bring off the guns, and
he therefore burned the carriages and platform, after disabling one of
the guns by firing the other against it and spiking both with files. The
powder he brought away. As the existence and position of this bat
tery was known I was desirous of aiding, by a land force, in its cap
ture; but as Captain Rhind had as strong a force of his own as could
be used to advantage no troops were sent. On his return he was At
tacked by the infantry and field artillery of the enemy at a point below
the site of the battery where the fast laud, covered with woods, ap
proaches close to the bank. The position seemed to have been well
chosen, and it is almost a miracle that no one on board was hit. One of
his guns was partially disabled by a shot from the enemy's artillery and
another shot passed through the smoke-stack of the steamer. The es
cape from all casualties seems to have been due to the prudent forecast
of Captain Rhind in covering his men, he having suspected that an
attack might be made on him at that very point. The darkness likewise
favored him. As he returned the fire from his broadside guns, loaded
with canister, shrapnel, and shell, it is probable that the enemy suffered
severe!}'.
I have not been able to obtain any late information in regard to
the enemy's force between this and Charleston. No contrabands
have come in from that quarter since I arrived here, and it is next to
impossible to get intelligence through scouts sent out, as the enemy
occupies all the landing places with pickets. No reconnaissance in
force has been attempted for fear of exciting the suspicion of the ene
my in regard to our designs, and I shall not attempt to gain informa
tion in that way without the sanction of General Benharn. This I
conceive to be in accordance with his -wishes, as expressed to me in
conversation.
Some indications of malarious diseases seem to have presented them
selves amongst the troops on the upper end of the island and at Little
Edisto. and it may become necessary to withdraw the force to the lower
part of the island in the neighborhood of the sea. Nothing will be
done in this matter, however, until more certain indications of unhealthi-
ness manifest themselves.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
H. G. WRIGHT,
Brigadier- Genera ?, Commanding.
CHAP. XXVI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. — UNION. 341
WASHINGTON, May G, 18G2.
JOHN TUCKER, Esq., Fort Monroe:
Please detain until further orders all tbe transportation that mav !><>
at- *ort Monroe, Shipping Point, or elsewhere in that vicinity, and re
port how much transportation there is fit for a movement upon Charles
ton, S. G., and how much there is fit for any other purpose Give this
immediate attention.
, EDWIN M. STANTON.
GENERAL ORDERS, ) HDQRS. DEPT. OF THE SOUTH,
No. 11. f Hilton Head, Port Royal, 8. C., May 9, 18G2.
The three States of Georgia, Florida, and South Carolina, comprising
the Military Department of the South, having deliberately declared
themselves no longer under the protection of the United' States of
America, and having taken up arms against said United States, it be
came a military necessity to declare martial law. This was accordingly
done on the 25th day of April, 1862. Slavery and martial law in a free
country are altogether incompatible ; the persons in these three States,
Georgia, Florida, and South Carolina, heretofore held as slaves, are
therefore declared forever free.*
By command of Maj. Gen. D. Hunter:
[ED. W. SMITH,]
Acting Assistant Adjutant- General.
WAR DEPT., QUARTERMASTER-GENERAL'S OFFICE, -
Washington, J). C., May 10, 18G2.
Capt, C. E. FULLER,
Assistant Quartermaster Volunteers, Port Royal, 8. C. :
CAPTAIN : A copy of your letter of the 3d instant to Colonel Tomp-
kins, assistant quartermaster-general, New York, has been forwarded
to this office, in which you state, " It is proposed to have the steamers
Ben De Ford, McClellan, and Atlantic run a weekly line between Port
Royal and New York," &c., and that by direction of General Benham,
commanding, you sent the Ben De Ford to New York on the 3d instant,
ordering her to leave that port on Wednesday, May 14, unless some
great emergency or unavoidable accident occurs.
The authority of the military commander at Port Koyal does not
extend to steamers in New York Harbor.
You should discharge the loads of the expensive steamers at Port
Koyal as rapidly as possible and hasten them back to New York, where
they will be subject to the order of the Quartermaster's Department, to
return to Port Royal or not, as the general public service may require.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
M. C. MEIGS,
Quartermaster -General.
HEADQUARTERS,
Edisto Island, South Carolina, May 15, 18G2.
Col. J. H. JACKSON,
Comdg. Third Regiment New Hampshire Infantry (MitcheWs) :
Corporal Wertz, " the old scout," has just come in with a report that
* The correspondence resulting from this order will be printed in Series III, Vol. II.
342 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVI.
the rebels landed to-day on Bony-hall Island, near Simmons' place, with
a force that he estimates at 500 infantry and 100 cavalry, and came
near capturing1 him at Colonel Morris' place, where he then was. He
also tells me that he has made the same report to you and to Major
Bedel, so that you will both be on the lookout for any further move
ments of the enemy.
Assuming the general truth of the report, I must confess that the
story of the 100 cavalry taken across the South Edisto (or Pon Pon)
Kiver seems to me doubtful, for I cannot conceive any reason the enemy
can have for such a force on that island. Yet the report should not be
disregarded, and should prompt us to increased watchfulness.
If there be any truth in the statement, which I can hardly doubt, it
shows the enemy to be active. Let me know by a mounted messenger
if any further demonstration is made by the enemy.
Your report of this morning, inclosing one from Major Bedel to you,
has been received. Major Bedel's advance and demonstration upon
Jeliossee Island yesterday was of course without any authority from
me, as any instructions of that character, or indeed any other, would
have been given through you. I assume that the conduct of Major
Bedel was prompted by the most praiseworthy motives, but it cannot
be approved, as it was in open disregard of the well-known military
principle that no forward movement or demonstration must be made
without the sanction of the commander of the forces. A major-general
commanding a division of our Army would not make a movement upon
the enemy or send out a party for a forced reconnaissance without the
sanction of the general commanding all the forces, as an act of this
kind might involve the most serious consequences, such as bringing on
a general action when it was not desired or disturb the plans of a cam
paign. Other ill consequences flowing from such unauthorized pro
ceedings can be readily imagined. Should Major Bedel think at any
time any particular movement is desirable he should present his views,
so .that if approved the movement may, if necessary, be supported. I
do not mean to say that an officer in Major Bedel's position cannot
send out reconnoitering parties to ascertain the presence of an enemy,
such a course being both proper and necessary to his own security, but
this is a very different thing from moving with his main force several
miles to the front, as I understand to have been done yesterday.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
H. G. WEIGHT,
Brigadier- General, Commanding.
HDQRS. NORTHERN DISTRICT, DEPT. OF THE SOUTH,
Hilton Head, S. C., May 16, 1862.
General A. H. TERRY :
DEAR SIR : In consequence of the violation of the flag of truce on
the 14th instant by the seizure of our boat's crew while on an errand
of mercy to the rebels, and properly under such a flag of truce, you are
hereby directed to seize and hold all of their parties coming to or near
our lines on any pretense whatsoever until said boat and boat's crew
shall have been returned. If these men are not returned by the 17f h, if
you can get up an expedition in safety and secrecy to capture the picket
of the rebels upon Saint Augustine Creek at its mouth you are hereby
authorized to do so, and a written notice may be left to the command-
UIIAP. XXVI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. — UNION. 343
ini;- officer of tlie rebels stating that these prisoners, such as you may
capture, will be held responsible for the safe return of our men, anil
that until their return no flags of truce or other communication can b<«
permitted with men who have so grossly violated the laws of war.
The pretense of the absence of a commissioned officer or of the national
flag, while a white flag was flying, being considered mere subterfuges
to cover their base intention and conduct.
By order of Brig. Gen. H. VV. Benham :
[A. B. ELY,]
Aide-de-Camp and Acting Assistant Adjutant- General.
HEADQUARTERS U. S. FORCES,
COCKSPUR, DAUFUSKIE, AND TYBEE ISLANDS,
Fort Pulasld, May 20, 1862.
Brig. Gen. H. W. BENHAM,
Comdg. Northern District, Department of the, South :
' GENERAL : The dismantling of the Jones Island battery was com
pleted last night. Four of the guns are now here. The scow in which
the other two are is aground at the head of Cockspur Island, but will
be got down at high tide. The Maytiowef is now towing down the
hulk. When she has brought it to the dock I shall send her to Dan-
fuskie for the schooner there to take the guns. I have given directions
to have the engineer tools collected at Tybee and placed on board the
Ellen. In accordance with your instructions of the 17th instant the
balloon was inflated day before yesterday with the intention of send
ing it up yesterday. The Mayflower being otherwise occupied, I did
not send it up.
Having received your letter of yesterday, I sent word to Mr. Stark
weather that the balloon would not be sent up to-day. He, however,
misunderstanding my message, and thinking that I meant to say only
that the steamer would not take it up the river or creek, made an as
cension from here. This ascension has resulted in the discovery of two
new rebel camps, one on each side of the river, within supporting dis
tance of the pickets. Mr. O'Rorke has been up, and thinks that the
one on the south bank of the river is at or this side of Four Mile Point,
and is large enough to contain four or five companies. The other is
opposite to it or a little higher up, and possibly is on one of the islands.
I think it probable that the pickets themselves as well as their sup
ports have been strengthened. It would not have been possible for
me to organize a boat expedition for to-night on anything like the scale
winch you mentioned. I could not collect and prepare the boats in time.
Were this otherwise, I should not feel at liberty to proceed after the
discovery of this morning until I had reported it to you and received
further instructions, for the difficulty of the undertaking appears to me
to be very much increased by the additional force which has been placed
there. I shall proceed to get the boats ready in case you shall think it
best to go on. I might make a suggestion ; it would be that if a few
gunboats could be spared temporarily, either from Wassaw Sound or
Port Royal, to go up the river with the Mayflower and the balloon, keep
ing just out of the range of the batteries, and. if at the last moment, be
fore our operations at the northward commence, all the small steamers
which could be spared were to go up with empty schooners in tow of
these latter, having enough men on board of them to give them the
appearance of large transports with troops, sufficient alarm could be
344 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVI.
created to check for the time any re-enforcement of Charleston from
Savannah, and a strong impression would be created that Savannah is
t lie point of contemplated attack. Additional means of creating alarm
would be to arrange the hulk of one of our Very large lighters (some 70
frrt in length) with a pent roof of boards, blacken it with coal tar, make
port-boles, and put in "Quaker" guns — in short make a sham iron float
ing battery, and send it np with the steamer and gunboats. We can
easily construct such a sham battery in two days should such a plan
meet with your approbation.
I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
ALFEED H. TERRY,
Brigadier- General.
HDQRS. SOUTHERN DISTRICT, DEPT. OF THE SOUTH,
Key West, Fla., May 22, 18G2.
Lieut, E. W. SMITH,
A. A. A. G., Department of the South, Port Royal, S. C.:
SIR : On yesterday the transport steamer Mississippi arrived here
from New Orleans with dispatches from Maj. Gen. B. F. Butler, com
manding Department of the Gulf, requesting me to send him two regi
ments from my command for operations there; also that I might furnish
500,000 rations. As the Department of the South has been created
since the instructions of the general-iu-chief, in February last, I of
course informed General Butler that the regiments could not be sent to
him without the consent of Major-General Hunter. I have ordered
200,000 rations to be shipped, as I can spare them, and General Butler
fears he may run short before supplies can be sent him from the North.
The organization of the Department of Key West was, as the gen
eral commanding must be aware, for a specific purpose, against an un
expected attack from a great naval power ; and I know the Government
did not expect either Key West or Fort Jefferson to be weakened by the
removal permanently of any large number of troops. Supplies for 4,000
men for two years were ordered to both points before I was assigned to
the command, and I was instructed to keep at least one and a half years'
rations always on hand.
I will casually observe that in the applications of both Generals But
ler and Arnold (each for two regiments) they do not invite me to accom
pany the troops.
The mutineers belonging to the New York Volunteer Engineer Regi
ment arrived yesterday. I have placed them in Fort Taylor, and shall
put them to work, or undergo such punishment as they may deserve
provided they refuse.
I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
J. M. BRANNAN,
Brigadier- General, Commanding District.
HDQRS. NORTHERN DISTRICT, DEPT. OF THE SOUTH,
Hilton Head. S. C., May 23, 1862.
General M. C. MEIGS,
Quarter master- General U. S. Army :
SIR : A letter from yourself* has been shown me by my chief quarter-
* Of May 10, to Captain Fuller, p. 341.
CHAP. XXVI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. UNION. 345
master, giving tbe views of your department as to the disposition to be
made of tbe steamers that may have been employed in this district and
returned to New Yorl>, and in relation to these views I bave certain
statements to make to you whicb may lead you to form an opinion
wbetber they are just or most expedient for the public service. The
troops of tbis district, some twenty-two regiments, are, as you of course
know, situated upon islands entirely (except some GOO men at tbe iso
lated outpost of Saint Augustine), and tbey are distributed along a line
of these islands nearly 200 miles in length. Land transportation, as
horses, mules, and wagons, your department has not furnished us, and
they could have been but of limited use if you bad. Our only means
of movement therefore for attack or defense is by vessels, and they must
be steamers; and with, as has been fully believed, some 60,000 men in
front of us, between Savannah and Charleston, that can be concen
trated by railway in five or six hours at any point in front of our 13,000
eff< ctive men here, this would seem to make it necessary that we have
transportation always for one-half of that force at least.
Now, I might even pass over whatever claims the nearly 25,000 men
of the Army and Navy here may have to some provision for tbe send
ing of their mails to them, and the importance that Government orders
should duly reach them, and for which I find that one steamer only
besides the Atlantic could furnish us with weekly line (the vessels be
ing otherwise loaded with supplies that will be constantly needed).
These Government dispatches, it should be observed, are at times of the
utmost importance, when our enemy in front have telegraphic com
munication to all their main armies, learning their victories or defeats
days and even weeks before we do, by which the reasons for early
opportune movements are entirely with them. Yet even this small
boon of this weekly mail has been denied this department, mails having
at several different times reached here only at intervals of three to four
weeks, in one case having accumulated to the number, as the postmaster
states, of over 83,000 letters, and since my arrival to between 60,000 to
70,000 at once, the steamer Atlantic appearing to be allowed to run
here only because it is the only port she can enter (except to Fort Mon
roe) on this whole coast.
I might pass over all this, but when the safety of the army is com
promised and its efficiency destroyed by such decisions as are in your
letter, as I doubt not by your not understanding fully the case, it be
comes my duty to inform you of the facts, and to remonstrate against
such action. About the first of this month 1 submitted a plan of an
attack upon Charleston with such troops as could be spared from my
division alone (as it appeared that we had no hope of re-enforcements).
This was to take over one-half the disposable force to Edisto, as could
have been done in two days with the steamers then here or confidently
relied upon to come, and then to start with the balance all afloat at once,
and in one day, with a bound as it were, join the others and spring upon
the island adjacent to and this side of Charleston Harbor. It was per
haps the most daring project ibr so many troops that has been proposed
in the war, and General Hunter could not feel that we were strong
enough for it to be safe at that time.
Information since received has convinced him of its feasibility, and I
have now been endeavoring to execute it since the 16tli instant, but am
almost powerless now to execute it with the means at hand, for thesuc-
cessivc steamers sent to New York since then are all retained or do not
return. The McClellau, Ben De Ford, Boston, also the Cahawba, and at
times tbe Oriental, constituting more than two-thirds of our safe outeide
;; i<; COASTS or s. c., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP, xxvr
transportation. And the first part of my project, to have been executed
in two days, is not yet accomplished in six, and for the latter I cannot
now take 2,000 men with our two or three small steamers here, instead
of 5,000 or more, as I need for safety. The consequence is that this
movement, which was to have been a surprise, is undoubtedly now known
by the enemy and may be defeated, or can be accomplished only at the
probable cost of a large sacrifice of life, or it must be abandoned and
( Miarleston still held by the rebels, and all because our means of move
ments are to be decided upon and taken away from us by the quarter
master's department in New York, where our necessities cannot be known.
To one other point I would respectfully ask your attention, and that is
the furnishing of light felt hats for the troops here. From the first week
after my arrival I saw the indispensable necessity of this to save our
men fijom suffering, and the chief quartermaster forwarded a requisition
for 15,000 of such hats, which have again been asked for without our
receiving them, though now some six or seven weeks have passed, and
the greatest heats of the Southern sun now are impending, and the men
have no head covering but those little cloth caps.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
H. W. BENHAM,
Brigadier- General.
HEADQUARTERS U. S. FORCES,
JEdisto Island, S. <7., May 24, 1862.
Col. T. WELSH,
Comdg. Forty-fifth Regiment Pennsylvania Volunteers :
I am instructed by the general commanding to direct you to detail
one company from your command and embark them, with two days' ra
tions and with arms, on the steamer Honduras, to morrow morning, with
instructions to the officer commanding to proceed to Otter Island and
take on board the horses, ammunition, sljot, shell, implements, and all
other property remaining there. The gun carriages must be brought
off, and the guns also if possible. Should the officer in charge find him
self unable to put the guns on the steamer he will bury them in the
sand, first clearing all negroes from the vicinity, in order that his oper
ations may not be witnessed. He will locate the spot in which the guns
may be buried in such a manner that they may be readily found here
after from his description of the locality. The steamer will stop on her
way to Otter Island at the mouth of the Edisto Kiver to take in tow
certain scows, which will be brought down.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
0. W. FOSTEE,
Assistant Adjutant- General.
HDQRS. FIRST BRIG., NORTH. DIST., DEPT. OF THE SOUTH,
Fort Pulasld, May 25, 1802.
Capt. II. F. HAWKES,
Acting Assistant Adjutant- General, &c.:
I regret to report the failure of an attempted attack upon the enemy's
pickets last night. All my preparations were made yesterday; boats
i prepared and the men detailed. From the completeness of the
arrangements I had every reason to hope that a serious alarm would
CHAP. XXVI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. UNION. 3d?
be given. In the evening', however, the storm became so severe that
I should have countermanded the expedition had it not been that this
morning: was the last one on which the tide would serve. The party
started at 1.30 a. m., but owing to the darkness and the storm they
lost their way and made such slow progress that they had proceeded
no farther than the Jones Island Battery when the morning broke.
The officer in charge of course then abandoned the attempt. In two
or three days the evening tide will serve and I shall renew the attempt.
The two gunboats have been together at the Cooper River, and yes
terday, as I learn, shelled the woods beyond it, where there was a large
fire. Whether this tire was of buildings or woods I have not learned.
It has occurred to me that a good impression would be made if one of
the gunboats were to push up the river and commence openly sound
ing out the channel, placing conspicuous buoys to indicate it. I shall
endeavor to communicate with Captain Law and make the suggestion
to him.
Seven companies of the Forty-eighth New York Volunteers have
arrived hereto-day. In a letter which I received from you, dated the
23d instant, I was directed to order Colonel Perry to leave one company
of his regiment at Daufuskie and cover certain points named with
pickets. Colonel Perry has received directly from headquarters orders
to leave three companies at Daufuskie until the stores are removed
and then send them to Pulaski. Am I to understand that when the
stores are removed no troops whatever will be left upon the island I
In the orders for moving the Seventh Connecticut and Forty-sixth
New York Volunteers it is directed that they shall leave their heavy
baggage at their present camps until it can be sent for. Is the term
heavy baggage to include tents ? I suppose of course that it is to
include horses, wagons, quartermaster's stores, and all subsistence, ex
cept, say, two days7 cooked and three days' uncooked rations.
I desire to call the attention of the general commanding to the dis
position to be made of the sick. The Forty-eighth New7 York have
a considerable sick list and but one surgeon, so that with his own peo
ple and the sick prisoners on his hands he would be unable to give
any attention to the sick of the Seventh Connecticut should they be
left behind here. The Seventh has two surgeons, but as they are to
go into active service they certainly would need both. The Forty-sixth
New York will be in the same situation or worse, for there will be no
surgeons left on Tybee after they leave.
Should not the seriously sick men of both. these regiments be sent
to the general hospital? There are a considerable number of men who
are not sick enough to send to the hospital, and yet would be only a
clog if their regiment take the field. I ask to be directed in regard to
them.
I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
ALFRED H. TERRY,
Brigadier- General.
HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE SOUTH,
Hilton Head, Port Royal, 8. C., May 31, 1862.
Hon. E. M. STANTON,
Secretary of War :
SIR : The Navy have entered Winyaw Bay and have command of
Georgetown. Ori the Santee, Great Pee Dee, Waccamaw, and Black
348 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVI.
Rivers, near Georgetown, there is said to be 4,000,000 or 5,000,000
bushels of rice. It is important that we should have this rice, and still
more important that the enemy should be deprived of it.
The Navy have also possession of Saint Simon's Island, Ga., where
they have a flourishing negro colony, and Captain Godon, of the Navy,
who has command there, can at any time occupy Brunswick.
I think it a great mistake to suppose that military operations can
not be carried on here in the summer. Occupying three islands along
the coast we necessarily move by water, and our men are all the bet
ter for a little occupation and a change of scene. With the necessary
steamers, now almost entirely taken from us, and a few thousand
additional troops, we could soon have, Charleston, Georgetown, Bull's
Bay, Brunswick, Savannah, Saint Mary's, and Jacksonville. Occu
pying thus the whole coast, the slaves would flock into our posts,
and the enemy be thus injured as much as in any other way. Accord
ing to my experience they would rather lose one of their children than
a, good negro.
I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
D. HUNTEK,
Major- General, Commanding.
HEADQUARTERS IT. S. FORCES,
Edisto Island, S. 0., June 3, 1862.
Capt. A. C. RHIND,
U. S. S. Crusader, Senior Naval Officer, Edisto Island, S. C.:
CAPTAIN : After the departure of the larger portion of the troops
there will remain at this place as its garrison the Fifty-fifth Regiment
Pennsylvania Volunteers, one squadron Massachusetts cavalry, and
two pieces of field artillery, with a detachment of the Third Rhode
Island Kegiment to serve them.
I have advised Colonel White, the commanding officer, not to at
tempt with his force the occupation of the whole island, but to hold
the depot of supplies near the wharf only. This he can do easily, with
the efficient aid you will afford him with your vessels against any force
likely to be brought against him.
In this connection I beg leave to express the obligations the Army
force is under for the valuable assistance received from you and the
vessels under your command in crossing the troops and making the
preparations for landing.
Captain Gillis, of the Hale gunboat, rendered most valuable assist
ance in the construction of the lauding on Seabrook Island ; indeed
without his aid it would have been impracticable to have built it with
the limited means at my command.
Since the crossing commenced, The Planter, attached to your com
mand, has done a large part of the work of carrying over the troops.
Acting Master Me Donga), in command of her until about noon to-day,
has exerted himself to the utmost in forwarding the transfer of the
force to the other bank of (he Edisto.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
H. G. WEIGHT,
Brigadier- General, Commanding.
CHAP. XXVI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. UNION. 349
HEADQUARTERS U. S. FORCES,
Legareville, 8. C., June 1, 18G2.
Lieutenant SEALY,
Actg. Asst. Adjt. Gen., Hdqrs., &e., steamer Delaware :
SIR: The acting brigade commissary of my staff has been engaged
during the entire day in getting subsistence on shore, and reports to
me that after working until after dark he has found it impossible to
land sufficient to provision the command. He says he has had all the
assistance needed in the way of a working force, and he has had, further,
the authority to take and use any or all the public boats this side of the
Stono River, so that neither the want of boats nor men has retarded his
operations.
The trouble he reports to be the difficulty and almost impossibility of
getting the boats on shore on account of the strong current in the Stono
Eiver, the bad character of the landing on the river, and the long time
needed for getting to the wharf in the Aberpoolie.
All this, he suggests, may be avoided by having a steamer to tow the
loaded barges from the transport to the last- mentioned landing, and,
approving the suggestion, I have the honor to recommend that a steamer
be designated for this service. It ought not to require to exceed half an
hour after receiving notice that the lighters are ready.
Unless this facility be afforded I fear I shall find myself unable to
execute the general's order to have two days' rations always on hand.
At the last report one lighter was stuck in the mud near the landing,
which will be unloaded and ready to return to the transport by day
light. Orders have also been given to have both the large lighters
loaded up as soon as possible to-morrow and to wait alongside the trans
port for a tow.
Please submit this at once to General Benham for his action.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
H. G. WBIGHT,
Brigadier- General, Commanding.
HDQRS. NORTHERN DIST., DEPT. OF THE SOUTH,
On board U. S. transport Delaware,
Stono Eiver, S. C., June 8, 1862.
Capt. PERCIVAL DRAYTON,
U. S. Navy, Senior Naval Officer :
CAPTAIN : I have the pleasure of inclosing you an extract of the orders
I have issued for the arrangement of our forces here for the movement
which I expect to take place either to-night or to-morrow, Monday night,
by which you will see what we are to attempt.
It is the wish of General Hunter, as you were kind enough to offer
your assistance, that you would have one or two small gunboats on our.
right that may bear upon or toward Secession vilte, and one small boat
up the Aberpoolie Creek, just opposite the upper part of Legareville, to
protect that place from destruction, as we have been obliged to reduce
our force to the minimum there, and that the remainder of your vessels,
as many as you should see fit to spare for the purpose, should be in the
upper part of the reach above Griraball's or rather above Newton's Cut,
to make as much of a demonstration or an appearance of an attack against
Fort Pemberton as possible, while they may also be able by their fire to
prevent our left flank or rear from being attacked by the bridge over
Newton's Cut,
350 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVL
"A filial letter will be sent you as to the actual hour of the advance
movement, whether to-night or to-morrow night, and we would hope
to have your vessels in position as early as possible by the following
morning.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
H. W. BENHAM,
Brigadier- General, Commanding.
WASHINGTON, June 9, 1862.
Major-General HUNTER,
Commanding Department of the South,
(Care of Assistant Secretary of War John Tucker, Fort Monroe) :
Your dispatch of 31st May is received. You are authorized, at your
discretion, to operate with the Navy in the operations against Charles
ton, so far as the forces now under your command will permit. The
Department has no troops which can be sent South before the reduction
of Rich mond. The steamer Yauderbilt, now in the Chesapeake, is under
orders to tow a fleet of sailing transports to Hilton Head and to report
to you for orders.
EDWIN M. STANTON,
Secretary of War.
HDQRS. NORTHERN DIST., DUPT. OF THE SOUTH,
On board U. 8. transport Delmcare,
Stono River, 8. C., June 10, 1862.
Capt. PERCIVAL DRAYTON,
U. S. Navy, Senior Naval Officer :
CAPTAIN : I have the pleasure of forwarding to you a copy of the
orders I have issued for the operations of our troops to-morrow morning
intended to break up the batteries that have been shelling your boats
and General Wright's camp to-day.
I would respectfully suggest that for the aid you so kindly offered
from your gunboats that, say, two should aid General Stevens on our
right and be in communication with him, and that two others should be,
say, where the Huron was to-day, just above his camp, to cross-fire in his
front and to shell the woods beyond, where they feel assured that they
know where our forces are. Another boat could be well occupied in
commanding the road just this side of Newton's Cut, to prevent or an
noy re-enforcements of the enemy.
This road 1 learn can be covered in part from your gunboats.
Yery respectfully, your obedient servant,
H. W. BENHAM,
Brigadier- General, Commanding.
[Inclosure.]
HEADQUARTERS NORTHERN DISTRICT,
On board U. S. transport Delaware,
Stono Eiver, S. C., June 10, 1862.
General WRIGHT:
GENERAL : It being important that the batteries of the enemy which
have borne upon our camps at Thomas GrirnbalFs to-day should bo
CHAP. XXVI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. UNION. 35 L
closely rcconnoiterecl or broken up if possible at the earliest moment,
for this purpose a column will be sent out from General Stevens' com
mand, to consist of two good regiments, supported by two pieces of
artillery, which ar,e before daylight to-morrow morning to take post as
near as possible without alarming the pickets of the enemy toward or
at the angle of the causeway running northeast and the wall running
north at the house of S. Legare, north of the marsh, about one-half mile
north of General Stevens' advanced camps. It is believed this battery
is from one-fourth to one-third mile north on this angle, and a rush will
be made upon and toward it (the men avoiding the actual line of the road
whenever practicable) at between 3 o'clock and the earliest daylight.
A selected regiment of General Wright's command will be stationed
at the same hour as quietly as possible in the thin woods about 1 mile
a little north of east of Thomas Grimball's to support this movement
and to distract the attention of the enemy.
It will be important that the regiment from General Wright's com
mand shall not move until the firing shall have become well sustained
between General Stevens' column and the enemy, or until they shall
have been signaled, as is suggested, by rockets ; for the last column, if in
the dark, it is suggested that rockets of one color, say red, should be
with General Stevens' to burn, and another, say blue, with General
Wright's regiment, and whenever a doubt arises as to position a rocket
should be sent up by the party in doubt, to be answered by the other;
a selected non-commissioned officer to be near the commanding officer of
each detachment for this purpose.
The main command, or both united if necessary, will go forward well
up on the road from S. Legare's, say for 1 or 2 miles, to examine that
road and the woods and fields on this side of it if possible up to the
woods around the church, returning as soon as this duty shall have
been accomplished, unless indeed they shall hear firing in advance and
to their left, when the commanding officer may in his discretion, if he-
can do so with effect, advance toward the woods in which the church is
situated, to cut off any parties that may be driven out of these woods
by a force under Colonel Williams, which is expected to be there at
about the same time. This latter force will be organized by General
Wright under Colonel Williams, to consist of two good regiments and
two pieces of artillery, and to start soon after 3 o'clock p. m. ; and the
object of this is to reconnoiter to the left and front of General Wright's
camp and toward the church, the object being to scour the passages
through or around these woods to the rear of the church if it can be
done without too great exposure or loss to our force — and it is left to
the discretion of Colonel Williams to leave these woods if he can pass
on his right or left or go through them, and if successful in getting to
the rear he may perhaps unite with and, if he does, will take command
of the other detach men ts, and make a further reconnaissance and de-
truction of the works of the enemy to the front or to bring them off
safely.
Colonel Williams should be provided with rockets of a color similar
to that in General Stevens' column or preferably of a third color; these,
it is suggested, may be obtained from the courtesy of the naval officers
by Generals Wright and Stevens sending for them.
The ambulances should be taken with each column, and the men
should have full canteens and a full cooked ration each.
It is of the utmost importance, it will be recollected by all command
ing officers, that the best arrangements possible should be made to pre
vent confusion in our different columns and to secure them, from collis-
352 COASTS OF S C , GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CIIAP. XX"VI.
ion with each other, and to this the greatest care and attention will be
given.
As additional security, the colors will be taken by each detachment
as further recognition by each other and by the Navy, but will be ex
hibited before the enemy as little as possible.
We have ascertained that distinctive colored rockets cannot be ob
tained, and only two rockets can be lurnished each regiment.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
H. W. BENHAM,
Brigadier- General, Commanding.
(Same to General Stevens, U. S. A.)
HEADQUARTERS U. S. FORCES,
June 10, 1862.
Brig. Gen. H. W. BENHAM:
GENERAL : Your letter of this date, directing a reconnaissance to-mor
row morning by forces from the commands of General Stevens and my
self, has been received, and in reply I have the honor to state that the
reconnaissance then ordered, so far as this command is concerned, can
only be carried out by troops which are now quite exhausted, having
been actually engaged with the enemy or under his fire for several hours
tbis afternoon.
The enemy made an attack upon our line this afternoon at about
3.30 o'clock in considerable force at the junction of the road leading
from Grimball's across the island.
During the morning he had shelled our position from his batteries in
front, preparatory to this attack. He was easily repulsed, but owing
to thick woods which enveloped our position in front it was difficult to
decide where the real attack would be made, hence, in order to guard
all points, it was necessary to bring almost all the troops forward in de
fense of the position. They are consequently very much fatigued and
ought to have all the rest they can get while holding themselves in
readiness to resist any further attack to-night.
Should it be deemed necessary to make the reconnaissance ordered
to-morrow morning I can of course organize the two forces required
from my command, but with the exception of one regiment and two com
panies they cannot be fresh troops.
I have not yet received the report of casualties, but hope they will
not exceed 5 killed and 15 or 20 wounded. That of the enemy, though
not ascertained, is known to be much greater.
By order of Brig. Gen. H. G. Wright :
C. W. FOSTER,
Assistant Adjutant- General.
HEADQUARTERS U. S. FORCES,
GrimbaWs Plantation j June 12, 1802.
Capt. PERCIVAL DRAYTON,
U. S. 8. Pawnee, Senior Naval Officer, Stono River, S. C. :
CAPTAIN : When you stated yesterday that you had instructions from
> nag-officer to send two of the gunboats from this station 1 requested
at, it anv discretion was left with you in the inatter? the whole nayal
CHAP. XXVI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. UNION. 353
force should be retained here until our position on this island should
be more assured, and I now have the honor to say that I still think it
would be unwise to diminish our present force, either naval or military,
by a single man or gun, until re-enforcements arrive.
If, therefore, the discretion referred to above be left with you, I would
ask that your force be not diminished until the flag-officer can be heard
from again.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant.
H. G. WEIGHT,
Brigadier -General, Commanding.
HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE SOUTH,
Hilton Head, S. 0., June 17, 1862,
Hon. E. M. STANTON,
Secretary of War, Washington, 1). C. :
SIR: It is with great regret that I find myself compelled to trouble
you with complaints, but my duty to the brave men placed under my
command compels me to bring to your notice the total neglect with
which we have been treated by the authorities of the Quartermaster's
Department, who appear to have ignored us entirely.
Not content with taking away the marine transportation, so neces
sary here, situated as we are on many scattered islands, thus almost
completely crippling us, they pay no attention to our most pressing
and important requisitions. More than two months since we made an
earnest application for straw or light felt hats, convinced that we could
thus save the lives of many of our men, exposed as they are to an almost
tropical sun ; application was also made for tents, so indispensable at
this season of the year to the health and comfort of our men ; but both
these applications have been entirely neglected, and the consequence
is that our hospitals are tilling up rapidly, and we shall probably lose
double the number of men there was any necessity for losing. So desti
tute are we of tents, and so impossible has it proved to procure atten
tion from the Quartermaster's Department, that we have been unable
to get tents for myself and staff.
Regretting much to find myself under the necessity of making this
statement, I know that the paramount importance of preserving the
health of my command in this climate will induce you to give the requi
site orders to the Quartermaster's Department to have our requisitions
filled without delay.
I have the honor to be, sir, very respectfully, your most obedient
servant,
D. HUNTER,
Major- General, Commanding.
HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE SOUTH,
Hilton Head, June —, 18G2.
(Received War Department June 17, 1862.)
Hon. E. M. STANTON,
Secretary of War :
SIR: I have the honor to report that on the 2d day of this month I
left here for the Stono River with an expedition against Charleston, I
23 B R— VOL xiv
354 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVI.
intimated to you in a previous letter my fears that this expedition
would fail in consequence of my being stripped of transportation by
the Quartermaster's Department, and I have not the least doubt if we
had the steamers belonging here and those for which I have applied
that we should to-day be in possession of Charleston. Without this
transportation our different points are not in supporting distance of
racli other and we are entirely at the mercy of the enemy, being liable
any day to be cut off in detail. I deem it a duty I owe to myself frankly
to state our situation, as I have before frequently done, that reverses
may not be attributable to me. We now hold the southwestern portion
of James Island, within 5 or 6 miles of Charleston, ready to advance
upon that city as soon as re-enforcements arrive. I most earnestly beg
for re-enforcements, and I still more earnestly beg for the transporta
tion necessary to enable the different parts of my command to support
each other. Being in small commands and on islands, without this
transportation we are entirely at the mercy of the enemy.
I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
D. HUNTER,
Major- General, Commanding.
JUNE 17, 1862.
Eeferred to the Quartermaster-General.
By order of the Secretary of War :
C. P. WOLCOTT,
Assistant Secretary of War.
WAR DEPARTMENT,
Washington City, D. C., June 19, 1862.
Maj. Gen. D. HUNTER,
Commanding Department of the South:
SIR: Your letters of 31st May and June — have been received.
Your instructions at the time of your departure did not require any
movements against Charleston, but committed a large discretion to you,
to be exercised on your own responsibility.
Your letters of the .'3d and 22d of April and 14th of May informed the
Department that you designed to hold simply a defensive position unless
re-enforced, and for that your force seemed to be considered adequate.
On' the 30th April you were informed that no re enforcements could be
sent.
The letter of the 31st of May was the first intimation to the Depart
ment that you had changed your plans and contemplated offensive
operations against^ Charleston and Fort Sumter. The reasons for this
change in your plans and what force you deemed requisite for success
not having been communicated, the Department is unable to judge of
their propriety.
The letters of the Quartermaster-General and Adjutant-General (of
which copies are herewith inclosed) in relation to the complaints against
em will, I hope, satisfy you that there has been no disposition in any
branch of this Department to withhold support and assistance from you.
Your letters afford no indications as to the amount of transportation
•equire, nor whether the movement against Charleston and Fort
bumtei lesiguea to be made with a detachment or with your wUolo
CHAP. XXVI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. UNION. 355
It could not have been expected that a general of your experience
would undertake at his own discretion, without orders and without no
tice to the Department, a hazardous expedition, with " fears of failure7'
for want of adequate transportation, and it is therefore hoped that the
statement in your letter in the last respect may be unfounded.
If, however, the force of the enemy at Charleston be so large as you
estimate your expedition, even if it should fail as to its main purpose —
the capture of Charleston — may accomplish an important object by
occupying with a small force a much greater body of the enemy that
but for your operations would be employed against us at Richmond.
In the absence of any information from you as to the kind or amount
of transportation you require I directed all that can be speedily pro
cured to be sent you, and hope you will order back what you may not need.
General Saxton takes out this dispatch and you will doubtless be glad
to meet him.
Serious complaints have been made against General Benham touch
ing his courage and good conduct, copies of which will be immediately
sent to you.
I shall be glad to have frequent reports from you, and wishing every
success to your command, I am, very respectfully, your obedient serant,
EDWIN M. STANTON,
Secretary of War.
HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE SOUTH,
Hilton Head, S. C., June 19, 1862.
Brig. Gen. HORATIO G. WRIGHT,
U. S. Army, James Island, S. C. :
SIR : You are assigned to the command of all the troops on James
Island and at Legareville. You will not attempt to advance toward
Charleston or Fort Johnson till largely re-enforced and until you receive
express orders from these headquarters.
You will select a neck of land a short distance in advance of the old
battery, where you can have a flanking fire from the gunboats in the
Stem/and on the creek and fortify it strongly. You will repair the
causeway to Cole's Island, and shelter your stores and men as far as
practicable by houses taken from any of the plantations on the Stono.
You will ma"ke seasonable requisitions on the quartermaster, commis
sary, medical director, and ordnance officer at Hilton Head for all nec
essary supplies, and report to these headquarters the state of your com
mand by every opportunity.
Should you deem your present position untenable you will immedi
ately make all the necessary dispositions for abandoning James Island
and John's Island, sending off in the first place all your sick and all
your stores.
Your front being completely covered by the gunboats of the -Navy,
you can make the retrograde movement, should you deem it necessary,
without losing a man or a pound of supplies. As soon as the stores are
removed all the troops not sailing in the first detachment of transports
should be at once removed to the west bank of the Stono, at Legare
ville. Should you determine to abandon the Stono you will have one
regiment at North Edisto, and you will immediately inform me of your
tlecision, that I may send you all the transportation m my power.
Very respectfully, your most obedient servant,
D. HLJ JN -Lx^Xv,
Major- General, Commanding,
356 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVL
HEADQUARTERS U. S. FORCES,
GrimbalVs Plantation, 8. C., June 19, 1862.
General H. W. BENHAM,
Comdg. Northern District, Department of the South :
GENERAL : In answer to your letter of this date, asking an outline
of my plan for the defense of this camp, 1 have to say that after learn
ing more definitely than I now do the plans of General Stevens I should
be able to devise mine more understandingly, and had proposed to visit
his camp and lines this morning for the purpose.
Assuming, however, that General Stevens' batteries will be at least
three in number — one situated on the extremity of the tongue of land
farthest from his camp, the second being the three-gun battery already
erected, and the third somewhere iu the vicinity of the one gun which
was opened upon the enemy during the cannonading of his works — I
should propose for my own position a strong inclosed work projected
well forward toward and to the right of the open pine woods in front
of this camp, this work to mount as many guns of the heaviest caliber
as can be procured. Such a work would possess the following advan
tages : It would act along General Stevens' front, would cover well our
line of camps by a flank and reverse fire in case of near attack, and iu
the event of an attack on the part of the enemy to shell our camp from
the battery near the Tower or from others which may be erected back
of the woods to the left, could reply etfectively and draw the fire which
would otherwise be directed at our camps. It also possesses another
and important property which no work nearer the camp can claim, that
of looking toward future operations in the re'duction of the enemy's
lines and batteries.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
H. G. WEIGHT,
Brigadier- General, Commanding.
HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE SOUTH,
Hilton Head, S. C., June 20, 1862.
Lieut. Col. Louis BELL,
Commanding Post, Saint Augustine, Fla. :
SIR : In reply to your letter dated June 1, relative to the case of
\Villiam Keyes and three other men who had taken the oath of alle
giance, and who nevertheless were guilty of harboring a sergeant of the
Confederate Army and supplying him with information, I am instructed
by the major-general commanding to advise you that the prisoners in
question are to be heavily ironed and sent to these headquarters, with
statement iu writing, and as full as possible, of their offense. Your
action in the case of Mr. Steubeumeyer, the 'Episcopal clergyman, is
approved.
In reference to your letter dated May 29, relative to the hanging and
icution ot loyal citizens by roving bauds of Confederate guerrillas,
B major-general commanding desires that you shall take the most
rigoi ind prompt measures for the suppression of such practices.
All guerrillas caught you will iron heavily and send to these headquar
ters, with written charges accompanying them.
7 LalS° fl??!X.to arm> aml if Iiecessary arm. all negroes
who may be willing to enter the service/
CHAF. XXVI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. UNION. 357
You should also at once drive out of your lines all persons, without
reference to sex, who have not taken and shall refuse to take the oath
of allegiance.
The general commanding, reposing much confidence in your judg
ment, gives you a large and liberal discretion in reference to all acts
that may be necessary for the vindication of the laws within your dis
trict, and guarantees you a frank support in any acts within the limits
of a reasonable discretion.
It is not his wish, however, that the death penalty should be inflicted
on prisoners captured without express orders from these headquarters.
The better way will be to iron all malefactors and send them here for
disposition under the necessary guard.
You will report frequently and fully all action taken by you under
the terms of these instructions.
I have the honor to be, sir, very respectfully, your most obedient
servant,
CHAS. G. HALPINE;
Major and Assistant Adjutant- General.
HDQRS. U. S. FORCES, DEPARTMENT OF THE SOUTH,
James Island, S. <?., June 20, 1862.
Maj. Gen. D. HUNTER,
Comdg. Department of the South, Hilton Head, S. C.:
GENERAL : I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your com
munication of the 19th instant, assigning me to this command, directing
that no advance should be made without express order ; to select a neck
of land a short distance in advance of the old battery, where I can
have a flanking fire from the gunboats on the Stono and on the creek;
and to fortify it strongly; and in case I deem the present position un
tenable, to make all the necessary disposition for abandoning James
and John's Islands.
I have no reason to think that the occupation of James Island, with
our present force even, is now untenable. Every indication is to the
contrary. We can hold on for a long time, if it be necessary, against
any force that the enemy is believed to have in our vicinity, and we
can only be reached by batteries which the enemy must yet establish,
his present ones not being within effective range. I am speaking now
of the position occupied by the present camps; but I infer from your
letter of instruction, though it is not explicitly stated, that you desire
the camps at Grimball's to be moved down toward the old battery and
joined to those of General Stevens' division.
Every preparation for this removal will be made, such as selecting
the new line of defense, positions for camps, and removing the stores to
the old battery, so that no delay shall occur in the execution of the
order, if I have rightly interpreted it, I am by no means certain that
the transfer of this force is either judicious at this time or intended by
you, and as I can send the Delaware to-night so as to be back to-mor
row night, before any actual move of the force could be made, I have
decided to do so, and ask your further instructions.
Such a movement would, I have no doubt, be deemed by the enemy
an indication of weakness on our part, which would embolden him to
advance, while he will scarcely attack us in our present positions for
some time.
358 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVI.
While I believe that we can hold what we have till re-enforcements
arrive, I would respectfully suggest that unless strong re-enforcements
of troops, having artillery and munitions of war, are expected, it be
comes a serious question for your consideration whether we should at
tempt to hold our present position. It is employing a large force of
excellent troops which might be of service elsewhere, and is inducing
the enemy to strengthen and to add to the already formidable defenses
on the line of advance to Charleston over James Island.
I would ask that you come here and. look at the condition of matters
yourself. A few hours' time spent here in a personal interview and in
an examination of the position would be of great advantage to the
interest of the service.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
H. G. WEIGHT,
Brigadier- General, Commanding.
HDQRS. IT. S. FORCES NORTH. DIST., DEPT. SOUTH,
James Island, S. C., June 20, 1862.
General ISAAC I. STEVENS,
Commanding Second Division, James Island, S. C. :
GENERAL : I have received yours of this date, stating that no ar
rangement has been made with the Confederate officers regarding ces
sation of operations on account of flags of truce, and that you had sent
Captain Lusk for instructions as to further proceedings.
I have seen Captain Lusk, and from what I learn from him and from
the letter of General W. D. Smith, which Captain Lusk delivered to
me, I do not see that any further action is necessary, unless it may be
in regard to exchange of prisoners. I do not know what instructions
you may have had from General Benham on this point, but you are no
doubt aware that exchanges are prohibited by War Department order
except under instructions from the Secretary of War.
Please send me copies of any instructions in this matter you may
have received from General Beuham, or if they were verbal then of
your letters on the subject.
I send you copy of a 'letter from General Hunter to General Benham,
directing the latter to turn over the command to me and return to
Hilton Head.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
H. G. WEIGHT,
Brigadier- General, Commanding.
HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE SOUTH,
Hilton Head, 8. C.,June 21, 1862.
Brig. Gen. HORATIO G. WRIGHT,
Commanding U. S. Forces, Stono River, S. C. :
GENERAL : I have received your letter of yesterday. It was not my
intention that you should leave your camps at GrirnbalPs unless you
should deem it expedient so to do. I wish you to exercise your own
judgment in the case. Stay where you are, or send a portion of your
command at Grimball's to Cole's Island and the other part to the neck
occupied by General Stevens. This last arrangement may have the
CHAP. XXV1.1 CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. — UNION. 359
advantage of having your front more completely covered by gunboats-
but it may be attended with disadvantage, which I do not at present
see. I have no doubt you will be able to hold your position whichever
line, in your own good judgment, you may determine on.
I have the honor to be, general, very respectfully, your most obedient
servant,
D. HUNTEK,
Major -General, Commanding.
GENERAL ORDERS, ) HDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF THE SOUTH,
No. 15. f Hilton Head, Port Royal, 8. C., June 21, 1862.
I. So much of General Orders, No. 1, current series, from these head
quarters, as relates to the division of the department into districts is
hereby countermanded. All returns will hereafter be made direct to
these headquarters.
II. Maj. Charles G. Halpine, assistant adjutant- general, having been
reassigned to duty in this department, is hereby announced as assistant
adjutant-general of the department and chief of staff to the major-gen
eral commanding.
D. HUNTER,
Major- General, Commanding.
HEADQUARTERS U. S. FORCES,
James Island, S. C., June 22, 1862.
Maj. Gen. D. HUNTER,
Comdg. Department of the South, Hilton Head, 8. C. :
GENERAL : I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your let
ter of the 21st instant, and in pursuance of the discretion which it
leaves with me I shall maintain, for the present at least, the camp at
GrimbalPs. This decision, founded on the information now here, is
most expedient.
I shall go on with the fortifications of both camps, or rather with a
line covering both, which when completed will, I believe, render them
secure from any attack the enemy is likely to make. This line involves
but little more labor than would be required for the single camp, while
the space covered is largely increased.
While I state my confident belief that we can maintain our position
on James Island for a considerable time — perhaps an indefinite one —
I am still bound to say in all frankness that I do not understand the
object of the occupation at all, unless the command be sufficiently re-
enforced to enable us to prosecute the attack upon Charleston. You
will remember that in regard to the campaign I was never consulted,
and that I do not know upon what assurances of additional troops the
plan was based. I am here as the commander of the forces now on the
island, and in regard to these I have full information. Beyond this my
knowledge does not go.
Whether, then, it is expedient to hold on to the last — to fight the
possession of our present position foot by foot in the expectation of
adequate force for the prosecution of the undertaking and finally to
evacuate if forced to do so by overwhelming numbers — or whether to
withdraw sooner, and to use the excellent troops we have elsewhere
because no reasonable prospect of such aid is to be anticipated, are
questions which I am not in position to decide.
360 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAI-. XXVI.
I have all along assumed, and have been led to believe, that such re-
enforcements have been promised and were expected, and till notified
to the contrary it will be my duty to hold on to the occupation of the
island. Such "re-enforcements should be sufficient to swell our present
numbers to 40,000 men, with the proper complement of heavy and light
artillery and munition, in order to make the enterprise sure, in view of
the enemy's probable force and the works of defense now existing and
being daily added to and strengthened.
I would again respectfully suggest that a visit from you to this point
would be of the highest importance to the interests of the service. It
would go further toward putting you in possession of a correct knowl
edge of the condition of affairs and enable you to act moreunderstand-
ingly than all the letters that could be written.
1 have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
H. G. WEIGHT,
Brigadier- General, Commanding.
HEADQUARTERS U. S. FORCES,
James Island, S. C., June 23, 1862.
Maj. Gen. D. HUNTER:
GENERAL: A deserter from the Forty-seventh Georgia Eegiment,
who was brought in by our pickets last night, says there are twelve
regiments on the island, numbering some 8,000 men. He describes very
indefinitely, however, a line of intrenchments across the island in our
front extending north to Wappoo Creek. This we knew before. This
line he represents as having at intervals batteries containing one heavy
gun each, which is confirmed by other statements. These heavy guns
are probably 32-pounders. It is clear, I think, from the information ob
tained from a variety of independent sources, that the enemy has a line
extending from Secessionville to Wappoo, and perhaps beyond. As
regards its strength, I believe from present information that it should
be approached cautiously and pierced at one point, when the rest could
be turned. At this moment I should not hesitate to attempt it with
20,000 men and a siege train of 24-pounders. What it will be a week or a
month hence I cannot of course say.
A contraband who came in this morning makes a statement which
confirms me in the belief that the enemy's lines were in the most par
ticulars prepared long before our lauding, and that what has been done
since has reference to particular points rather than to the general sys
tem. If this be so, it shows that any dash upon Charleston was out of
the question with our present force of men and means.
My greatest solicitude is in regard to the health of the command. It
seems to be a universally received opinion that white men cannot stay
upon these islands after June, Whether this be true I of course cannot
say. So far as I have remarked the health of the command is good.
I don't believe the enemy designs attacking us in our present posi
tion at present, nor will they do so till they find out we are not strong
enough to advance, possibly not then.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
H. G. WEIGHT,
Brigadier- General, Commanding.
CHAP. XXVI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.— UNION. 361
HEADQUARTERS U. S. FORCES,
James Island, 8. C., June 29, 1862.
Maj. CHARLES G. H ALPINE,
Asst. Adjt. Gen., Hdqrs. Dept., Hilton Head, S. C. :
MAJOR . I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of the letter of
the major-general commanding, dated the 27th instant, instructing me
to abandon James Island with the force under my command, and in
obedience thereto have already sent off such of the sick as could not
march with their regiments, and have been to-day shipping stores and
the horses of the cavalry, which will be the first oi' the command to
leave. I hope to be able to accomplish the whole movement success
fully, removing everything without loss.
The movement to Legare.ville with the balance of the command left
after the first detachment is sent away will occasion much labor, and 1
fear loss of time, as the difficulties of approach to that place by steamer
are serious.
It might be well to leave it to my judgment whether to make the
transfer or not. On this point I would ask early instructions.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
H. G. WEIGHT,
Brigadier- General, Commanding.
HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE SOUTH,
Hilton Head, 8. C., June 30, 1862.
Flag-Officer S. F. DuPoNT,
Comdg. Atlantic Blockading Squadron, Port Royal Harbor :
COMMODORE : Brig. Gen. J. M. Brannan signals to me from Beaufort
that he has received information from sources which be regards as re
liable to the effect that the enemy in strong force are about to make
an attack on Port Eoyal Island from the direction of Grahamville.
General Brannan reports that for the last three nights boats have
approached our pickets at the ferry, and adds that the enemy are said
to have crossed.
General Brannan is anxious that a gunboat be sent up Broad River
and Whale Branch to operate around the island, and in this request, if
it be possible, I concur.
• General Brannan has a force of thirty companies on Port Eoyal
Island, which, in my judgment, should be ample for its defense.
With the highest esteem I have the honor to be, commodore, your
most obedient servant,
D. HUNTER,
Major- General, Commanding.
GENERAL ORDERS, ) HDQRS. DEPT. OF THE SOUTH,
No. 19. } Hilton Head, Port Royal, S. C., June 30. 1862.
Surg. Charles H. Crane, U. S. Army, being the senior medical officer
of the department, is hereby appointed and announced as medical
director of the Department of the South, and will report for duty at
these headquarters.
By command of Mai. Gen. D. Hunter :
CHAS. G. HALPINE,
Assistant Adjutant- General and Chief of Staff.
362
COASTS OF 8. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA [CHAI-. XXVI.
Abstract from Return of the Department of the South, Maj. Gen. David Hunter command
ing, for the month of June, 1802; headquarters Hilton Head, 8. C.
Command.
Present for
duty.
Aggregate present.
Aggregate present
and absent.
Aggregate present
and absent on last
monthly return.
Eemarks.
Officers.
d
31
138
239
124
99
34
21
28
20
22
34
3,590
6,172
2,669
2,192
577
674
730
663
657
65
4,182
7,436
3,268
2,699
699
728
852
848
853
71
4,564
9,537
3,638
2,802
707
756
884
899
940
Six field pieces artil
lery.
James Island :
First Division, Brig. Gen. H. G.
Wright.
Second Division, Brig. Gen. I. I.
Stevens.
Beaufort, S. C.,Brig. Gen. J. M. Bran-
nan.
Fort Pickens and Pensacola, Fla.,
Brig. Gen. L. G. Arnold.
Key West Fla
3,454
9,823
3,656
2,758
718
759
890
883
933
Fort Edisto, S. C
FortPulaski Ga
Fernandina and Fort Clinch, Fla
Saint Augustine Fla
Grand total
756
17, 958
21, 630
24, 798
23, 880
Organization of troops in the Department of the South, Maj. Gen. David
Hunter commanding, June 30, 1862.
FIRST DIVISION. *
Brig. Gen. HORATIO G. WRIGHT.
First Brigade.
Col. J. L. CHATFIELD.
6th Connecticut, Col. J. L. Chatfield.
47th New York, Maj. P. C. Kane.
97th Pennsylvania, Col. H. R. Guss.
Second Brigade.
Col. THOMAS WELSH.
45th Pennsylvania, Col. Thomas Welsh.
76th Pennsylvania, Col. J. M. Power.
3d U. S. Artillery, Battery E, Capt. John
Hamilton.
SECOND DIVISION.
Brig. Gen. ISAAC I. STEVENS.
First Brigade.
Col. WILLIAM M. FENTON.
7th Connecticut, Col. Joseph R. Hawley.
28th Massachusetts, Lieut. Col. M. Moore.
8th Michigan, Col. William M. Fenton.
Second Brigade.
Col. A. FARNSWORTH.
46th New York, Col. Rudolph Rosa.
79th New York, Col. A. Farnsworth.
100th Pennsylvania, Col. D. Leasure.
Third Brigade.
Col. ROBERT WILLIAMS.
3d New Hampshire, Lieut. Col. J. H. Jackson.
1st New York Engineers, Col. E. W. Serrell.
1st Connecticut Battery, Capt. A. P. Rockwell.
3d Rhode Island Heavy Artillery, Maj. E. Metcalf.
1st Massachusetts Cavalry, Col. Robert Williams
* James Island, S. C,
CHAP. XXVI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. UNION. 363
BEAUFORT, S. C.
Brig. Gen. J. M. BRANNAN.
8th Maine, Col. J. D. Rust.
7th New Hampshire, Col. H. S. Putnam.
47th Pennsylvania, Col. T. H. Good.
50th Pennsylvania, Col. B. C. Christ.
1st U. S. Artillery, Batteries B, D,.aml
M, Capt. L. L. Langdon.
FORT PICKENS AND PENSACOLA, FLA.
Brig. Gen. LEWIS G. ARNOLD.
6th New York, Col. William Wilson.
75th New York, Col. J. A. Dodge.
91st New York, Col. J. Van Zandt.
MISCELLANEO US.
1st U. S. Artillery, Batteries A, F, andL.
2d U. S. Artillery, Batteries C and K.
Fernandina and Fort Clinch, Fla.
9th Maine, Col. R. Rich.
Fort Edisto, S. C.
55th Pennsylvania, Col. R. White.
Key West, Fla.
90th New York, Col. J. S. Morgan.
Saint Augustine, Fla.
4th New Hampshire, Col. L. Bell.
FORT PULASKI, QA.
Brig. Gen, A. H. TERRY.
48th New York, Lieut. Col. W. B. Barton.
HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE SOUTH,
Hilton Head, Port Royal, July 11, 1862.
Hon. E. M. STANTON,
Secretary of War, Washington:
SIR : I most earnestly beg that by return of mail you will give me full
authority to muster into the service of the United States, as infantry,
all loyal men to be found in my department, and that I be authorized to
appoint all the officers. This has now become a military necessity in
this department. I send by General Stevens to Fort Monroe six regi
ments, and will send four more as soon as transportation arrives. If
aflairs in the mean time should take such a turn as to render the sending
of these four additional regiments unnecessary please notify me at once.
Send sufficient transportation if they are needed. 1 have to abandon
Edisto and possibly Beaufort.
I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your most obedient servant.
D. HUNTER,
Major- General, Commanding.
HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE SOUTH,
Hilton Head, Port Royal, 8. C., July 11, 1862.
Brig. Gen. HORATIO G. WRIGHT,
Commanding U. S. Forces at North Edisto, S. C. :
GENERAL: In consequence of heavy drafts made on this department
364 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [Ciixr. XXVI.
to furnish re enforcements to the army before Richmond it has be
come necessary that North Edisto be abandoned. You will therefore
make all your arrangements for the removal of the forces under your
command to this point whenever transportation can be furnished, and
you will consult with Mr. De La Croix as to the best means of collect
ing all the negroes within our lines and on the adjacent islands, and
forwarding them to these headquarters.
As this evacuation will leave the islands without protection until
such time as our troops can be returned to us with re-enforcements,
you will please notify all Government agents and employe's of every
kind to collect such property as can be moved, and have the same
shipped under your directions to this point. Your sick and the army
stores will be moved first, and next alter these such property as may
in your judgment be worth removal.
You will also apportion sufficient transportation to the civil employes
of Government and to any loyal persons within your lines.
Very respectfully, your most obedient servant,
D. HUNTER,
Mojo r~ General^ Comm anding.
HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE SOUTH,
Hilton Head, Port Royal, 8. C., July 12, 1862.
Hon. E. M. STANTON,
Secretary of War, Washington, D. C. :
SIR: I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt, per transport pro
peller Mississippi, at G..SO p. m. last evening, of your telegraphic dis
patch directing that all the infantry force that can be spared from this
department shall immediately be sent to Fortress Monroe, and in reply
thereto have to state :
That I send immediately by the transports Mississippi, Vanderbilt,
and Merrimac six regiments of infantry, under command of Brig. Gen.
Isaac I. Stevens, consisting of the following troops :
Fiftieth Regiment Pennsylvania Volunteers.
One hundredth Regiment Pennsylvania Volunteers.
Twenty-eighth Regiment Massachusetts Volunteers.
Forty-sixth New York Volunteers.
Seventy-ninth New York (Highlanders).
Eighth Michigan Volunteers.
As soon as transportation can be furnished I will send four addi
tional regiments of infantry, under command of Brig. Gen. H. G. Wright,
to embrace as follows :
Ninety-seventh Regiment Pennsylvania Volunteers.
Fifty-fifth Begiment Pennsylvania Volunteers.
Seventh Connecticut Volunteers, and one other regiment as yet un-
assigned.
The troops thus sent and to be sent are all that can possibly be
spared in the present weakened condition of this department 'and
with an enemy flushed with his recent success on James Island in our
vicinity.
I have the honor to be, sir, with the highest esteem, vour most obe
dient servant,
D. HUNTER.
CHAP, xxvi.1 CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. UNION. 365
FORT MONROE, July 15, 1862—10.30 a. m.
Hon. E. M. STANTON,
Secretary of War :
General Hunter's force is arriving. Two regiments are here. There
will be more here to-night. What is to be done with them? General
Hunter requests me to telegraph to you the accompanying dispatch.*
JOHN A. D1X,
Major- General.
ADJUTANT GENERAL'S OFFICE,
Washington, July 23, 1862.
Major- General Dix,
U. 8. Volunteers, Fort Monroe, Va. :
Ketain the Arago twenty-four hours if she has not left, and send the
following to Major-General Hunter by the first opportunity :
ADJUTANT-GENERAL'S OFFICE,
Washington, July 23, 1862.
Your orders only required you to send to Fort Monroe such troops as you could spare
without endangering any part of your command. You will retain such forces as will
secure the safety of your positions.
By order of the Secretary of War :
L. THOMAS,
A djuiant- General.
HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE SOUTH,
Hilton Head, 8. C., July 26, 1862.
Hon. E. M. STANTON,
Secretary of War :
SIR : I have the honor to acquaint you that owing to recent devel
opments in the Department I have been led to regard as inexpedient
my first determination to send ten regiments of infantry to re enforce
the Army of the Potomac. Seven regiments have been already sent,
and no more can be spared without seriously jeopardizing the important
basis of operations and depots of stores in this department.
Very respectfully, your most obedient servant.
D. HUXTEK,
Major- General, Commanding.
HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE SOUTH,
Hilton Head, Port Royal, S. C., July 31, 1862.
Hon. E. M. STANTON,
Secretary of War, Washington, D. C. :
SIR : I have the honor to inform you that Flag-Officer DuPont has
icceived information which he regards as reliable, and which has every
appearance of being so, to the effect that the rebels in Savannah have
prepared and completed a powerful iron-mailed ram, with which to
attack the fleet and transport vessels in this harbor and attempt to
destroy the vast depots of quartermaster and commissary stores on
Hilton Head.
See of July 11, p, 363,
3fi6 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVI.
The flag-officer is making every preparation to repel the expected
attack, but previous experience shows that gunboats and war vessels
of the ordinary class cannot be safely relied upon in cases of this kind.
I have therefoVe to request, for the protection of the military stores at
Hilton Head and Beaufort, that arrangements be made with the Navy
Department for promptly sending to Port Royal Harbor one of the new
iron-mailed floating batteries of the monitor class, or, in case this should
be impossible, that the Vanderbilt or some vessel of equal weight and
speed be permanently stationed here to run down the rebel ram on its
appearance.
The information relied upon by the flag-officer is partially confirmed
by our pickets in and around Fort Pulaski, who report renewed activity
on the upper part of the Savannah Eiver, steamers coming down
within range of the guns of the fort for the purpose of taking sound
ings and row-boats being engaged in buoying out the channel.
I have the honor to be, sir, with the highest esteem, your obedient
servant,
D. HUNTER,
Major- General, Commanding.
P. S. — I have just had an interview with Flag-Officer DuPont, who
considers it extremely important to the safety of his fleet that the
Vanderbilt should be sent here immediately.
HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE SOUTH,
Hilton Head, Port Royal, S. (7., July 31, 1862.
Hon. E. M. STANTON,
Secretary of War, Washington, D. C. :
SIR : The recent call for troops to re-enforce the Army of the Poto
mac appeared so urgent that seven regiments of infantry were imme
diately dispatched, under command of Generals Wright and Stevens,
thereby making necessary the abandonment of our positions on Edisto
and Daufuskie Islands.
It is in my judgment extremely important that both these positions
should be reoccupied, and also that strong posts should be established
at Georgetown, Brunswick, and Saint Simon's Island.
I have therefore to request that re-enforcements may be sent to this
department as soon as possible, not only with a view to future opera
tions, but also for the further security of our present positions and
depots.
I have the honor to be, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
D. HUNTER,
Major -General, Commanding.
CHAP. XXVI. 1
CORRESPONDENCE. ETC. UNION.
Abstract from Return of the Department of the South, Maj. Gen. David Hunter, U. S. Army,
commanding, for July 31, 1862.
Presc
nt for
«j
I
di
ity.
1
N
ftg
Command.
•
$•5
Eemarka.
8
|
is
X
P
£ =*
I
o
3
-
1
3
^
Department staff
21
34
55
59
The follow'
Beaufort S C
134
2 996
4 131
5 170
g g s, unuer conimami
Hilton Head S C . .
188
4 919
6 130
7 0()9
Fort Pulaski, Ga
30
781
914
969
roo July 12 1862 •'
Fernandina, Fla
22
050
829
889
28th Massachusetts, Colonel Montieth.
Fort Clinch Fla
1
69
82
92
Fort Old Town Fla.
1
64
71
85
46th New York Colonel Rosa
Saint Augustine Fla
17
465
633
6fi6
79th New York Colonel Farnsworth
Key West, Fla
20
355
458
458
50th Pennsylvania Colonel Christ
Fort Jefferson Fla
13
222
252
252
Pensacola Harbor, Fla
99
2,192
2,699
2,804
July 18, the Forty-fifth Pennsylvania
Total
546
12 747
16 254
18 533
Monroe
July 20, Fort Edisto evacuated by the
forces under command of Brig. Gen. H.
G. Wright.
July 29, Brigadier-General Wright re
lieved from command at Hilton Head.
Organization of troops in the Department of the South, Maj. Gen. David
Hunter, U. 8. Army, commanding, July 31, 1862.
BEAUFORT, S. C.
Brig. Gen. JOHN M. BRANNAN.
6th Connecticut, Col. J. L. Chatfield.
8th Maine Lieut. Col. J. F. Twitchell.
4th New Hampshire (three companies),
Maj. J. D. Drew.
7th New Hampshire, Col. H. S. Putnam.
47th Pennsylvania, Col. T. H. Good.
55th Pennsylvania, Col. R. White.
1st Connecticut Battery, Capt. A. P.
Rockwell.
1st U. S. Artillery (three batteries), Capt.
L. L. Langdon.
1st Massachusetts Cavalry (three com
panies), Capt. A. H. "Stevens, jr.
1st New York Engineers (detachment).
HILTON HEAD, S. C.
Col. ROBERT WILLIAMS.
7th Connecticut, Lieut. Col. G. F. Gar
diner. .
3d New Hampshire, Lieut. Col. J. H.
Jackson.
47th New York, Lieut. Col. J. L. Fraser.
76th Pennsylvania, Lieut. Col. D. C.
Strawhridge.
97th Pennsylvania, Col. H. R. Guss.
1st Massachusetts Cavalry (nine com
panies), Maj. G. S. Curtis.
3d Rhode Island Artillery, Lieut. Col. S.
R. Bucklin.
3d U. S. Artillery, Battery E, Lieut. E.
Gittings.
1st New York Engineers, Lieut. Col. J.
F. Hall.
PENSACOLA HARBOR, FLA.
Brig. Gen. L. G. ARNOLD.
6th New York, Col. William Wilson.
75th New York, Col. J.-A. Dodge.
01st New York, Col, J, Van Zaadt, .
1st U. S. Artillery, Batteries A, F, and L.
2d U, S, Artillery, Batteries C and K,
368 COASTS OF 8. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CiiAV. XXVL
MISCELLANEOUS POSTS.
Fernandina, Fla.
9th Maine, Col. R. Rich.
Fort Clinch-, Fla.
1st New York Engineers, Company C,
Capt. J. E. Place.
Fort Jefferson, Fla.
90th New York (four companies), Lieut.
1st New York Engineers, Company E,
Fort PulasM, Ga.
Brig. Gen. A. H. TERRY.
48th New York, Col. W. B. Barton.
3d Rhode Island Artillery (one com
pany), Capt. J. H. Gould.
U. S. Engineers (detachment).
Fort Taylor, Key West, Fla.
91st New York (two cos.), Maj.C. G. Clark
Col. L. W. Tinelli.
Key West Barracks, Fla.
Fort Old Town, Fla.
90th New York (four cos.), Col. J. S.
Morgan.
Lieut. H. Farrand.
Saint Augustine, Fla.
4th New Hampshire (seven companies),
Col. Louis Bell.
HDQRS. U. S. FORCES, FORT PULASKI, KEY WEST, &o.,
Saint Augustine, Fla., August 2, 1862.
Col. E. RICH, Ninth Maine Volunteers:
The Roman Catholic bishop of Florida has complained to me that
some time since the Catholic church at Fernandina was broken open
and the vestments of the priest and a valuable chalice were stolen.
Such an act of sacrilege must be detected and punished if within the
bounds of possibility. I desire that you will make the most careful in
quiry into the alleged facts and institute the strictest search for the
perpetrators of the crime. If necessary open every knapsack in your
command and examine every house in the city.
I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
ALFRED H. TERRY,
Brigadier- General, Commanding.
WASHINGTON CITY, D. C., August 5, 1862.
Hon. E. M. STANTON,
Secretary of War, Washington, J). C. :
SIR: In reply to your letter of this date, calling for certain informa
tion in regard to the troops recently transferred from the Department
of the South and those still remaining in that department, I have the
honor to report :
1st. That the force recently transferred to Fortress Monroe, under
orders from the War Department, consisted of seven regiments of vol
unteer infantry, the aggregate strength of which I am unable to state.
They are at present under the command of Brig. Gen. I. I. Stevens.
2d. The military force remainingin that department comprises fourteen
regiments of infantry, one regiment volunteer engineers, one regiment
cavalry, three light batteries, ami three companies of regular artillery,
CHAP. XXVI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. UNION. 369
armed as infantry. This force was disposed as follows when I left Port
Royal on the 29th ultimo:
At Hilton Head and at Bay Point, on opposite side of entrance, six
regiments of infantry, one regiment volunteer engineers, one regiment
cavalry, and two light batteries.
At Beaufort, S. 0., five regiments and three companies of infantry,
one light battery, and three companies of regulars.
At Fort Pulaski, one regiment.
At Fernandina, one regiment.
At Saint Augustine, seven companies.
3d. The force remaining in the Department of the South is not only am
ply sufficient to hold the posts now occupied, with the aid afforded by
the Navy, but may in my judgment be still further reduced without en
dangering the safety of any of the positions, the extent of the reduction
depending upon the policy adopted of covering the coast to a consid
erable extent from the incursions of the rebels or simply holding the
points of actual military importance.
Assuming that all the positions now occupied are to be maintained,
it would be entirely safe, I think, to withdraw four more regiments of
infantry, the regiment of cavalry, the whole or a part of the volunteer
engineer regiments, and one or two of the light batteries. The remain
ing troops, distributed as follows, would cover securely all the positions
now occupied.
At Beaufort, four regiments infantry, one light battery, and three
companies of regulars.
At Hilton Head and Bay Point, four regiments of infantry and any
part of the engineer regiment not withdrawn.
At Fernandina, one regiment, as at present.
At Fort Pulaski and Saint Augustine, one regiment of infantry dis
tributed, six companies at the former and four companies at the latter
place.
The cavalry is of little service in the department, and should be
withdrawn if needed elsewhere. Should the demand for troops be so
pressing as to justify a change of policy in regard to the occupation
of positions in the Department of the South, a still further reduction of
force might be made to the extent of two regiments. This would leave
eight regiments of infantry and one battery of artillery in the depart
ment, and would involve the abandonment of Beaufort, and consequently
the withdrawal of the contrabands from Port Royal and the adja
cent islands and their establishment on Hilton Head. This change of
policy is of doubtful expediency, and is recommended only in case the
services of the two additional regiments secured thereby are impera
tively required elsewhere. The withdrawal of four more infantry
regiments, the regiment of cavalry, the whole or a part of the engineer
regiment, and Hamilton's regular "battery is however confidently recom
mended.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
H. G. WRIGHT,
Brigadier-General of Volunteers.
GENERAL ORDERS, ) WAR DEPT., ADJT. GENERAL'S OFFICE,
No. 98. } Washington, August 8, 1862.
West Florida is detached from the Department of the South and
24 R R — VOL xiv
370 COASTS OF s. a, GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVL
annexed to the Department of the Gulf. Brig. Gen. L. G. Arnold will
report to Major-General Butler accordingly.
By order of the Secretary of War:
E. D. TOWNSEKD,
Assistant Adjutant- General*
HDQBS. U. S. FORCES ON THE SAVANNAH EIVEB,
Fort PulasTci, Ga., August 11, 1862.
Capt. E. W. SMITH,
Acting Assistant Adjutant- General:
CAPTAIN: I have the honor to report that about 7 o'clock yesterday
morning one of the enemy's steamers was reported coming down the
Savannah Kiver, bearing a flag of truce. I immediately sent Lieut. A.
W. Goodell, adjutant Forty-eighth New York Volunteers, and post adju
tant, accompanied by Lieutenant Dandy, Forty-eighth New York Yplun-
teers, to meet her, giving him the following letter of instructions :
HEADQUARTERS U. S. FORCES ON THE SAVANNAH KIVER,
Fort Pulaski, Ga., August 10, 1862.
To A. W. GOODELL,
Adjutant Forty-eighth Xew York Volunteers, Post Adjutant:
ADJTJTANT : You will at once proceed, with the tug-boat Thomas Foulkes, to meet the
flag of truce now coming down the Savannah River, going up the South Channel and
meeting her at as great a distance from the fort as is now possible. Ascertain the
object of her visit and direct the boat to remain precisely at the point of meeting
until you communicate with me. Should the bearer of the flag desire a personal
interview with the commanding officer I will accompany you on your return, but on
no account and under no circumstances are you to permit any person connected with
the steamer to land with you at either of the wharves at this fort.
I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
WM. B. BARTON,
Colonel, Commanding.
When the steamer bearing the flag arrived at a point about 3J miles
distant from the fort I directed a gun on the northwest angle to be fired
as a signal for her to heave to, which she at once did. By the time our
boat had reached her, however, she had moved considerably nearer the
fort, partly no doubt by the action of the tide, and partly also pro
pelled by her own wheels, which turned slowly at intervals.
When Adjutant Goodell returned to the wharf he intbrmed me that
the boat was the General Lee, with Captain Stewart, of General Mer
cer's staff, on board, accompanied by three other officers, and that the
object of the visit was to bring down a Mrs. Hanley and her little son,
who desired to go North. These persons he had brought to the wharf
in the Foulkes. As soon as the lady and her boy had landed I directed
the adjutant to return to the Lee and inform Captain Stewart that I
deemed it my duty to detain the steamer until I could communicate
with the major-general commanding, which I would do at once, but that
she must positively drop her anchor where she was and remain there
until I gave her permission to go, and that if she attempted to leave
without this she would receive the fire of the fort. Meanwhile I for
warded, through Lieutenant Rushby, acting signal officer, the following
dispatch:
To General HUNTER:
Steamer with flag of truce now here. Four officers. No pretext but to bring a lady
to New York. Send instructions.
BARTON,
CHAP. XXVI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. - UNION. 371
I am informed by Adjutant Goodell that he gave to the officer in
charge of the flag the above instructions in the plainest possible man
ner, telling him at least four times to come to an anchor, and receiving
his assurance that he would do so. This statement is entirely corrobo
rated by Lieutenant Dandy and other persons then on board the Foulkes.
Our boat, however, had not reached the wharf on her return when the
wheels of the General Lee began to revolve, first slowly and then rapidly,
and the vessel to move up the river. As this was in direct violation of
my instructions, and of Captain Stewart's promise I directed the guns
on the west face of the fort to open fire upon her, but so rapidly was
she moving that she was almost immediately out of range. As she con
tinued to increase her speed and showed no disposition to stop I quickly
placed on board the Foulkes a 6-pounder and 25 men, including a de
tachment of the Third Ehode Island Artillery, in charge of Lieutenant
Blanding, of that regiment, the whole in command of Captain Coan,
Forty-eighth New York Volunteers. I directed him to pursue the re
treating steamer and make every effort to bring her back. He was
successful in this attempt. The full particulars in regard to this will
be found in Captain Coan's report, which I herewith inclose.*
Having directed the Lee to be anchored near the north wharf, and
having forwarded the following dispatch :
To General HUNTER:
I have detained the steamer and am on my way to Hilton Head.
BARTON.
I started for Hilton Head, to communicate personally with the major-
general commanding. Soon after I had left the wharf a dispatch was
received at this post as follows :
To Colonel BARTON :
Detain the rebel steamer and send the officers as prisoners to these headquarters.
HUNTER.
To which a reply was sent by Captain Elmendorf, the senior officer,
in my absence:
To General HUNTER:
Dispatch received. Tug-boat Relief aground. Shall I send prisoners with rebel
ELMENDOBF.
Meanwhile I had arrived at Hilton Head and seen the general com
manding, and received verbal instructions to forward the Lee, with all
on board as prisoners, to headquarters. These instructions were after
ward modified by the general, through Lieutenant [A. M.I Kinzie, of
his staff, by a direction to forward the officers and crew by our own
boat, which was done this morning, during my absence from the fort
Captain Elmendorf, then commanding, received these instructions,
viz:
To Captain ELMENDORF:
Retain the prisoners at the fort until Colonel Barton returns HUNTEE.
To Captain ELMENDORi1 :
Put the officers and crew of the rebel steamer in close confinement in t*
Not found.
372 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVI.
On the return of the prisoners to this post this p. m., in accordance
with instructions from the major-general commanding I permitted them
to leave with their steamer for Savannah.
In addition to Captain Coan's report I send herewith that of Adjt.
A. W. Goodell.
I have the honor to be, captain, very respectfully, your obedient
WM. B. BAETON,
Colonel Forty-eighth New York Volunteers, Commanding Post.
[Inclosure.]
HEADQUARTERS U. S. FORCES,
Savannah River, Fort PulasU, Ga., August 11, 1862.
Col. WILLIAM B. BARTON,
Forty-eighth New York State Volunteers, Comdg. Post :
COLONEL : I have the honor to report that on Sunday mornin'g, Au-
gnst 10, I received the following order from you, namely :
HEADQUARTERS U. S. FORCES,
Savannah River, Fort PulasU, August 10, 1862.
A. W. GOODELL,
Adjutant Forty-eighth New York Volunteers:
ADJUTANT : You will at once proceed with the tug-boat Thomas Foulkes to meet
the flag of truce now corning down the Savannah River, going up the South Channel,
and meeting her at as great a distance from the fort as is now possible. Ascertain
the object of her visit and direct the boat to remain precisely at the point of meeting
until you communicate with me. Should the bearer of the flag desire a personal
interview with the commanding officer I Avill accompany you on your return, but on
no account and under no circumstances are you to permit any person connected with
the steamer to land with you at either of the wharfs of this fort.
I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
WM. B. BARTON,
Colonel, Commanding.
In pursuance of the foregoing order I immediately proceeded, in com
pany with Lieutenant Dandy , Forty-eighth New York Volunteers, whom
you ordered to join me at the south wharf, and went on board the Thomas
Foulkes, hoisting a white flag at the foremast and the national flag at
the stern, and proceeded around the east end of Cockspur Island and
up the Savannah liiver. I met the flag of truce at a point 3 statute
miles by Coast Survey from this fort. The flag was borne on board a
large high -decked steamer named the General Lee. I at once made
fast to the steamer and went on board of her and communicated with
the bearer of the flag, ordering him to remain stationary and not to
approach with the tide or by other means nearer the fort, and to accom
plish which I requested him to drop his anchor. I found the officer
in charge of the flag to be Captain Stewart, of General Mercer's staff,
accompanied by Captain Stiles and Lieutenant Dent, all of the so-called
Army of the Confederate States of America. On inquiring of them what
they desired, they replied they wished to place in my charge a lady,
named Mrs. Han ley, and her little son, residents of "New York City,
who wished to proceed ^orth to their home. I received the lady and
her son with the understanding that should you not permit them to
land they were to receive them back on board their steamer and re
turn at once with them to Savannah. Meantime they (the officers
with the flag of truce) were to remain on board the General Lee until
my return to that vessel, and upon niy reporting to you, should you
comply with their wislhes as to receiving the lady and should you deem
CHAP. XXVI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. UNION. 373
further intercourse unnecessary, I was to cause a signal gun to be fired,
when they were immediately to return to Savannah. I at once returned
to the north wharf, where I met you and reported the result of my in
terview, when you took the lady and son in charge at the wharf and
directed me to return to the bearer of the flag of truce and detain him
and the steamer until you communicated by signal with General Hun
ter at Hilton Head ; you also ordered me to signalize you by three blows
of the whistle of the Thomas Foulkes in case the bearer of the flag at
tempted to leave the point of meeting in violation of your orders. I im
mediately returned again to the General Lee and executed your orders,
which they agreed to comply with. Upon reaching the steamer at this
time, however, I discovered they had not only not anchored, but had drift
ed down the river to a point just off the lower end of Long Island, distant
1 J statute miles in a direct line from this fort, and in full view of the fort
and its surroundings. I at once informed them that they had approached
nearer the fort, and inquired if they had dropped their anchor. They
said no, for they could keep her in her position by turning her wheels.
On waiting a few minutes I noticed she was still drifting down nearer
the fort. I then requested Captain Stewart to order the captain of his
steamer to drop his anchor at once and started forward with him to see
it executed. We met the captain of the steamer coming toward us, and
in answer to the order to drop anchor he replied his anchor was a
heavy one and would give him some trouble to get it up. I then said,
"Gentlemen, I shall have to leave you, but you must remain where you
are until I return with further orders from my commanding officer." I
immediately cast off, and while doing so noticed they were moving their
wheels and building their fires, when I hailed them (being then 20 yards
off) in these words, "Stop your wheels and throw your anchor or lam
afraid the fort will fire into you ;" to which I judged by their gesticula
tions they assented. 1 proceeded at once on my way to the north wharf,
and when one-half mile this side the steamer the fort opened fire on the
steamer General Lee, the first shot striking 10 yards from her starboard
side, the second the same distance from her port side, the third over
and ahead of her, and no shot struck her. Yet she put on all speed for
5 miles up the river until overhauled and fired into by the steamer in.
pursuit.
I have the honor to submit the above report, colonel, for your ap
proval.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
A. W. GOODELL,
Adjt. Forty eighth N. Y. State Vols., Actg. Post Adjutant.
HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE SOUTH,
Hilton Head, Port Royal, S. 0., August 11, 1862.
COMMANDING OFFICER AT SAVANNAH, GA. :
SIR : The flag of truce which arrived at Fort Pulaski on the 10th in
stant was accompanied by three officers, a circumstance which, taken
in connection with the improper behavior of the officer commanding the
steamer, seemed suspicious, and induced me to detain the party. A sub
sequent investigation having resulted satisfactorily, I have the honor
to return them, with the request that in future but one omcer may t
permitted to accompany a flag of truce.
I have the honor to be, your most obedient servant,
D. HU-NTIirflv,
Major- Genera I, Com m an ding.
374 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVI.
WASHINGTON, D. C., August 13, 1862.
Maj. Gen. D. HUNTER,
Commanding Department of the South:
GENERAL : The geueral-in-chief directs me, iu reply to your commu
nication of the 31st ultimo, addressed to the Secretary of War, to in
form you that no re-enforcements can at present be sent to the Depart
ment of the South.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
J. C. KELTON,
Assistant Adjutant- General.
HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE SOUTH,
Hilton Head, Port Royal, 8. C., August 14, 1862.
Hon. E. M. STANTON,
Secretary of War, Washington, D. G. :
SIR: I have the honor to report that I have received your telegram
ordering the First Massachusetts Cavalry to Fort Monroe. This leaves
the Department of the South without a mounted man, and compels the
abandonment of three of the five sea islands, now under a fine state of
cultivation, to the enemy. The moral effect of thus abandoning these
beautiful islands, after having occupied and cultivated them, will, in my
humble opinion, be greatly more injurious to our cause than any benefit
which can arise from increasing General McClellan's force by the small
number which can be sent from this department.
We have already abandoned James Island, Edieto Island, and Dau-
fuskie, and we shall now have to leave Saint Helena, Ladies, Port
Koyal, Paris, and Spring Islands, all under a fine state of culture.
Abandoning these fine islands to the enemy after having them planted
and promising the negroes protection is a very sad termination to our
exertions in this department. But with the constant diminution of my
force I am left no other alternative.
As we have to guard the whole shore of our islands vedettes are par
ticularly wanted. I have not now a mounted man to send on express
in the department.
The beautiful town of Beaufort, so necessary to our hospital purposes,
will be a great loss to us.
I have the honor to be, sir, very respectfully, your most obedient
servant,
D. HUNTER,
Major- General, Commanding.
AUGUST 22, 1862.
Referred to Major-General Halleck, general-in-chief.
EDWIN M. STANTON,
Secretary of War.
BEAUFORT, S. C., August 16, 1862.
Hon. E. M. STANTON.
Secretary of War:
DEAR SIR : I very respectfully but urgently request of you authority
enroll as laborers in the employ of the Quartermaster's Department
CHAP. XXVI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. UNION. 375
a force not exceeding 5,000 able-bodied men from among the contra
bands in this department, common laborers to be paid not exceeding $8
per month and mechanics not to exceed $10 per month, to be furnished
with soldiers7 rations, for each class. The men to be uniformed, armed,
and officered by men detailed from the Army.
My reasons for asking this authority are the following : Along the
entire coast occupied by our forces, one or two places excepted, the
people suffer greatly from fear of attack by their rebel masters, in the
event of which they expect no mercy at their hands. This fear contracts
more or less their individual labors, as well as paralyzing their efforts
for social and moral improvement. The rebellion would be very greatly
weakened by the escape of thousands of slaves with their families from
active rebel masters if they had such additional security against re
capture as these men, judiciously posted, would afford them. On the
withdrawal of our troops from Edisto it became necessary to remove
1,500 people, and most of them from loved homes of many years, to
Saint Helena Island, where were neither proper accommodations nor
adequate employment for them. Six hundred and ninety-seven acres
of cotton, 835 acres of corn, and 300 acres potatoes, the product of months
of labor, were abandoned, and unless destroyed or gathered by our forces
may fall into the hands of the rebels.
With such protection as the Navy will afford the people could return in
safety, and guarded by these men, as well as assisted in the field work
by them, the people could secure all those crops, a good harvest of figs
and oranges, as well as comfortable homes for their suffering families.
Six hundred people from Georgetown, above Charleston, and 175 from
Hutehinson's Island, for lack of sufficient protection? have also been
transferred to this overpopulated field, and necessarily embarrassing
somewhat our efforts to carry out your wishes with regard to improving
their condition. On the coast of Georgia is Saint Simon's Island, a
beautiful sea island, with a colony of 400 very interesting refugees, gath
ered and protected by the Navy alone, and thus far sustained without
any expense to the Government. This island has been guarded for along
time by negro pickets ; it is an important rendezvous, and the Navy ask
for additional protection. A few rebels have already landed, with the
intention, it has been reliably ascertained, of slaughtering every man,
woman, and child on the island. They were vigorously attacked by the
negro pickets, and during the action which ensued 2 of the latter were
killed and 1 wounded. The rebels fled, and it is believed succeeded in
making their escape from the island. What their loss was is not known.
I think some of them must have been killed. So near in this island to
the main-laud that two or three rebel flags can be seen with the naked
eye constantly floating, while the smoke of their salt manufactories black
ens the sky day and night. With a proper guarantee against recapture
an immense number of men now busily at work in gathering in crops,
manufacturing salt, &c., could be withdrawn from the enemy, and thereby
very materially increase our power over these traitors to our country.
In two or three places contrabands have been employed by the Govern
ment for several months without receiving anything save their rations
for it, no pay roll having been kept. In other cases slaves reputed to
belong to rebel masters have been employed, and at high rates, whose
wages were paid to agents of these masters. (Among these cases are
the slaves of ex-Senator Mallory, of Florida). All these abuses would
be speedily corrected by the arrangement contemplated in this request.
Thus organized, disciplined, and constantly employed, the men would
escape demoralization among themselves, and working with and for the
376 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVI.
soldiers whenever their health or efficiency demanded it, a happy recip
rocal influence upon the soldiers and these earnest and ready helpers
would almost necessarily be the result. In the event of any emergency
culling for immediate aid from these men they could promptly respond
to the call. Hoping by this arrangement to increase a little at least the
efficiency of our noble 'Army in its mighty struggles for the integrity of
our bleeding country, I beg leave to submit it for your consideration
and such action as you may deem proper.
I am, sir, with great respect, your obedient servant,
E. SAXTON,
Brigadier- General.
GENEEAL ORDERS, ) HDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF THE SOUTH,
No. 27. J Hilton Head, Port Royal, S. C., August 17, 1862.
I. The Seventh Regiment of New Hampshire Volunteers, Colonel Put
nam, will be held in readiness to embark for Saint Augustine, Fla., of
which place it will hereafter form the garrison. Lieutenant-Colonel
Sleeper, of the Fourth Regiment of New Hampshire Volunteers, on being
relieved by Colonel Putnam, will embark with the several companies
of his regiment now at Saint Augustine for this place.
II. It is with deep regret that the general commanding the depart
ment has received several reports against officers for returning fugitive
slaves in direct violation of a law of Congress. It will hardly be be
lieved when it is announced that a New England colonel is to-day, in
the second year of the rebellion, in arrest for having been engaged in
the manly task of turning over a young woman, whose skin was almost
as white as his own, to the cruel lash of her rebel master.
III. Numerous acts of pilfering from the negroes have taken place in
the neighborhood of Beaufort, committed by men wearing the uniform,
of the United States. I cannot and will not call them soldiers. To
enable General Saxton to have these petty thieves arrested and sent
to this post for punishment the three companies of the Fourth Regiment
of New Hampshire Volunteers now at Beaufort will be placed exclu
sively under his command, for service on the plantations. Major Drew,
or the officer commanding these three companies, will be directed by
General Brannan to report immediately to General Saxtou for orders.
IV. All the furniture left by the rebels on the islands, including that
left in the city of Beaufort, is hereby placed under the exclusive juris
diction of General Saxton.
By command of Maj. Gen. D. Hunter :
ED. W. SMITH,
First Lieut., Fifteenth Infantry, Actg. Asst. Adjt. Gen.
SPECIAL ORDERS, ) HDQRS. OF THE ARMY, ADJT. GEN.'S OFFICE,
»0. 202. f Washington, August 22, 1802.
*******
II. Maj. Gen. D. Hunter, U. S. Volunteers, has on his own application
a leave of absence for sixty days. He will turn over the command of
his department to the officer next in rank.
By command of Major-General Halleck:
E. D. TOWNSEND,
Assistant Adjutant- General.
CHAP. XXVI. ] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. UNION. 377
WAR DEPARTMENT,
Washington City, D. C., August 26, 1862.
Brigadier-General SAXTON :
GENERAL: Herewith you will receive instructions in relation to your
communication dated the 16th instant.
In addition to the powers therein conferred you are authorized to
enlist into the United States service for three years or during the war,
in order to fill up the regiments in the Southern Department, as many
able-bodied white persons as may be required for that purpose. The
recruits will be allowed the advanced pay and bounty authorized by
law.
Yours, truly,
EDWIN M. STANTON,
Secretary of War.
[In closure.]
WAR DEPARTMENT,
Washington City, D. C., August 25, 1862.
Brigadier-General SAXTON :
GENERAL: Your dispatch of the 16th has this moment been received.
It is considered by the Department that the instructions given at the
time of your appointment were sufficient to enable you to do what you
have now requested authority for doing. But in order to place your
authority beyond all doubt you are hereby authorized and instructed:
1st. To enroll and organize, in any convenient organization, by squads,
companies, battalions, regiments, and brigades, or otherwise, colored
persons of African descent for volunteer laborers to a number not ex
ceeding 5,000, and muster them into the service of the United States
for the term of the war, at a rate of compensation not exceeding *5 per
month for common laborers and $8 per month for mechanical or skilled
laborers, and assign them to the quartermaster's department, to do and
perform such laborers' duty as may be required in the military service
of the United States, and wherever the same may be required during
the present war, and to be subject to the Rules and Articles of War.
2d. The laboring forces herein authorized shall, under the order of
the general-in-chief or of this Department, be detailed by the Quarter
master-General for laboring service with the armies of the United States,
and they shall be clothed and subsisted after enrollment in the same
manner as other persons in the Quartermaster's service.
3d. In view of the small force under your command and the inability
of the Government at the present time to increase it, in order to guard
the plantations and settlements occupied by the United States from
invasion and protect the inhabitants thereof from captivity and murder
by the enemy, you are also authorized to arm, uniform, equip, and re
ceive into the service of the United States such number of volunteers
of African descent as you may deem expedient, not exceeding 5,000, and
may detail officers to instruct them in military drill, discipline, and
duty, and to command them. The persons so received into service
and their officers to be entitled to and receive the same pay and rations
as are allowed by law to volunteers in the service.
4th. You will re-occupy, if possible, all the islands and plantations
heretofore occupied by the Government, and secure and harvest the
crops and cultivate and improve the plantations.
5th. The population of African descent that cultivate the lands and
378 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVI.
perform the labor of the rebels constitute a large share of their military
strength, and enable the white masters to fill the rebel armies and wage
a cruel and murderous war against the people of the Northern States.
By reducing the laboring strength of the rebels their military power
will be reduced. You are therefore authorized by every means in your
power to withdraw from the enemy their laboring force and population,
and to spare no effort consistent with civilized warfare to weaken,
harass, and annoy them, and to establish the authority of the Govern
ment of the United States within your department.
Cth. You may turn over to the Navy any number of colored volun
teers that may be required for the naval service.
7th. By recent act of Congress all men and boys received into the
service of the United States who may have been the slaves of rebel
masters are, with their wives, mothers and children, declared to be
forever free. You and all in your command will so treat and regard
them.
Yours, truly,
EDWIN M. STANTON,
Secretary of War.
[WASHINGTON, August 26, 1862.
Brigadier-General BR ANNAN, Hilton Head, S. C. :
GENERAL : I inclose herewith a copy of instructions of the Secretary
of War to Brigadier-General Saxton.* You will give all possible assist
ance in carrying out these instructions. No more of the cavalry regi
ment in your command will be sent away until further orders.
This is directed to you on the supposition that General Hunter has
turned over to you the command of the department. If not, it will be
delivered to him.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
H. w. HALLECK,
General-in- Chief.
WASHINGTON, August 28, 1862.
Brigadier-General BRANNAN, Hilton Head, S. G. :
GENERAL : I wrote to you on the 26th, inclosing certain regulations
and instructions to General Saxton, and directing you to give all possi
ble aid to carry them into full effect. I also directed that no more of
the cavalry regiment be sent north.
You will do everything in your power to hold the islands now occu
pied in South Carolina and to defend the negroes who are or may be
hereafter under our protection.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
H. W. HALLECK,
Qeneral-in- Chief.
HEADQUARTERS U. S. FORCES, SAVANNAH EIYER,
Fort PulasU, Ga., August 31, 1862,
Lieut. E. W. SMITH,
Actg. Asst. Adjt. Gen., Hilton Head, S. C.:
LIEUTENANT ; I have the honor to report, for the information of the
* See Stauton to Saxton, same date.
CHAP. XXVI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. UNION. 379
general commanding, that at daylight this morning our pickets on the
northwest shore of Cockspur Island discovered and reported to me a
steamer flying the rebel flag apparently aground off Cunningham
Point, the southeastern extremity of Jones Island. The night had
been very dark and stormy, with a thick fog, which accounts for her
having escaped observation before. When the vessel was first seen
two of her boats filled with men had left her and were about a mile up
the Savannah River, on the way to Savannah, and a third immediately
followed. As it was very evident that the vessel herself was hard and
fast aground, her copper showing plainly, I directed the fire of the
fort entirely at the retreating boats, but these being at the extreme
range of our longest guns, no damage was done them. I had previously
sent orders to the tug Starlight, then at the south dock, to come im
mediately around to the north wharf, but in so doing she unfortunately
blew out the packing of her valves, so that the engineers could remain
only a moment at a time in the engine-room and her speed was greatly
lessened. Had it not been for this untoward accident doubtless the
whole party belonging to the steamer would now be in our hands. I
did not, however, permit them to escape without an effort, but pursued
them with small boats as long as there seemed to be the least hope of
overtaking them. Almost immediately after her abandonment by the
crew and long before our boats could reach her the steamer was dis
covered to be on fire, and was soon completely enveloped in flames.
Not only was she set on fire, but apparently every exertion was made
to blowup her boiler, the last without success. I judge her to have
been originally a river steamer, of about 500 tons capacity, but built
over to enable her to go to sea. She was a very handsome model, evi
dently very fast, and from the marks on her stern drew only 5 or 6 feet
of water. In appearance she was somewhat similar to the Ben De Ford.
She had a full cargo of cotton. Doubtless as soon as she grounded
preparations were made to burn her, for the flames burst out from all
points almost simultaneously and spread with inconceivable rapidity;
her boilers, machinery, anchors, &c., can easily be saved, and in my
judgment are of sufficient value to justify the sending down of a suita
ble vessel and experienced persons to remove them. I have reason to
believe her to be the Emma, a steamer well known to have run the
blockade several times heretofore to Nassau. The design of this ves
sel doubtless was to get to sea by the following route, which I pointed
out as practicable in my communication of July 29 to Major Halpine,
assistant adjutant-general, and of which the following is an extract:
In my opinion it ia by no means impossible for a steamer to run the blockade by
either of the following routes : Running under the tire of the fort for a short distance
and entering Wright River, at its mouth through Wall's Cut, Bull River, Pull-and-
be-damned Creek, Cooper River, Calibogue Sound, and thus to sea, by the channel
nearly 3 miles distant from our battery at the Martello Tower, or down Mud River,
entering Wright River, entirely out of range of the fort, and for the rest of the dis
tance by the route named above to sea.
Had she gone her length farther to the right she would have got
into the channel of Wright River and gone to sea, as she would have
approached no nearer than 5 statute miles to our battery at Martello
Tower, and after getting into Wright River would not only have been
put of range of our guns, but actually out of sight in the day-time. If
it was possible to furnish me with another steamer I think I could
make the blockade entirely effectual, at least I would undertake to do
so, but as now situated I cannot. The boat I have, and indeed all
the boats, are nearly half the time out of repair, from the fact that their
380 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVL
boilers are not intended for salt water, and with only one boat here I
am at the mercy of these accidents. Cannot a second boat (the George
Washington, for instance) be placed at my disposal ? Permit me re
spectfully to suggest that if a battery were erected on Daufuskie Island
at the point where the Cooper Eiver runs into Calibogue Sound, and
guns were mounted on the late rebel earthworks at Braddock's Point,
the blockade of Savannah would be entirely perfect, the battery at
Daufuskie to be an intrenched camp, with guns mounted on the water
front and laud side, so that one regiment would be ample both for
maiming the guns and picketing the island. I should add by way of
explanation that the channel alluded to in the above extract from my
letter of 29th July, leading from Calibogue Sound to sea, as being 3
miles from our battery at the Martello Tower, is the one which would
ordinarily be taken by vessels running out by that passage. The Emma,
however, by reason of her very light draught, could have gone out by
a shallower channel 5 miles from that battery.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
WM. B. BAKTON,
Colonel Forty-eighth New York State Vols., Comdg. Post.
SPECIAL ORDERS, \ HDQRS. OF THE ARMY, ADJT. GEN.'S OFFICE,
No. 216. { Washington, September 1, 1862.
III. Maj. Gen. O. M. Mitchel is assigned to the command of the De
partment of the South. He will irninediatelv repair to Hilton Head,
j.o.
By command of Major-General Halleck :
E. D. TOWNSEND,
Assistant Adjutant- General.
GENERAL ORDERS, ) WAR DEPARTMENT, ADJT. GEN.'S OFFICE,
No. 123. f Washington, September 3, 1862.
The forces in the Department of the South will constitute the Tenth
Army Corps, to be commanded by Maj. Gen. O. M. Mitchel.
By order of the Secretary of War :
E. D. TOWNSEND,
Assistant Adjutant- General.
GENERAL ORDERS, ) HDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF THE SOUTH,
J Hilton Head, Port Royal, S. C., Sept. 5, 1862.
I. In obedience to orders from Major-General Hunter the under-
signed assumes command of the Department of the South.
II. The following officers are announced on the staff of the general
jommanding : Capt. Louis J. Lambert, assistant adjutant-general and
chief of staff; Lieut. Ira Y. Germain and Lieut. George W. Bacon, aides-
de-camp.
J. M. BEANNAN,
Brigadier- General. Commanding.
CHAP. XXVI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. UNION. 381
HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE SOUTH,
Hilton Head, Port Royal, S. C., September [10 f], 1862.
Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLECK,
Commander -in- Chief, Washington, D. C. :
GENERAL : The steamship Ericsson arrived here this morning from
Forr Monroe with orders from the quartermaster to bring a portion of
the First Massachusetts Cavalry. As your instructions of the 2Gth
and 28th ultimo have not been countermanded by the War Department
I shall not send any more cavalry. I have therefore directed the
department quartermaster to send the steamship direct to New York
to-day, as her services may be required by the Government immediately
for more important duty. I wrote to you yesterday relative to detach
ments of the First Massachusetts Cavalry, a copy of which is herewith
inclosed.
Everything quiet in this department. The health of the troops con
tinues good for this climate j no epidemic.
1 am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
D. HUNTEK,
Major- Genera I, Commanding.
WAR DEPARTMENT,
Washington, D. C., September 11, 1862.
Major-General MITCHEL, New York :
(Care of George S. Coe, esq., president American Exchange Bank.)
Dispatches this moment received from Hilton Head render it of the
utmost consequence that you should not lose a day in proceeding to
your command. If there be no vessel about to start you will call on
the assistant quartermaster-general for immediate transportation.
EDWIN M. STANTON,
Secretary of War.
HDQRS. U. S. FORCES ON THE SAVANNAH RIVER,
Fort Pulaslci, Ga., September 15, 1862.
Capt. Louis J. LAMBERT,
Assistant Adjutant- General :
CAPTAIN : I have the honor herewith to transmit a letter addressed
to the- general commanding, which was brought from Savannah last
evening by Lieutenant Hale, Forty-eighth New York Infantry Volunteers,
who was the bearer of the flag of truce sent from this fort on Saturday.
Lieutenant Hale was stopped at the picket station near Four-Mile
Point, the officer in charge of which, as he had no other means of
communicating with headquarters, sent him through the obstructions
in the river, some 2 miles within the enemy's lines, to a second picket,
where he was detained for over twenty-four hours, entirely without
food and almost without shelter, and even after permission was given
him to return to Pulaski the boat was brought to by a shot from Fort
Jackson and kept waiting two hours in a heavy ram.
Savanrnli paper of the 13th instant.
The Planter takes this as far as Braddock's Point, and will there
await the return of the courier.
382 COASTS OP S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CIIAP.
I liave the honor to be, captain, very respectfully, your obedient
WM. B. BAETON,
Colonel Forty-eighth New York Volunteers, Commanding Post.
[Inclosure.]
CONFEDERATE STATES OF AMERICA,
HEADQUARTERS MILITARY DISTRICT OF GEORGIA,
Savannah, September 13, 1862.
Brig. Gen. J. M. BRANNAN, U. S. A.,
Commanding Department of the South :
GENERAL : I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your
communication of yesterday, and you will please accept my thanks for
the information communicated therein.
I regret to hare to say that the flag-of-truce boat violated the stipu
lation heretofore entered into in regard to communicating with our liuesr
viz, that the boat should pass up the South Channel of the river and
stop at our lower picket on that side. I must beg that in future your
attention may be directed to this point, as another departure from the
understood arrangement might lead to unpleasant consequences. For
much less cause — indeed, as I am constrained to believe, for no cause
whatever — a flag of truce sent from our lines a month ago was fired into
by Fort Pulaski, more than twenty shots being discharged at her, the
boat bearing the flag pursued and fired into by an armed steamer filled
with armed men, and the officers on board carried to Hilton Head in
the character of Fpies j a flagrant indignity and gross outrage in the
opinion of every officer here, and, as I have reason to know, is the
opinion of some of your own officers also.
I have the honor to be, general, very respectfully, your obedient
servant,
H. W. MERCER,
Brigadier- General, Commanding.
GENERAL ORDERS, \ HDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF THE SOUTH,
No. 40. J Hilton Head, Port Royal, S. €., Sept. 17, 1862.
I. Maj. Gen. O. M. Mitchel, in obedience to orders from the Adjntaut-
GeneraFs Office, hereby assumes command of the Department of the
South.
II. The following-named officers are hereby announced as members
of the staff of the major-general commanding the department: Maj.
W. P. Prentice, assistant ad jut ant- general and chief of staff; Lieuts, B.
Birch, F. A. Mitchel, and J. C. Williams, aides-de-camp; Lieut. Israel
E. Sealy, acting assistant adjutant-general.
Capt. E. W. Mitchel, assistant quartermaster, is temporarily
assigned to duty, and is hereby announced as acting aide-de-camp on
the staff of the major-general commanding the department.
O. M. MITCHEL,
Major- General, Comman ding.
CHAP. XXVI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. UNION. 385
HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE SOUTH,
Hilton Head, S. C., September 20, 1862.
Major-Gen eral HALLECK,
General-in- Chief, Washington, D. C.:
GENERAL : I Lave the honor to report that in obedience to your orders
I have assumed command of the Department of the South.
I have already inspected the troops stationed at Beaufort, at Fort
Pulaski, and on Hilton Head Island. I find their condition, as well as
that of the forts and other works, highly satisfactory. Brigadier-Gen
eral Terry has already been ordered to an inspection of the more south
ern posts of this department. He left Hilton Head on the IGth instant,
and I anticipate his return in a few days. The health of the officers
and soldiers I find to be generally good.
I regret to say that a small detachment of soldiers which arrived at
this post on the Delaware from Key West has been found to be in
fected with yellow fever. Every precaution appears to have been taken
by the commanding officer in subjecting the vessel to a vigorous and
prolonged quarantine. After the troops were landed a few cases of
fever occurred, two or three of which have resulted in death. The medi
cal director does not anticipate at present that the disease will spread.
I inclose a copy of his report.
I need not say to you, general, how anxious I am to commence active
operations against the enemy. I am entirely confident, from the slight
examination I have been able to make, that the most important results
may be reached at an early day, provided it be possible to send to this
department a moderate additional force.
I most earnestly and respectfully beg that my old division, so long
under my command, may again be placed under my orders by trans
ferring them to the Department of the South.
I am happy to say that the most cordial feeling has already been
established between Admiral DuPont and myself, and I look forward
with great pleasure to the early commencement of active operations,
in which the land and naval forces will act in conjunction. I deem it
my duty to omit no opportunity to harass and annoy the enemy, and
shall study with great care, not only the approaches to Charleston and
Savannah, but to all the intermediate points on the line of the railway
uniting these two cities.
In case my old division could be returned to my command and another
division from the new levies I should then have a force sufficiently
strong to strike the most decisive blows. The moral and military effect
of the capture and occupation of Charleston and Savannah, in my
opinion, cannot be overestimated. Every day that passes adds to the
strength of the defenses in process of construction by the enemy before
these two important cities.
I do not intend to importune the Government to increase the number
of troops under my command on my own personal account, but I should
be wanting in the discharge of the duty which devolves upon me as
commander of the Department of the South if I did not represent to the
Government in the strongest terms the vast importance of the early
capture of Charleston.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
O. M. MITCHEL,
Major- General, Commanding.
384 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVL
[In closure.]
MEDICAL DIRECTOR'S OFFICE, HILTON HEAD, S. 0.,
September 19, 1862.
Maj. W. P. PRENTICE,
Assistant Adjutant-General, Department of the South:
MAJOR: In obedience to instructions received from the major-general
commanding, I have the honor to submit the following report in regard
to the origin and existence of yellow fever at this place:
The steamer Delaware, with General Terry and staff on board, left
Hilton Head on the 26th of July for Saint Augustine, Key West, and
Fort Jefferson, Tortugas. She returned here on the 26th of August,
bringing a detachment of soldiers belonging to the Seventh New Hamp
shire Volunteers, who had been left sick at Fort Jefferson, Tortugas,
when the regiment left the post in June last. They were all men who
Lad been invalids for a long time and broken down in constitution.
The steamer left Key West on the 14th of August, arriving here, as
before stated, on the 26th, and was ordered to the quarantine at Saint
Helena Sound, about 20 miles from this place. Asst. Surg. [W. F.]
Cornick, U. S. Army, under orders from this place, and a passenger on
board the Delaware, having been on duty at Key West for some time
past and much exposed to yellow fever, was taken sick almost imme
diately after leaving Key West with what he supposed to be a mild
case of yellow fever, but had entirely recovered from it before his arrival
here, and no other case of sickness then existed on board the steamer.
The vessel remained at quarantine twelve days, and as it was then re
ported to me by Surgeon J. C. Dalton, U. S. Volunteers (who was a pas
senger), that there was no sickness on board, she was allowed to come
to Hilton Head. Three days subsequent to the lauding of the passen
gers yellow fever developed itself among the detachment of the Seventh
New Hampshire Volunteers, and during the last nine days there have
been eight deaths in the detachment. The disease has not spread be
yond it, and during the last three days there have been no new cases.
As the remainder of the detachment has been sent to New York in the
steamer Delaware I am greatly in hopes that no more cases will occur.
The other chartered vessels, with Government stores on board, which
have arrived here from Key West have also been sent to New York.
I am satisfied that the only method of keeping yellow fever away from
here is to stop any and all communication with any infected post.
In this instance twenty-eight days elapsed between the time that the
steamer Delaware left Key AVest (the only infected post then visited)
and its development after their arrival and debarkation here.
I remain, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
C. H. CEANE,
Medical Director, Department of the South.
HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE SOUTH,
Hilton Head, S. C., September 20, 1862.
The Hon. the SECRETARY OF WAR,
Washington, D. G. :
SIR: I have the honor to report to the Department my arrival at
i headquarters on the afternoon of Monday, the 15th instant.
On assuming command I immediately commenced an inspection of
CHAP. XXVI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. UNION. 385
the various bodies of troops in the immediate vicinity of Hilton I lend
and at this post. This duty was closed to-day, and 'it gives me great
pleasure to report that I have found the officers and soldiers at Beau
fort, at Fort Pulaski, and on Hilton Head Island in a condition of
health, discipline, drill, and esprit highly satisfactory.
If consistent with the interest of the service, I most earnestly beg
that my old division may be transferred to the Department of the South
and once more placed under my command. I do not make this appli
cation without due reflection, and I make it because I am satisfied that
when this department comes to be re-enforced, which I trust may be
speedily done, I can accomplish more with the troops who have been
trained by me, who know me personally, and to whom I am devotedly
attached, than with twice thejmmber of troops to whom I am an entire
stranger. I am satisfied that while a soldier may enlist through mo
tives of patriotism he fights for his general.
I feel it my duty to inform the Secretary of War that the independent
command given to General Saxton has not thus far been productive
of the best results. Some friction, and even collision, has taken place
already between the officers of the two independent commands, and I
am entirely certain that no matter how harmoniously General Saxton
and myself may be able to work together there will be trouble con
stantly arising among the subordinates.
It is my duty to report to the War Department and to the Government
that I find a feeling prevailing among the officers and soldiers of preju
dice against the blacks, founded upon the opinion that in some way the
negroes have been more favored by the Government and more privileges
granted to them than to the volunteer soldier. I do not pretend to say
that this feeling has any foundation in fact, but I am entirely certain
that under the existing organization there is little hope of allaying or
destroying a feeling widely prevalent and fraught with the most injurious
consequences. I would therefore earnestly recommend that the officers
in charge of the negroes, the plantations, and the interests attaching
thereto be placed under the direct control of the general commanding
the department. I am not prompted to make this recommendation by
any desire to extend my own authority or to increase the responsibilities
already devolved upon me, but solely in the hope that the change pro
posed will diminish, if not destroy, all the causes of controversy which
have hitherto existed.
I have been diligently engaged in the study of the maps presenting
the topography and hydrography of the region extending from Char
leston to Savannah, and I am not quite sure that it is possible, even
with the force now under my command, to do something to harass and
annoy the enemy. While it is not my intention, without sufficient
object, to jeopardize my troops, I shall omit no opportunity of striking
a blow, no matter how unimportant, at the enemy's lines of intercom
munication.
May I venture to ask your attention to the promotion of my staff,
which now only requires the sanction of the President, since the troops
in the department now constitute the Tenth Army Corps.
The names of the officers recommended by me are in the hauds of the
President.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
Major -General, Comdg. Department of the South.
25 B K— VOL xiv
386 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVL
HDQRS. U. S. FORCES, FORT PULASKI, KEY WEST, &c.,
Hilton Head, S. C., September 23, 1862.
Maj. W. P. PRENTICE,
Assistant Adjutant- General, Department of the South :
MAJOR : I have the honor to report that in obedience to orders re
ceived from Brigadier-General Braunan, then commanding the De
partment of the South, I on. the 16th instant left this place for Saint
Augustine, for the purpose of preventing the execution of certain orders
issued by Brig. Gen. Eufus Saxton, the superintendent of the inhabit
ants of abandoned plantations in this department, by which Lieut.
Col. O. T. Beard, provost-marshal, was directed to expel from Saint
Augustine and send to Jacksonville all such of the people of the city
MS should refuse to take the oath of allegiance to the Government of the
I'nitrd States, &c. I arrived at Fernaudina, Fla., on Wednesday, the
17th instant, and learning that if I proceeded directly to Saint Augus
tine the steamer Burnside, with the expelled persons on board, might
pass me in the night, I went first to the mouth of the Saint John's, for
the purpose of awaiting her arrival. On Thursday morning she was
off the bar of the Saint John's, with a large number of women and chil
dren on board. I immediately caused her to return to Saint Augustine
and proceeded there myself.
On my arrival I caused all those persons who had been expelled or
placed in arrest to be released, and instructed the commandant of the
post to permit no more arrests to be made by authority of General
Saxton.
I inclose a copy of General Saxton's instructions to Colonel Beard,*
a copy of a letter from General Saxton to Colonel Putnam, Seventh
New Hampshire Volunteers, whose regiment garrisons the post,* and
a list of the names of the persons placed on board the Burnside.*
Among the expelled persons were some who now desire to leave
Saint Augustine. In anticipation of the expulsion they sold whatever
property they possessed and converted their means into funds current
in the Southern States only. They now find themselves without the
means of subsistence. In view of the fact that many of them are
already and others will soon become dependent on the Government
for subsistence, I respectfully recommend that such of them as may
desire to do so be permitted to leave the city.
I am, major, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
ALFEED H. TEEEY,
Brigadier -General, Commanding.
HDQRS. EXPED'RY FORCES, ST. JOHN'S EIVER, FLA.,
Jacksonville, October 7, 1862.
Maj. Gen. O. M. MITCHEL,
Comdg. Department of the South, Hilton Head, S. C.:
GENERAL : I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your com
munication of the 5th instant.
I return by the U. S. transport Boston the Seventh Eegiment Con
necticut Volunteers, Colonel Hawley commanding, and will return
myself with the balance of my command on the Boston being sent
The transport Cosmopolitan, having in crossing the bar, unfor-
* Not found.
CHAP. XXVI.]
CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. UNION.
387
tunately run aground and knocked a hole in her bottom, is in the river,
and cannot be removed until thoroughly repaired. The guns, carriages,
ammunition, &c., are now on board the transport Neptune and will be
forwarded to Hilton Head forthwith. The batteries and works on Saint
John's Bluff* are completely destroyed, and, as I have since found it im
practicable to remove the corn on the banks of Saint John's River, the
object of the expedition has been attained sooner than I had antici
pated when writing my last communication.
I have sent an expedition up the river for the purpose of destroying
some rebel steamboats said to be concealed some miles from this. It is
expected back early to-morrow, October 8, when I shall be ready to
return, and merely awaiting the Boston.
Many refugees, with their families, and about 100 contrabands have
placed themselves under my protection, and it is my intention to bring
them to Hilton Head on my return.
Since my last communication I have discovered another battery, not
yet mounted but ready for the reception of guns. This the gunboats
will destroy before leaving the river.
I am deeply indebted to Captain Steedman, U. S. Navy, commanding
the gunboats in this river, for his prompt offer of assistance to relieve
the transport Cosmopolitan and for his hearty co-operation during the
entire expedition.
I have the honor to be, general, most respectfully, your obedient
servant,
J. M. BKANNAN,
Brigadier- General, Commanding.
GENERAL ORDERS, ) HDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF THE SOUTH,
No. 46. J Hilton Head, Port Royal, 8. C., October 27, 1862.
In consequence of the temporary illness of the major-general com
manding Brig. Gen. J. M. Brannan will assume command of the De
partment of the South.
By command of Mai. Gen. O. M. Mitchel :
ISRAEL R. SEALY,
Second Lieutenant, Forty-seventh N~. Y. Vols., A. A. A. 0.
Abstract from Return of the Department of the South, Brig. Gen. J. M. Brannan com
manding, for the month of October, 1862, headquarters Hilton Head, S. C.
Pre«
di
mt for
ity.
|
1
11
si
Command.
i
o
I
•<f
i
•«f
-i*
"S « >>
HI
<j *
'
38
29
68
70
64
Hifton Head and Fort Seward, S. C., and Graham's Plantation.
Beaufort SC
134
133
3,508
3,556
4,561
4,957
5,094
5,806
5,230
5,826
Fort Pulaski, Ga., Key West. Fla., Fernandina and Fort
Clinch, Fla., Old Town and Saint Augustine, Fla,
110
2,682
3,251
3,462
3,482
415
9,775
12,837
14, 432
14, 602
388
COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVI.
Organization of troop* in the Department of the South, commanded l>y
Brio. Gen. J. M. Brannan, headquarters Hilton Head, S. C., October
31, 1862.
HILTON HEAD AND FORT SEWARD, 8. C.
Brig. Gen. A. H. TERRY commanding.
3d Now Hampshire, Colonel J. H. Jack
son.
47th New York, Col. J. L. Fraser.
76th Pennsylvania, Col. D. C. Straw-
bridge.
97th Pennsylvania, Col. H. R. Guss.
3d Rhode Island Artillery, Lieut. Col. S.
R. Bucklin.
3d U. S. Artillery, Battery E, Lient. E.
Gittings.
1st New York Engineers, Col. E. W. Ser-
rell.
GRAHAM'S PLANTATION.
1st Massachusetts Cavalry (detachment),
Lieut. J. G. Thayer.
FORT PULASKI, GA.
48th New York, Col. W. B. Barton.
3d Rhode Island Artillery, Company G,
Capt. J. H. Gould.
FORT CLINCH, FLA.
1st New York Engineers, Company C,
Capt. J. E. Place.
OLD TOWN, FLA.
1st N. Y. Eng's. Co. E, Lieut. H. Farrand.
BEAUFORT, S. C.
Col. T. H. GOOD commanding post.
6th Connecticut, Maj. L. Meeker.
7th Connecticut, Col. J. R. Hawley.
8th Maine, Col. J. D. Rust.
4th New Hampshire, Col. Louis Bell.
47th Penn., Lieut. Col. G. W. Alexander.
55th Pennsylvania, Col. Richard White.
1st Massachusetts Cavalry (battalion),
Maj. A. H. Stevens, jr.
1st Connecticut Light Battery, Capt. A.
P. Rockwell.
1st New York Eng's, Co. H, Capt. F. II.
Cruso.
KEY WEST, FLA.
90th New York, Col. J. S. Morgan.
FERNANDINA, FLA.
9th Maine, Col. Rish worth Rich.
SAINT AUGUSTINE, FLA.
7th New Hampshire, Col. H. S. Putnam.
GENERAL ORDERS, ) HDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF THE SOUTH,
No. 47. J Hilton Head, Port Royal, S. C., November 1, 1862.
The Tenth Army Corps will learn with regret of the death of its com
mander, Maj. Gen. O. M. Mitch el, who departed this life at 6.30 o'clock
on the evening of the 30th October, 1862, at Beaufort, S. C.
Maj. Gen. O. M. Mitch el was a graduate of the Military Academy,
West Point, 1829, but retired from the Army after a short period of
service until the danger of his country again called him to arms. At
the outbreak of the present rebellion and in the West, where he com
manded a division of our Army as brigadier-general of volunteers, he
proved himself to be a gallant and efficient commander.
Brief as was his career in the Department of the South, yet had he
already won the esteem and regard of all by his energy and activity
in directing the movements of the corps against the adjoining rebels
and the firmness and tempered justice with which he conducted the ad-
ininistrative duties of the department.
He died with the calm fortitude of a believing Christian, and while
we lament the death of a gallant soldier and a kind friend, let us en
deavor to emulate the virtues and soldierly qualities of our late com
mander.
As an appropriate tribute of respect to his memory, on the day fol
lowing the receipt of this order, at every military post of this depart
ment, thirteen minute guns will be fired, commencing at meridian, and
the flag of the Union to be displayed at half-mast from, that hour to
CHAP. XXVI.]
CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. — UNION.
389
sunset on the same day, and for thirty days the prescribed badge of
mourning will be worn by the officers of the Tenth Army Corps.
J. M. BKANNAN,
Brigadier- General, Commanding.
GENERAL ORDERS, > HDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF THE SOUTH,
No. 51. J Hilton Head, Port Royal, 8. C., November 6, 1862.
The general commanding desires to express to that portion of the
corps composing the late expedition to Pocotaligo, S. 0., under his per
sonal command, viz, the First and Second Brigades, the First New York
Engineer Corps, Third Ehode Island Artillery, and Forty-eighth Ncu
York Regiments, with the Third Battalion First Massachusetts Cavalry,
and sections of light artillery from the First and Third U. S. Artillery
Regiments, his approbation of their gallant and distinguished conduct
during that expedition.
Though laboring under many disadvantages, yet by superior courage
and determination was a greater force of the rebels driven from their
strong and well studied positions at Caston and Framptou, and pursued,
flying and in confusion, to their intrenchments 011 the Pocotaligo.
The commanding general has learned from the events of this expe
dition that he can place the most implicit confidence in the bravery
and devotion of his troops, and feels satisfied that in all subsequent
operations the Tenth Army Corps will proudly maintain the good repu
tation they so hardly earned on the plains of the Pocotaligo.
By command of Brig. Gen. J. M. Brannan:
LOUIS J. LAMBERT,
Assistant Adjutant- General, Tenth Army Corps.
SPECIAL OBDEKS, ) HDQRS. OF THE ARMY, ADJT. GEN.'S OFFICE,
No. 352. J Washington, November 18, 18G2.
I. Brig. Gen. Truman Seymour, U. S. Volunteers, will repair to Hilton
Head, S. C., and report for duty to the commanding officer Department
of the South.
###*#**
By command of Major-General Halleck :
E. D. TOWNSEND,
Assistant Adjutant- General.
Abstract from Return of the Department of the South, Brig. Gen. J. M. Brannan com
manding, for the month of December, 1862, headquartei-s Hilton Head, S. C.
Prest
nt for
«
a
^
di
ity.
I
£-M
M
I*
p.g
P.*r
j
o f-1
Command.
rf
I
1*
ib
•
£
§§
£^§
tfl
d
bfi
%2a
0
3
-<
j
•<
30
29
59
64
66
Saint Helena Island, Hilton Head, S. C., Brig. Gen. A. H.
136
3,407
4,476
4,906
4, 926
Terry.
1C9
3,069
5, 135
5,615
5, 650
Fort Pulaski, Ga., Key West, Fla., Fernandina, Ma., Fort
Clinch, Fla., Old Town, Fla., Saint Augustine, Fla.
114
3,023
3,702
3,881
a,«js
447
10,428
13, 370
14,464
14, 5.79
390
COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVI.
Organization of troops in the Department of the South, commanded ly
Brig. Gen. J. M. Brannan, headquarters Hilton Head, S. C., December
31, 18G±
SAINT HELENA ISLAND, HILTON HEAD, 8. C.
Brig. Gen. A. H. TERRY commanding.
3d New Hampshire, Col. J. H. Jackson.
47th New York, Maj. G. Van Brunt.
7Gth Pennsylvania, Col. D. C. Straw-
bridge.
97th Pennsylvania, Col. H. R. Guss.
1st Massachusetts Cavalry, Company M,
Lieut. J. G. Thayer.
3d Rhode Island Art'y, Col. E. Metcalf.
3d U. S. Artillery, Battery E, Capt. J.
Hamilton.
1st New York Engineers, Lieut. Col. J.
F. Hall.
FORT PULA8KI, GA.
48th New York, Col. W. B. Barton.
3d Rhode Island Artillery, Company G,
Capt. J. H. Gould.
1st New York Engineers, Company F,
Capt. S. C. Eaton.
FERNANDINA, FLA.
9th Maine, Col. Rishworth Rich.
OLD TOWN, FLA.
1st New York Engineers, Company E,
Lieut. H. Farrand.
PORT ROYAL ISLAND, S. C.
Brig. Gen. T. SEYMOUR commanding.
6th Connecticut, Col. J. L. Chatfield.
7th Connecticut, Col. J. R. Hawley.
8th Maine, Col. J. D. Rust.
4th New Hampshire, Col. Louis Bell.
90th New York, Col. Joseph S. Morgan.
55th Pennsylvania, Col. Richard White.
1st Massachusetts Cavalry (battalion),
Maj. A. H. Stevens, jr.
1st Connecticut Light Battery, Capt. A.
P. Rockwell.
1st U. S. Artillery, Batteries B, D, and
M, Capt. L. L. Langdon.*
1st New York Engineers, Company H,
Capt. F. H. Cruso.
KEY WEST, FLA.
47th Pennsylvania, Col. T. H. Good.
FORT CLINCH, FLA.
1st New York Engineers, Company C,
Capt. J. E. Place.
SAINT AUGUSTINE, FLA.
7th New Hampshire, Col. H. S. Put
nam.
HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE SOUTH,
Hilton Head, Port Royal, 8. 0., January 20, 1863.
Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLECK,
Oeneral-in- Chief U. 8. Army, Washington, D. G. :
GENERAL : I have the honor to report my arrival in this department
af\,er a very boisterous and stormy voyage through weather to which
I fear some of the re-enforcements ordered from New Berne, N. C., may
have been exposed. I found on arriving here the steamer Ironsides
already at anchor and the iron-clad Montauk came in a few hours after,
it being reported from the signal station, though as yet not confirmed,
that two more of the monitor iron-clads were visible outside the bar.
The storm of wind and rain still continues so fierce that I have not
been able to communicate with Admiral DuPont, and therefore am
without definite information on this subject.
I find the aggregate strength of the department to be 14,395 men and
officers, and that the health of the command appears fully up to the
average, all traces of the yellow fever having disappeared, and the
small-pox, of which we have had some cases at Beaufort and on this
island, being thus far confined to the contrabands, who have been placed
in quarters at a distance from the camps.
1 have earnestly to request that a regiment of cavalry may be sent
to this department, as we have here but four reduced troops of the First
CHAP. XXVI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. — UNION. 391
Massachusetts Cavalry, and shall be greatly straitened for the want of
this arm when we debark upon the main-land, the enemy, as usual,
being doubtless well supplied with horse.
I would ask, if consistent with the good of the service, that the Six I li
United States Cavalry, my own regiment, might be the one sent, my
self and Brigadier- General Emory, its lieutenant-colonel, being both
detached from it.
Previous to my leaving the department I made last August an ap
plication for cavalry in lieu of the two battalions of the First Massa
chusetts Cavalry tben ordered North, stating the absolute necessity that
existed here for such troops, and to the terms of that application [
must respectfully refer you.
Believe me to remain, general, with sincere respect, your most obe
dient servant,
D. HUNTER,
Major- General, Commanding.
GENERAL ORDERS, ) HDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF THE SOUTH,
. No. 3. j Hilton Head, Port Royal, 8. C., January 20, 18G3.
Agreeably to special instructions from the Government the under
signed hereby resumes command of the Department of the South. It
is with sincere pleasure that the general commanding returns to this
department — the brave men of the North, whose destiny has been oast,
having never failed, although without many opportunities for great dis
tinction, to do their whole duty when called upon — as witness Port Royal,
Pulaski, James Island, and Pocotaligo, names to which every soldier of
the command may look back with" pride. Although not always suc
cessful — a thing depending on causes often beyond their controi — they
have the fully equal merit of always having deserved success. In view
of the active operations about to commence in this department the gen
eral commanding would remind officers and enlisted men of the absolute
necessity of a strict, prompt, and unquestioning obedience to all orders.
Without implicit, complete, and hearty obedience an army is a mere
mob. With discipline there is safety, honor, and the full assurance of
being able to render substantial service to our country. The general com
manding would deeply regret should a single man be killed while basely
deserting his colors ; but he would remind all officers that it is their im
perative duty instantly to put to death any officer or enlisted man who
shall be found deserting his brave comrades who are doing their duty
in front. Each officer who may find it necessary to execute this prompt
punishment of cowardice and treason will, as soon after the act as the
exigencies of the service may permit, report what he has done to these
headquarters, giving the name of the traitor slain and of such witnesses
as can prove the justification of the penalty.
No officer or soldier will leave the battle-field for the purpose of tak
ing oif the wounded, who will be much better attended to by the am
bulance men and the nurses. Poor wounded men, helpless in the hands
of their torturers, are often mangled to death while being improperly car-
riedfrom the battle-field by renegades, who use the pretense of humanity
as a cloak for their anxiety to secure their own safety, regardless of the
sufferings of their victims. The attention of all commanding officers
in this department is urgently drawn to General Orders, No. 2G, from
these headquarters, dated Hilton Head, Port Royal, S. C., August 15,
series of 1862, and the same will be read at the head of each brigade,
392
COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVI.
regiment, company, and detachment on the parade next succeeding the
issuing and receipt of this order. The general commanding desires that
in all ways and by every means within their power regimental and com
pany officers will impress upon their men the importance of having a
perfect mastery of and reliance upon their bayonets.
The following-named officers are announced as the staff of the major-
general commanding, and will be obeyed and respected accordingly : Brig.
( ien. Truman Seymour, chief of staff and chief of artillery ; Lieut. Col.
( 'hades G. Halpine, assistant adjutant- general ; Maj. Edward W. Smith,
assistant adjutant- general; Lieut. Israel E. Sealy, acting assistant ad-
jutant-geueral; Lieut. Col. J. H.Wilson, assistant in spector- general ;
Lieut. Col. M. K. Morgan, chief commissary of subsistence; Surg.
Charles H. Crane, medical director; Maj. E. E. Pauiding, chief pay
master ; Capt. James C. Duane, chief of engineers ; Capt. John W. Todd,
chief of ordnance ; Col. James D. Fessenden, aide-de-camp; Maj. Ed
ward Wright, aide-de-camp ; Capt. E. W. Thompson, A. C. S., acting
aide-de-camp; Capt. William E. Dole, aide-de-camp; Capt. Yolney
Hickox, aide-de-camp ; Capt. Samuel W. Stockton, aide-de-camp ; Capt.
Arthur M. Kiuzie, aide-de-camp; Lieut. Charles E. Hay, acting aide-de
camp ; Lieut. Eichard Skinner, acting aide-de-camp. Such vacancies
as exist in the staff will be filled and announced in subsequent orders.
D. HUNTBE,
Major- General, Commanding.
HEADQUARTERS U. S. FORCES, PORT EOYAL ISLAND,
Beaufort, S. C. January 25, 1803.
(Eeceived at Hdqrs. Dept. of the South January 27, 1863.)
Lieut. Col. CHARLES Gr. HALPINE, Assistant Adjutant- General :
COLONEL : I have the honor to report the following as the effective
strength of my command, together with the number, kind, and caliber
of arms in use :
Present
strength.
Arms.
4
8
S
05
A
S
Regiments.
!
led mnsk<
r.69.
caliber .5
caliber .5
s, caliber
es, caliber
§
I
muskets
iber .69.
?s, caliber
•e.2
f;
i
s
1
|
v
p
s
L
•11
%
|
i
'S
s
<rt
1
S
Numbe
1
1
i
Enfield
1
.1
!
French
•e
02
|S
03
1
90th New York Vol
10
27
465
527
unteers.
6th Connoc.ticut Vol
10
23
536
582
164
unteers.
55th Perm s y 1 v a n i a
Volunteers.
10
25
570
106
32
425
8th Maine Volun
10
31
660
134
307
289
56
teers.
4th New Hampshire
Volunteers.
10
30
553
672
Volunteer Engineers.
1st Massachusetts
Cavalry.
1
3
2
6
52
196
52
*30
Total...
54
144
3,032
134
1,468
164
289
162
672
32
425
30
•
* Extra-duty men included.
CHAP. XXVI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. UNION. 393
The men detailed on extra duty and provost guard are not included
in this report, with the exception of the First Massachusetts Cavalry.
T. SEYMOUR,
Brigadier- General.
HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE S&UTH,
Hilton Head, Port Royal, 8. C., January 26, 1863.
Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLECK,
General-in-Chief U. S. Army, Washington, D. C.:
GENERAL: The Star of the South going North this afternoon, I have
the honor to report the arrival here of the One hundred and fifteenth
Regiment New York State Volunteers in good condition. We are
anxiously expecting the arrival of the re-enforcements from New Berne,
N. 0., but none have yet come, the regiment above named having come
from Fortress Monroe.
Let me not be thought troublesome in again urging upon your atten
tion the importance of having all the requisitions from this dejjartment
sent by the last and preceding mails filled as speedily as possible, in
order that the Army may not be behind when the Navy is ready. It
would be a reproach to our branch of the service, or at least a chance
of honorable distinction lost, should we not be able to take part in the
reduction of Charleston. I would much prefer assisting the Navy and
receiving assistance from the gallant men under Admiral DuPout to
merely entering Charleston as a garrison of occupation under cover of
the guns of the fleet. I will briefly advise you of events here, if any, by
each mail.
Believe me, with high esteem, your very obedient servant,
D. HUNTER,
Major- General, Commanding.
HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE SOUTH,
Hilton Head, Port Eoyal, 8. C., January 26, 1863.
Maj. Gen. N. P. BANKS,
Commanding Department of the Gulf, New Orleans, La. :
GENERAL: I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your com
munication, dated the 10th instant, forwarding a request from Colonel
Holabird, chief quartermaster of your department, for coal, forage, in
trenching tools, &c., and in reply I have to state that I have much
pleasure in sending as much coal and forage as the vessel sent will carry,
but that, as we are about to commence immediately upon the arrival of
request
quisitions for a larger amount of engineering material were forwarded
to General Totten by the steamer Arago, which left here last Saturday,
and I am only anxious lest the supplies called for may not arrive in
time.
I have the honor to be, general, your most obedient servant,
D. HUNTER,
Major- General, Commanding.
394 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVI.
GENERAL ORDERS, ) HDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF THE SOUTH,
No. 8. f Hilton Head, Port Royal. IS. <7., February 6, 1863.
I. Lieut. Col. J. J. Elwell, quartermaster, U. S. Volunteers, is hereby
announced as chief quartermaster of the Tenth Army Corps and of the
Department of the South.
II. First Lieut. H. S. Tafft is announced as chief signal officer of the
Department of the South.
By command of Maj. Gen. D. Hunter:
ED. W. SMITH,
Assistant Adjutant- General.
HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE SOUTH,
Hilton Head, Port Royal, S. C., February 7, 1863.
(Received at Headquarters of the Army, February 13, 1863.)
Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLECK, .
General-in-Chief U. S. Army, Washington, D. C.:
GENERAL : I have the honor to report that the re-enforcements or
dered to this department from North Carolina, 10,000 infantry with 600
artillery, arrived safely here on the 1st instant, accompanied by Major-
General Foster, who kindly came here on iny invitation, expecting that
operations against Charleston would commence immediately, in which
case his thorough acquaintance with the harbor and its defenses would
have proved of the highest service.
I regret to say, however, that in consequence of the non-arrival of
the two monitor iron-clads Patapsco and Nahant, and the serious in
juries sustained by the monitor Weehawken in her voyage hither, ren
dering it requisite for the admiral to send North for complete new ma
chinery in her case, the Navy will not be ready to undertake its part
for the next three or four weeks, although the land forces under my
command are now ready to embark at six hours7 notice. This point I
wish clearly understood, the complaint having been too frequent here
tofore that in joint operations the Navy has been retarded by having
to wait for the land forces.
In view of this unavoidable delay I learn that Major-General Foster
intends returning immediately to the Department of North Carolina.
The health of the troops is unusually good.
Captain Duane, U. S. Engineers, arrived by the Star of the South
last Wednesday; an officer on whose military skill and judgment I place
the highest reliance.
I find Brigadier-General Seymour, my chief of staff and of artillery,
all that could be desired.
I have the honor to be, general, with the highest respect, your obe
dient servant,
D. HUNTER,
Major- General, Commanding.
GENERAL ORDERS, ) HDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF THE SOUTH,
f Hilton Head, Port Royal, S. C., February 7, 1863.
In view of the military necessities of this department, which require
all the lands now held within our posts and lines for the use of the sol-
CHAP. XXVI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. — UNION. " 395
diers and the support of the colored population, and in further view of
legislation now pending, all sales of lands which have become forfeited
to the United States by reason of the non-payment of the direct taxes
charged thereon, under the act entitled "An act to provide increased
revenue from imports, to pay interest on the public debt, and for other
purposes," approved August 5, 1861, and an act entitled "An act for the
collection of direct taxes in insurrectionary districts within the United
States, and for other purposes," approved June 7, 1862, are hereby sus
pended ; and all advertising of said lands and all steps looking to the
sale of the same shall cease until the pleasure of the Government in the
premises shall be made known.
By command of Maj. Gen. David Hunter:
OHAS. G. HALPINE,
Assistant Adjutant- General.
GENERAL ORDERS, ) HDQRS. EIGHTEENTH ARMY CORPS,
No. — . ) Flag-ship Farran* February 7, 1863.
During the temporary absence of General Foster the detachment of
the Eighteenth Army Corps in the department will be under the com
mand of Brigadier-General Naglee.
As the detachment is only intended to co-operate with the troops in
this department the command will be considered distinct.
The troops will be immediately landed at Saint Helena Island and
the transports will be thoroughly cleansed and supplied afresh with
subsistence stores, coals, and water for ten days.
Requisition will be made on the Quartermaster's Department for surf-
boats and scows, which will be put in order for the disembarkation of
troops.
By command of Maj or- General Foster:
J. F. ANDERSON,
Major and Acting Assistant Adjutant- General.
NAVY DEPARTMENT, February 9, 1863.
Hon. E. M. STANTON,
Secretary of War:
SIR : The Department has information that the rebel gunboat Chatta-
hoochee is now in the Apalachicola River waiting a suitable oppor
tunity to run out, and that there are also other gunboats building up
that river within reach of our light-draught steamers.. It is thought that
a joint naval and military expedition upon a small scale could effect
the capture or destruction of those vessels and inflict other serious in
jury upon the insurgents in that quarter. I would therefore respect
fully request that a suitable military force may be detailed to co-oper
ate with such a naval force as Acting Rear- Admiral Bailey at Key
West may consider necessary for the purpose indicated.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,^ ^^
Secretary of the Navy.
396 ' COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVI.
HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE SOUTH,
Hilton Head, Port Royal, S. C., February 11, 1863.
MJIJ. Gen. H. W. HALLECK,
General-in-Chief U. S. Army, Washington, D. C.:
GENERAL: On the 1st instant General ETaglee arrived here with a
portion of the forces ordered by the Government to re-enforce this de
partment. A few days after General Foster arrived and reported ver
bally with the remaining portion of the command.
As I had invited General Foster into this department I of course
received him with cordiality and kindness. He left yesterday or the day
before, I understand, for Washington.
On calling on General Naglee for a return of his command, in order
to make up our department report for the 10th instant (certified copy
inclosed), I received from him a reply, a certified copy of which is here
with transmitted.
As the conduct of Major-General Foster has been disrespectful, in
subordinate, and tending to excite mutiny and insubordination among
the troops ordered to re-enforce this department, in this matter I shall
deem it my duty, should General Foster return here, immediately to
arrest him.
During the present distracted state of the country I regret exceed
ingly that General Foster should have so far lost sense of his duty;
but in view of the best interests of the service and my own responsi
bility as commander of this department no other alternative is left.
I inclose herewith copy of my general orders assuming command of
the re-enforcements.
I have the honor to be, general, with the highest esteem, your most
obedient servant,
D. HUNTER,-
Major- General, Commanding.
[Inolosures.]
HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE SOUTH,
Hilton Head, Port Royal, IS. C., February 9, 1863.
Brig. Gen. H. M. NAG-LEE,
Commanding Division, Saint Helena Island, S. C. :
GENERAL: I am instructed by the major-general commanding to in
form you that, having to make up our department returns to-morrow,
it will be necessary for you to send us a return of the forces under your
command at your earliest convenience.
I have the honor to be, general, very respectfully, your most obedient
servant,
CHAS. G. HALPINB,
Assistant Adjutant- General, Tenth Army Corps.
HDQRS. DETACHMENT EIGHTEENTH ARMY CORPS,
Harbor of Beaufort, S. C., February 10, 1863—6 p. m.
Lieut. Col. CHARLES G. HALPINE,
Assistant Adjutant- General, Tenth Army Corps:
COLONEL: In reply to your request, received some fifteen minutes
since, I would respectfully inclose the roster of the colonels of my divis
ion and of others so far as they are known to me; at the same time, in
CHAP. XXVI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. UNION. 397
tho absence of any order from the War Department transferring tlio
troops of tbe department of General Foster to that of Gener;il Hunter,
or of any order of General Hunter assuming the command thereof, I
would respectfully protest against the request of General Hunter, it
being in direct violation of the written and verbal orders of General
Foster to me, which I am preparing to transmit to you.
Very respectfully, &c.,
HENKY M. NAGLEE,
Brigadier- General, Commanding.
GENERAL ORDERS, \ HDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF THE SOUTH,
No. 13. } Hilton Head, Port Royal, S. C., February 11, 1803.
The undersigned hereby assumes command of the re-enforcements
recently arrived in this department from North Carolina — such troops,
on their arrival here, having become a portion of the Tenth Army
Corps.
Brig. Gens. Henry M. Nagleeand Orris S. Ferry, commanding divis
ions, will cause the various staff officers of their commands to report
and make due returns and reports to these headquarters. They will
also cause the chief quartermasters of their divisions to turn over all
marine transportation brought down with them to Lieut. Col. J. J. El-
well, chief quartermaster of this department.
The divisions commanded by Brig. Gens. Henry M. Naglee and Orris
S. Ferry will remain intact as at present organized — General Naglee,
as senior officer, assuming command of all the United States forces
on Saint Helena Island, with the exception of those stationed at Bay
Point, who will continue to report to post headquarters, Hilton Head
Island, until further orders.
D. HUNTEE,
Major- Genera I, Commanding.
FEBRUARY 11, 18G3.
Major-General FOSTER, Eighteenth Corps :
MY DEAR GENERAL: The dispatches I send* will explain them
selves, and advise you of the changes here since your departure. I
have done all in my power to place you and myself properly on the
record. You will learn from Darr all not referred to within.
You must get the order of the Secretary of War or your position
and those connected with you will be most disagreeable and unsatis
factory.
We will wait with the greatest impatience to hear from you.
Yours, faithfully and sincerely,
NAGLEE.
HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE SOUTH,
Hilton Head, Port Royal, S. C., February 11, 1863.
Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLECK,
General-in-Chief U. S. Army, Washington, D. C. :
GENERAL: Since sending my communication of this day's date, cover
ing certified copies of correspondence and orders in reference to the re-
* Copies of inclosures to Hunter to Halleck, February 11, 1863, p. 396.
398 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVL
enforcements ordered to this department from North Carolina, I have
received from General Henry M. Naglee a further communication, certi
fied copy of which is inclosed herewith.
On this further communication it can only be necessary to remark
that as General Foster reported to me verbally on his arrival, and as
it never entered my mind that he could put upon his position (which I
regarded as that of a guest), in my department, the interpretation now
manifest in his orders to General Naglee, I never thought while he
was here of raising any question with him as to the status of the troops
sent by Government to re-enforce my command. As the troops had
been sent for service in my department, I no more thought of formally
assuming command of them than of assuming command of a detachment
or regiment arriving at these headquarters from any of the outlying
posts. Moreover, my ranking General Foster would have precluded
any suspicion that such a claim as is now made could have been con
ceived, while the peculiar circumstances under which General Foster
was here, on my invitation, caused me to be perhaps overscrupulous
in taking any steps that might be construed into a too-hasty assumption
of my rightful authority.
General Foster reported verbally the strength of his command imme
diately on arriving, and day after day I was expecting that he would, of
his own motion, cause the staff officers of Generals Naglee's and Ferry's
divisions to send in the proper reports. At length, upon the 9th, my
assistant adjutant-general reporting that he could not make up his de
partment returns (prescribed by general orders of the War Department
to be made upon the 10th, 20th, and last days of each month), for the
reason that Generals Naglee and Ferry had not reported the strength
of their commands, I ordered him to make application to General
Naglee, as the senior officer of the re-enforcements, it having been re
ported to me that General Foster had already left here on a reconnais
sance to Charleston. I have entered into these particulars only to remove
the misconception under which General Naglee evidently labors, and
which is shown in his letter, to the effect that I had deliberate^ abstained
from raising the question of command while General Foster was here.
I have the honor to be, general, very respectfully, your most obedienj;
servant,
D. HUNTER,
Major- General, Commanding.
[Inclosure.]
HDQRS. DETACHMENT EIGHTEENTH ARMY CORPS,
Harbor of Port Royal, February 11, 1863.
Lieutenant Colonel HALPINE,
Assistant Adjutant- General, Tenth Army Corps:
COLONEL : I would respectfully submit the following statement :
General Foster, prior to his departure, ordered that "during his tem
porary absence his detachment should be kept distinct" and detached
from those of the Tenth Army Corps, and stated that he had come to
South Carolina for an especial purpose, and that as soon as that was
accomplished, if not before, it would return to his department; that his
absence, caused by the necessary delay of the Navy, would be short, and
that it was expressly understood between "General Hunter and himself
that the immediate command of the force to operate in the present ex
pedition was to be in his hands, in accordance with the wish of the Sec
retary of War, Mr. Stanton."
CHAP. XXVI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. UNION. 399
You are probably aware that the expedition was intended to go to
Wilmington, in General Foster's department, and that after it was pre
pared to move the monitor sank, and it was fouod the other iron-clad
vessels could not cross the bar, and that the Government, in order not
to lose the preparations made, ordered General Foster to co-operate in
the contemplated attack upon Charleston. This purpose was unknown
to any of the command until after the sailing of the vessels; on the con
trary, they believed Wilmington to be the object of the movement, and
were assured that they would return to North Carolina.
General Foster arrived at Hilton Head on the 2d of February at
9 a. m., and remained until the 10th at 8 a. m., during which time Gen
eral Hunter did not, so far as I am able to learn, exercise any command
over General Foster or any of his troops.
Three hours after the departure of General Foster an aide-de-camp of
General Hunter delivered communications, of which copies are hereunto
attached, marked Kos. 1 and 2,* both dated before the departure of Gen
eral Foster, but addressed to me, the one requesting a return of the forces
of General Foster's command as necessary to make up the Tenth Army
Corps' return, which request had also been made of General Ferry.
At 1 p. m. I received your note indicating General Hunter's intention
to review the troops of General Foster at 12 m. on the llth, and at the
same time there was delivered to me the series of orders from the head
quarters of the Department of the South. At 3 p. m. General Potter,
chief of General Foster's staff, and myself called upon General Hunter
and explained the unfortunate position in which we were placed by
the discovery that a full understanding did not exist between Gen
erals Hunter and Foster, as supposed by the latter at the time of his
departure.
At 5.45 p. m. an aide delivered your request that I should name a
colonel of my command to be detached by General Hunter on a mili
tary commission, and was instructed to await the answer.
At 7.40 p. in. a request was received that I should furnish copies of
certain orders of General Foster, and at the same time there were handed
a copy and original communication of General Saxton, with a request
that certain criminals should be punished.
I cannot but express a regret that some one of these requests had
not been made of General Foster, or some other means adopted during
the eight days of General Foster's stay by which the subject matter at
issue might have been determined, and thus have saved me the un
pleasant duty of upholding in his temporary absence the position as
sumed by General Foster and expected by the officers and soldiers of
the Eighteenth Army Corps, who may find themselves transferred to
another department in direct opposition to the representations made to
them by their favorite commander, that this absence from their old com
rades in arms would be but a temporary one.
I inclose herewith the orders, returns, and other information requested
by you. An unqualified compliance with your several requests would
soon be considered a direct acknowledgment that I considered the
command of General Foster merged in that of General Hunter, which
I respectfully decline to do. But, the contrary, in order to sustain the
position in which I am placed, disclaiming any disrespect to Major-Gen-
eral Hunter, my duty compels me to protest that the course indicated
by General Hunter will cause a directfailure on my part to carry out the
orders of my immediate superior officer, indicated by him, and of those
* Not found, but see Halpine to Naglee, p. 396.
400 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CIIAI-. XXVI.
confidentially made to me and intended to be used only under contin
gencies which have not as yet transpired.
I protest that we came here with the full assurance of General Fos
ter that he was sent by the Secretary of War and General Halleck to
command the troops brought by him, and that the same assurance has
been repeated by him since his conferences with General Hunter, and
that during his stay I have been informed that no communication has
been made to him to show the intention of General Hunter to assume
command.
I protest for the reason that in going away to procure material of a
character which would render the operations intended more complete
and certain General Foster left his chief of staff, his chief of artillery,
his medical director, his quartermaster, his ordnance officer, engineer,
and several of his aides-de-camp, all of the Eighteenth Army Corps, of
the Department of North Carolina, which, it would seem, cannot well be
merged in another department.
I protest that no mere act of mine in responding to the various re
quests of General Hunter shall be hereafter used as evidence of a sur
render of my command to General Hunter in the absence of a direct
order from General Hunter assuming command.
I would again respectfully request that General Hunter will relieve
me of further responsibility and embarrassments by formally and clearly
announcing his intention to assume the command of the troops brought
to South Carolina by General Foster.
I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
HENRY M. NAGLEE,
Brigadier- General, Commanding.
Since writing the above General Hunter's Orders, No. 13, assuming
command ot1 the re-enforcements recently arrived from North Carolina,
has been received. Yielding all obedience to this order, I yet consider
it my duty respectfully to file the above protest, that the same may be
of record.
HENRY M. NAGLEE,
Brigadier -General, Commanding.
FORT MONROE, VA., February 13, 1863—8 p. in.
Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLECK, General-in-Chief:
I have just arrived from the South to obtain more heavy guns and
ammunition. I have reconnoitered the whole coast from Charleston
to the Ogeechee, and can give full information of the state of affairs,
both naval and military. While the ordnance is being loaded 1 can
come to "Washington to report in person, and with your permission will
do so.
J. G. FOSTER,
Major- General.
WASHINGTON, D. C., February 15, 18G3.
Major-General HUNTER,
Commanding Department of the South :
GENERAL : Maj. Gen. J. G. Foster has just received Brigadier-Gen
eral Naglee's protest to you on the llth instant against the consolidation
CHAP. XXVI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. UNION. 401
of the detachment of the Eighteenth Army Corps in your department
with the Tenth Corps, which protest and accompanying papers has been
submitted to the Secretary of War.
There seems to be a misunderstanding in this matter on both sides.
General Foster and his command, while serving in your department,
was to be subject to your general orders and direction ; but that com
mand was to form no part of the Tenth Army Corps. It was organized
as the Eighteenth Army Corps by the President, and no subordinate
authority could change its organization. You will therefore rescind so
much of your orders as consolidates it with the Tenth Corps. But
while this command remains as a distinct organization, with its own
officers, as assigned by its proper chief, the command itself, so long as
it remains in your department, will be subject to your orders. The
transportation which belongs to the Eighteenth Army Corps will so
continue. It will of course be used for any temporary purposes you
may direct, but will afterward be restored to the North Carolina forces,
to which it properly belongs. In fine, general, these forces are merely
assigned for temporary duty under your orders, and their organization,
both in men and material, will be retained, so that the corps can at
any time be returned entire (except casualties) to its proper department.
General Foster will, as you requested, immediately return to South
Carolina to take the direct charge of the expedition (under your direc
tion), and will remain so long as he may deem it safe to be absent from
his own department.
This letter has been submitted to the Secretary of War and to the
President, and is approved by them.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
H. W. HALLECK,
General-in- Chief.
(Copy to General Foster.)
WASHINGTON, February 16, 1863.
Maj. Gen. D. HUNTER,
Commanding Department of the South :
GENERAL : Your letters of the llth instant with inclosures are just
received. I received yesterday a copy of your order merging the de
tachment of the Eighteenth Corps with the Tenth, and also a copy of
General Naglee's protest. These papers were immediately submitted
to the Secretary of War and the President, and I wrote to you, as
directed by them.
Your letters of the llth are also submitted, and no reason is seen for
changing the instructions then given. Nor is anything perceived in
General Foster's orders that conflict with those instructions or with the
verbal understanding with you in the office of the Secretary of War be-,
fore you left for your present command. If General Foster or any part
of the Eighteenth Army Corps while in your department shall attempt
to act independently of your authority or in violation of proper orders
from you they will be liable to censure and punishment, But it is not
understood that General Foster makes any such claim ; on the con
trary, on being furnished with a copy of my letter to you of yesterday,
he expressed himself entirely satisfied, as he considered himselt and his
corps while in your department subject to your orders,
26 R R— VOL xiv
402 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVI.
Your threatened arrest of General Foster is therefore disapproved,
It is to be regretted, general, that on the eve oT important movements,
when the most cordial co-operation of all the officers of the Government
is imperatively required, anything should be permitted to occur which
is calculated to disturb the harmony of the service. If the plans of the
Government should fail to be carried out for want of this harmony, those
who have engendered or fostered animosities and jealousies will incur
a very serious responsibility.
General Naglee's protest to you being disapproved, the Secretary of
War has directed that he be relieved from duty in your department.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
H. W. HALLECK,
General-in- Chief.
WASHINGTON, February 16, 1863.
Maj. Gen. J. G. FOSTER, Commanding, &c. :
GENERAL : Colonel Townsend, of the Adjutant-General's Depart
ment, will furnish you a copy or show you the original of my letter of
this date to Major-General Hunter. This, with my letter of yesterday
to General Hunter, of which you have a copy, will furnish you with the
views of the Government in regard to the relations between yourself
and General Hunter in regard to your commands in South Carolina.
While youi command will remain as a distinct corps organization, not
to be merged into the Tenth Army Corps, both you and it will be sub
ject to General Hunter's orders so long as you are on duty in his de
partment.
As the course pursued by General Naglee in objecting to furnish his
superior officer with proper returns and the spirit of his protest are
disapproved, the Secretary of War directs that you release him from
further duty in the Department of the South.
Colonel Townsend has instructions from the War Department to re
lieve under certain contingencies other officers.
Harmony of action and a cordial co-operation of all officers in the
contemplated expedition are absolutely essential to its success. Those
who in any way interfere with this harmony will be dealt with as they
deserve.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
H. W. HALLECK,
General-in- Chief.
BALTIMORE, MD., February 16, 1863—10 p. m.
Major-General HALLEOK, General-in-Chief:
I have just received your letter of this date, by the hands of Colonel
Towusend, the train having been delayed by an accident, It is with
regret that I receive your order to relieve General Naglee, because he
only carried out my instructions. General Hunter will probably regard
it as a triumph over the respectful action of General Baglee, and this
will, I fear, lead to interferences and mortifications inflicted on me
when I return. This action after I left, in direct violation of our verbal
understanding, leaves me little to expect from his magnanimity. I
would respectfully suggest that some other officer of experience, as.
General Burnside, be sent down instead of me, since he will go free
•oni all misunderstanding, and thus be able to render greater service.
CHAP, xxvi.] CORRESPONDENCE; ETC. — UNION. 40S
I therefore respectfully request to be allowed to return to my command
in North Carolina and to make all the diversion possible with my re
maining forces. I propose to send General Palmer or General Prince
to relieve General Naglee, as you direct. I will await your answer at
Port Monroe.
J. G. FOSTER,
Major- General.
BALTIMORE, MD., February 16, 1863 — 10.30 p. m.
Hon. E. M. STANTON:
General Foster is very unwilling to go back to Hilton Head since
receipt of General Halleck's last letter delivered by me. He does not
wish to relieve Naglee, and he fears he will lose his command of Depart
ment of North Carolina, thinking from something said by General
Halleck that Burnside will be sent to North Carolina. The train was
delayed an hour by an accident and I have not had much time to talk
with" him. He telegraphs you, and we go down to Old Point imme
diately. I have shown him the last letter to General Hunter, leaving
out about arrest.
E. D. TOWNSEND,
Assistant Adjutant- General.
WASHINGTON, D. 0.,
February 16, 1863.
Col. E. D. TOWNSEND:
On reaching Fort Monroe you had better proceed at once on one of
the boats, leaving General Foster to follow in the other boat with the
ordnance and ammunition. You will thus precede him by some hours.
EDWIN M. STANTON.
WAR DEPARTMENT,
Washington, February 17, 1863.
Major-General FOSTER, Fort Monroe, Va. :
Your dispatch from Baltimore is received. It is optional with you
to return to South Carolina or not, and, if you go, to remain or not.
It was determined when General Burnside was relieved from the Army
of the Potomac that he should resume command in North Carolina,
either immediately or on the expiration of his leave.
H. W. HALLECK,
Gencral-in- Chief.
FORT MONROE, VA.,
February 17, 1863—6.30 p. in.
Hon. E. M. STANTON,
Secretary of War :
We arrived here at 5 p. m. Your dispatch of yesterday is received.
General Foster, on General Halleck's dispatch of this date, decides not
to go back to South Carolina, but await further orders. Will not this
404 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVI.
decision require modification of the letters to General Hunter of 15th
and IGth*
Very respectfully,
E. D. TOWNSEND,
Assistant Adjutant- General.
HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE SOUTH,
Hilton Head, Port Royal, S. C., February 17, 1863.
Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLECK,
General-in-Chief U. S. Army, Washington, D. C.:
GENERAL : I have the honor to transmit herewith certified copies of
a formal protest received from Brigadier-General Naglee against my
assumption of command over the re-enforcements ordered by Govern
ment to this department,* together with my reply thereto. This cor
respondence so fully sets forth the issues raised and the manner in
which they have been met as to require no further explanation.
It cannot be necessary to call your attention to the extraordinary
character of the position assumed by General Foster or to the impossi
bility of conducting any military movements successfully with two gen
erals in separate and in independent commands over the active columns.
Apart from this difficulty I am happy to state that my official rela
tions with Brigadier-General Naglee have been thus far very satisfac
tory, although certain of the staff' officers left behind by Major General
Foster on his going North have attempted to interpose technical objec
tions and misconstructions in the execution of my necessary orders.
I find, with the exception of General Naglee's division, that the re-
enforcements received from North Carolina are in a greatly demoralized
and undisciplined condition, and are far inferior on the average to the
original troops of this department, who during the long and for the
most part peaceful period of their service here have attained very higli
excellence in all soldierly qualities of drill and discipline. It is there
fore my intention to place the least desirable regiments of the re-enforce
ments in the garrisons and forts of the department, taking with me to
the attack on Charleston only my best and most reliable troops.
All the ordnance, ordnance stores, &c., for the expedition will be on
board the transports this evening, ready to sail at an hour's notice for
Stono Inlet, which will be the immediate base of operations, being in
the vicinity of Charleston and affording a secure and commodious
anchorage.
All our preparations are now complete, and in fact could have been
completed on twenty-four hours' notice at any time within the last four
teen days. We only await the readiness of the Navy, and with the
additional iron-clads which have been ordered to report to Admiral S.
F. DuPont there can be no doubt but that a glorious success will await
our efforts.
I further inclose copy of General Naglee's reply to my letter and of
General Foster's confidential instructions to General Naglee.
I have the honor to be, general, very respectfully, your most obedient
servant,
D. HUNTER,
________ _________ Major -General, Commanding.
* See Naglee to Halpine, February 11, p. 398.
CHAP. XXVI.J CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. — UNION. 405
[Inclosure No. 2.]
HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE SOUTH,
Hilton Head, Port Royal, 8. €., February 12, 1863.
Brig. Gen. H. M. NAGLEE,
Comdg. U. S. Forces, Land's End, St. Helena Island, 8. C. :
GENERAL : I have to acknowledge the receipt of your communication
of yesterday, in which you protest against allowing the forces under
your command to be considered a portion of this department and army
corps, and in which you further speak of possessing confidential or
ders, only to be used in a certain contingency, which contingency (you
say) has not yet arisen; your letter further announcing that the troops
recently sent under orders of the Government to re-enforce this depart-
ent had been promised (you do not specify particularly by whom) a
speedy return to North Carolina, and that they are specially anxious to
serve under a favorite general.
It is high time that the imputation against American troops that they
are only willing to serve under particular generals of their own choice
and not those assigned to their command by Government should be
set at rest. In two prominent instances it was clamorously raised, with
threats of a general mutiny, &c., by a few interested parties ; but on
the matters being put to the test of experiment the prompt, unques
tioning, and hearty fidelity of the troops showed how little foundation
there bad been for the charges prejudicial to their loyalty. I am far
from wishing to suggest that in the manner of your protest on this point
there has been any spirit of insubordination manifested; but as the mere
statement of the point was utterly irrelevant to the discussion of a tech
nical question of army laws, usages, and discipline I have given it this
notice. Considering it highly improper and destructive of all military
discipline that subordinate officers should be furnished with confidential
or secret instructions by intermediate commanders, such instructions
being withheld from the general commanding in chief, and only to be
used by the subordinate general in the event of secret contingencies, I
hereby call upon and order you to furnish to these headquarters a cer
tified copy or report of all the secret instructions, verbal or written, re
ceived by you from Major-General Foster or from any other person and
dwelt upon in your protest.
Knowing that General Foster had not originally been ordered to ac
company the re-enforcements brought down by you, but had come here
on my invitation, as an officer well acquainted with Charleston Harbor,
and therefore likely to be of much service by his suggestions and by the
interest he would feel in the operations, I confess I regarded him rather
as a guest than as a subordinate, and from a spirit of courtesy forbore
as much as possible from giving any orders that would look like a too-
hasty assumption of command. I regret exceedingly that this courtesy
should have been so strangely and wholly misconstrued as to be consid
ered a license for insubordination. All my " requests," on which you lay
so much stress, were regarded by me as orders to be promptly obeyed,
the word " request" being frequently substituted by army usage for
" order" in the case of superior officers. Thus when I requested you
to land your troops, the first day of your arrival, on Saint Helena Island,
it was by me regarded as an order, and should most certainly have been
adhered to and enforced had you then given me the least reason to in
fer that you doubted my competency to issue orders to your command.
As you did not raise the question, however, but represented merely that
General Foster was following you and might be expected at any moment,
406 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXYL
I waived the request or order for the time being, and consented that
the troops should remain on board the transports until further advised,
As to the further point made by you that the " request" to be furnished
with a return of your command was not received by you until three
hours after General Foster's departure for the North, the context evi
dently implying the assumption that the question of command was pur
posely held in abeyance by me during General Foster's presence here,
there are three abundant answers, each sufficient to do away with your
objection :
1st. That no possibility of any such controversy ever entered my
mind, and that I was daily in expectation of receiving without order the
reports and returns prescribed by Army Eegulations, and that with
my then view of General Foster's position as an honored visitor of this
department and Army Corps I much preferred, if possible, that the
returns should be made and the acknowledgment of the transfer of
command be given of his own motion.
2d. That I did not know that General Foster was going to leave the
department, it being reported to me that he was about to visit Stono
Inlet on a reconnaissance, from which he might be expected back in a
couple of days. The request or order, moreover, was written on the
9th, and was only not delivered to you on that afternoon or evening by
Captain Thompson, one of my aides, because he could not find you in
your division encampment, you not havingleft your headquarters aboard
the transport.
3d. And lastly, you did not receive this request or order until the 9th;
hist, partly for the reasons stated in the first part of these answering
paragraphs and also because my department return called for by gen
eral orders of the War Department was not required to be made up
until the 10th. Finding on the 9th that your report was necessary and!
was not forthcoming, I then directed Colonel Halpine, my assistant
adjutant-general, to address you on the subject, telling him to state in
connection with my request or order the cause which made it necessary.
As to your not receiving any other documents of a nature to suggest
that I regarded myself as in command until the 10th instant no expla
nation can be seriously asked. For three of the eight days referred to
I was at Fort Pulaski, and having no orders or correspondence of any
pressing moment to send you I was unwilling thatyou should be troubled
until your command had been disembarked and put in order.
In conclusion, general, let me add that the tone of your letter is so
far removed from the tenor of your conversation upon these points that
I cannot but regard it as suggested to you by extraneous influences.
You have received a regular military education, and I believe you to be
so good a soldier that you cannot but agree with me in the views ex
pressed in this letter.
I shall expect in the operations about to be taken in this department
your hearty and best co-operation, and have the honor to be, very re
spectfully, your obedient servant,
D. HUNTER,
Major- General.
fin closure No. 3.]
HDQRS. DETACHMENT EIGHTEENTH CORPS,
Saint Helena Island, February 13, 1863.
Lieut. Col. CHARLES G. HALPINE, A. A. (?., Tenth Army Corps:
COLONEL: I would respectfully acknowledge the receipt of the com
munication of General Hunter of the 12th instant.
CHAP. XXVI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. — UNION. 407
I regret very much that General Hunter indicates an impropriety of
expression not warranted by my communication. I did not assert " that
the troops were specially anxious to serve under a favorite general,"
but that they had been promised, from representations made to them
by their favorite commander, that the absence from their old comrades
in arms would be but a temporary one.
I am surprised that General Hunter should consider it a great im
propriety in American troops that they should have favor and affection
for a brave and gallant officer with whom they have long served, and
am yet to learn that it is any indication of insubordination or that they
would fight the less for their country when led by one that was their
favorite and in whom they had great confidence j on the contrary, as
you admit in instances referred to by you, it was fully demonstrated
that it did not indicate any insubordination. The just discrimination
and intelligence of the American citizen has always been admitted,
and I cannot admit that they lose this character in becoming " Ameri
can troops."
There is no difference between General Hunter and myself in regard
to the form of an order or to his authority to assume the command,
but in the manner in which he made known his intentions to assume
the command of General Foster's forces, and, with due respect, I still
believe that the requests or orders referred to should have been preceded
by a notification to the whole command of over 10,000 persons that a
change of so important a character had been determined upon.
I regret that General Hunter had not suspended his opinion in regard
to certain confidential, not "secret," instructions until he sjiould have
an opportunity to read them, at all events. The impropriety of conduct
charged against General Foster in this regard is a subject for which he
alone is responsible. In reviewing the whole subject I can find no just
grounds for the intimation of insubordination made by General Hunter,
and feel that my position in the absence of General Foster required a
respectful and formal protest.
In order that there shall be no misapprehension I would here insert
that Generals Hunter and Foster went together to Pulaski; that Gen
eral Foster made a reconnaissance to Stono; that we returned and were
at General Hunter's headquarters during his absence on the afternoon
of the 9th, and that General Foster left between 8 and 11 a. m. of the
10th of February, stating in written orders and in the communication
hereto attached that he should return in a short time.
On the 10th General Hunter assumed command of the forces brought
by General Foster to South Carolina, and ordered that his marine trans
portation should be turned over to his (General Hunter's) department,
I might answer many if not all the points raised by General Hunter,
but I am reminded that in a controversy between a superior and his
junior officer the advantages are all on one side; besides, such a contro
versy could lead to no better understanding between us. Our country
requires our best, most harmonious, united efforts, and in the common
cause to sink all personal considerations.
Very respectfully, &c.,
HENRY M. NAGLEE,
Brigadier- General.
[Sub-inclosnre.]
HILTON HEAD, S. C., February 9, 1863.
General NAGLEE, Present:
GENERAL: In the orders I gave you on the 7th instant (expecting to
408 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVI.
sail on the following day) I mentioned the circumstance of keeping the
command distinct. This is important, because it may be necessary in
the emergency of an attack on New Berne, N. C., to recall the whole
force to North Carolina at the shortest notice.
I now write this note to inform you in confidence that it is understood
by General Hunter and myself that the immediate command of the
whole force to operate in the present expedition is to be in my hands.
This is also the wish of the Secretary of War, Mr. Stanton.
Of course in my absence, after the opening of the operations, you
will be second in command only to myself of the operating force.
In haste, very respectfully and truly,
J. G. FOSTER,
Major- General, Commanding.
P. S. — If the Navy happens to be ready to move before I return you
will have all the necessary preparations made and the troops of the
corps embarked j and if the Navy moves, move your command in con
junction with them and operate as agreed upon verbally.
Yours, &c.,
J. G. FOSTER.
FORT MONROE, February 18, 1863.
General H. W. HALLECK,
Commander -in- Chief, U. S. Army, Washington, D. C.:
GENERAL: I have received your dispatch. Under the circumstances
I think it will be for the best for me not to return to South Carolina.
I shall therefore, agreeably to your permission, return to New Berne
at once.
J. G. FOSTER,
Major- General, Volunteers.
WAR DEPARTMENT,
Washington, February 18, 1863.
Major-General FOSTER, Fort Monroe, Va. :
As you decide not to return to South Carolina, General Hunter has
been authorized to retain General Naglee in command of the detach
ment of your corps or to relieve him, as he deems proper. In all other
respects the instructions remain as before.
H. W. HALLECK,
General-in- Chief.
WASHINGTON, February 18, 1863.
Colonel TOWNSEND, Fort Monroe:
It is the wish of the Secretary that you proceed to Hilton Head and
ascertain the condition of affairs so as to be able to report to him on
your return.
H. W. HALLECK,
General-in- Chief.
CHAP. XXVI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. UNION. 409
HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE SOUTH,
Hilton Head, Port Royal, 8. C., February 19, 1863.
Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLECK,
General-in- Chief U. 8. Army, Washington, D. C. :
GENERAL: I have the honor to transmit herewith certified copy of
an order directing the members of General Foster's staff to quit this
department by the first steamer going North. I have been reluctantly
compelled to adopt this decisive measure by the unbridled license of
the statements made by various members of General Foster's staff;
by repeated acts of insubordination on their part, and by their persist
ently deliberate and systematic adoption of a course directly tending to
create a general disaffection, if not an organized mutiny, amongst the
re-enforcements brought from North Carolina to this department by
order of the Government.
I found that General Potter, chief of General Foster's staff, and Cap
tain Slaght, his chief quartermaster, had surreptitiously sent out of
this department, with private dispatches to General Foster, the steamer
Cahawba, one of the finest and largest vessels of the transportation
fleet, and this after my order assuming command and directing that all
the marine transportation brought down with the troops from North
Carolina be turned over to my chief quartermaster. For this offense
and for refusing to turn over such transportation as directed I have
placed Captain Slaght in arrest.
The same spirit of insubordination was manifested by General Foster's
chief medical officer, chief commissary, and other heads of staff depart
ments, every conceivable obstacle being thrown in the way of the exe
cution of my necessary orders, and everything done that could be done
to breed disaffection amongst the re-enforcements. Under these cir
cumstances I have no alternative but either to resign the command
into the hands of these mutineers or to vindicate my authority by get
ting rid of their pretensions.
I am happy to be able to add that the spirit and course of conduct
herein described were confined strictly to the personal attache's of Gen
eral Foster, Generals Naglee and Ferry having taken no part therein
(further than General Naglee's formal protest); and that the troops
brought down from North Carolina, most of them fresh from Yorktown,
and never really incorporated in the Eighteenth Army Corps, appear
in good spirits, and well satisfied with the prospect of soon being called
upon to take part in the operations of the department, which are now
only delayed for the arrival of the additional iron-clad monitors daily
expected by the admiral.
I have the honor to be, general, with high esteem, your very obedient
servant.
D. HUNTER,
Major- General, Commanding.
[Inclosure.]
SPECIAL ORDERS, ) HDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF THE SOUTH,
No. 97. J Hilton Head, Port Eoyal, 8. C., February 19, 18G3.
Two members of General Foster's staff, now sojourning within the
limits of this department, having been engaged in sending North a
steamer belonging to this command and necessary for the operations
about to commence, such steamer being sent away clandestinely and
without the knowledge, consent, or order of the major-general com
manding, and it being found that many, if not all, the members of Gen-
410 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND Mlt>. ANl> EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXvt
eral Foster's staff have indulged in statements and remarks of a char-,
acter tending to create disaffection, insubordination, and mutiny, it is
hereby ordered that all the members of the staff of Maj. Gen. John G.
Foster, commanding the Department of North Carolina, now within the
limits of the Department of the South, shall quit this department by
the first steamer going North.
By command of Major-General Hunter :
CHAS. G. HALPINE,
Assistant Adjutant- General, Tenth Army Corps*
HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE SOUTH,
Hilton Head, Port Royal, S. G., February 24, 1863.
Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLECK,
General-in-Chief U. 8. Army, Washington, D. G.:
GENERAL: Your attention is respectfully but urgently called to the
comparatively defenseless condition, both as regards armament and
garrison, of the permanent works at Key West and the Tortugas. It
is unnecessary to do more than refer to the facts. Of the importance
of these works no question can be raised ; and it is in view of existing
complications of foreign policy, by which a firm possession of these
works is made doubly necessary, that these representations are made,
for it must be borne in mind that large foreign naval and military forces
are nigher these points now than any re-enforcements that can be thrown
into them.
The garrison at Key West is about 900 men ; that of Tortugas about
200; and even these can ill be spared from this department, in view of
operations actually requiring more men than are now at command.
Sufficient re-enforcements to increase these garrisons to their proper
standard, viz, that of Key West to 1,200 and that of Tortugas to 1,000
men, should be sent at once. It is suggested that regiments be raised
for this especial duty of men, if possible, to some extent acclimated, and
under officers of some artillery experience. Eegiments of blacks might
find proper service here ; and the command of these two works should
be given to an old artillery officer with the necessary rank, and there
:are numbers of such in the service who are perhaps incapable of field
•duty elsewhere.
The armament of Fort Taylor, Key West, is now six 10-inch and
forty-one 8-inch columbiads, two 100-pounders, six 84-pounders, and
nine 30-pounders, rifled ; total, 64 guns.
That of Fort Jefferson, Tortugas, is six 10-inch, thirty 8-inch, and
nine 42-pounder guns, and six 84-pounders, rifled ; total, 51 guns.
Both, I submit, should be armed to their utmost capacity with a large
proportion of guns of the heaviest caliber known. Either of these works,
as at present armed, it is believed, could be carried by a coup de main,
and the enemy once in possession it would require great efforts and
sacrifices to regain these indispensable positions.
I have respectfully but most earnestly to invite your early attention
to this matter, particularly with respect to a prompt supply of guns of
the heaviest calibers.
With the highest esteem, general, your most obedient servant,
D. HUNTER,
Major- General, Commanding.
CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. UNION. 41 1
HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE SOUTH.
Hilton Head, Port Royal, S. C., February 24, 1863.
Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLECK,
General-in- Chief U. S. Army, Washington, D. G. :
GENERAL: I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your let
ters of the 15th and 16th instant, and must confess that I was much
surprised at their contents. But I reserve any remarks I have to make
on them for a more convenient occasion. I must disclaim, however, any
intention of interfering with the President's organization of the Eight
eenth Army Corps. Such a thing never entered my mind. Nearly a
year since, long before General Foster's army corps was even thought
of, I was promised such re-enforcements as would enable me to act
efficiently in this department. When these long-delayed re-enforcements
at length arrived, therefore, I could not for a moment imagine that they
were not to constitute a part of the Tenth Army Corps, agreeably to the
inclosed order, which, you see, directs that all troops serving in the De
partment of the South should constitute the Tenth Army Corps.* The
mere fact that these re- enforcements passed through General Foster's
command, tarrying but a very few days, cannot without any special
assignment of the President constitute them a part of the Eighteenth
Army Corps any more than their being in this department makes them
a part of the Tenth Army Corps. I confess I should as soon have
thought of calling these re-enforcements detachments from the various
army corps from which they came in Virginia as to term them a de
tachment of the Eighteenth Army Corps. This, however, is a matter
of no consequence, as I certainly never expect them to return to North
Carolina, as their services will be indispensable here, and, in addition, I
must most earnestly beg you to send at once to this department 20,000'
additional troops, to be used in co-operation with the Navy against
Savannah. We confidently expect to have Charleston in ten or twelve
days, and the country cannot afford to lose the services of the iron- clad s
for a single hour. I inclose herewith a certified copy of General Fos
ter's secret instructions to General Naglee, from the postscript to which
you will perceive that he orders General Naglee to embark his command,
move in conjunction with the Navy, aand operate as agreed upon ver
bally," without any reference whatever to me.t Could there be anything
more disrespectful or insubordinate, and where can you find a soldier
who would not have arrested General Foster under like circumstances?
Your remarks with regard to u those who have fostered animosities
and jealousies" I do not take to myself. I hope they were not intended
for another quarter. You should 'know that I am not troubled in this,
way. When I had but a handful of men in Kansas I gave you what
little assistance was in my power to secure your victory at Fort Don-
elson, and at the same time sent, on my own responsibility, Slough's
regiment of Colorado Volunteers to Colonel Canby, which saved New
Mexico at the Canon Glorieta.
The last time I had the pleasure of seeing you at your own house I
believed General Foster to be a good soldier, and it struck me that his
local knowledge might be of great service in the operations against
Charleston. Sincerely wishing that no expectation on my part to
command in this department should interfere with the public weal, I
then candidly asked you to send Foster to command in this department
and to give me another command elsewhere. Your reply was, "Foster
* See General Orders, No. 123, p. 380. t See p. 407.
412 COASTS OF 8. C, GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVL
cannot be spared from North Carolina." Coming here under these cir
cumstances I certainly expected to be treated as a soldier, and not to
have re-enforcements sent here with written orders to act independ
ently. I am fully convinced, general, that you have been deceived in
this case, and that on reviewing it you will send me word that no sol
dier could have done differently.
I have the honor to transmit herewith certified copy of general or
ders of this department revoking the consolidation of the re-enforce
ments from North Carolina with the Tenth Army Corps.
I have the honor to be, general, very respectfully, your most obedient
servant,
D. HUNTER,
Major -General, Commanding.
[Inclosnre.]
GENERAL ORDERS, ) HDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF THE SOUTH,
No. 15. J Hilton Head, Port Royal, 8. C., Feb. 23, 1863.
*******
III. In conformity with instructions received from Headquarters of
the Army, so much of General Orders, No. 13, from these headquarters,
current series, as incorporates the re-enforcements ordered by the Gov
ernment to this department from North Carolina with the Tenth Army
Corps is hereby revoked, and such re-enforcements will hereafter be
regarded and returned as a detachment of the Eighteenth Army Corps,
serving in the Department of the South, and forming a portion of this
command. The division organization of these troops will continue as
at present.
**##***
By command of Mai. Gen. D. Hunter:
CHAS. G. HALPINE,
Assistant Adjutant- General, Tenth Army Corps.
HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE SOUTH,
Hilton Head, Port Royal, 8. C., February 27, 1863.
General H. M. NAGLEE,
Comdg. U. 8. Forces, Saint Helena Island, 8. C. :
GENERAL : I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your com
munication, dated the 25th instant,* in which you recite, from a copy
furnished to you on the 22d instant, the following extract from a letter
written by Major-General Halleck to General Hunter on the 16th in
stant :
General Naglee's protest being disapproved, the Secretary of War has directed that
he be relieved from duty in your (General Hunter's) department.
And in reply to your letter I am instructed by the major-general com
manding to transmit herewith certified copy of a telegram, dated the
18th instant, sent by Major-General Halleck, general-in-chief U. S.
Army, through Col. E. D. Townsend, assistant adjutant-general, U. S.
Army, from which you will perceive that the matter of relieving you or
retaining you in command of the re-enforcements is left to General
Hunter's discretion.
* Not found.
CHAP. XXVI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. UNION. 413
This telegram was undoubtedly based on General Hunter's emphatic
statement, made and repeated to General Halleck in every letter to
which the controversy regarding the status and command of the re-
enforcements from North Carolina has given rise, to the effect that
your conduct in the matter had .been blameless, in General Hunter's
judgment, and that you had only done your duty in bringing before
these headquarters, on General Hunter's assumption of command, in
structions from your former commanding officer, which set up on his
behalf a claim to retain independent command of the re-enforcements
ordered by the Government to General Hunter's department.
Such being the facts of the case, it must be unnecessary to add that
General Hunter uses the discretion given him by Major-General Hal
leck to retain your services in this department ; and that, fully appre
ciating your many excellent qualities as a brave, experienced, and
efficient officer, it is his hope that you will have no cause to regret your
service in this department.
I have the honor to be, general, your most obedient servant,
CHAS. G. HALPINE,
Assistant Adjutant- General, Tenth Army Corps.
SPECIAL ORDERS, ) HDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF THE SOUTH,
No. 116. J Hilton Head, Port Royal, S. C.9 Feb. 28, 1803.
I. The infantry of the detachment of the Eighteenth Army Corps
serving in this department will be divided into two divisions, com
manded by Generals Henry M. Naglee and Orris S. Ferry. Brig. Gen.
Thomas G. Stevenson is assigned to the command of a brigade in one
of these divisions, which brigade will include the two regiments re
cently commanded by him if they have not been otherwise disposed of,
and General Naglee is charged with this assignment.
II. All returns and reports hereafter will be by divisions, and will be
forwarded through Brigadier-General Naglee, as commanding officer on
Saint Helena. The artillery detachments and companies will send their
returns consolidated through the senior officer of the Third New York
Artillery present on duty and Brigadier- General Naglee as a separate
regimental organization, and that regiment will not be attached to any
division.
By command of Major-General Hunter :
CHAS. G. HALPINE,
Assistant Adjutant-General, Tenth Army Corps.
HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE SOUTH,
Hilton Head, Port Royal, S. C., , 1863.
Brig. Gen. H. M. NAGLEE,
Commanding U. S. Forces, Saint Helena, 8. C. :
GENERAL: Your Special Orders, No. 10, having been officially referred
to these headquarters by Surg. C. H. Crane, U. S. Army, medical director,
it is deemed proper to inform you that no corps organization is con
templated with respect to the detachment of the Eighteenth Army
Corps now in this department, and that alter the removal of the de
tachment from Saint Helena Island you will under present orders only
command your division, except in so far as military operations may
414 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVI.
cause present instructions to be modified by orders from these head
quarters.
For these reasons the organization of the staff for such separate corps
organization is unnecessary and will be revoked, and the organization
of the troops on Saint Helena Island will be as prescribed in Special
Orders, No. 116, from these headquarters (current series).
By command of Major-General Hunter :
CHAS. G. HALPINE,
Assistant Adjutant- General, Tenth Army Corps.
(Communication without date received with Special Orders, No. 116.)
HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE SOUTH,
Hilton Head, Port Royal, S. C., February 28, 1863.
Brig. Gen. ORRIS S. FERRY,
Commanding Division, Saint Helena :
GENERAL : The division under your command will during the army
operations upon Charleston be kept for some time afloat and in reserve —
this pending some preliminary labor that will probably be accomplished
by other troops.
It is probable that the subsistence and ammunition designated in
previous instructions will suffice for the time that your command may
be on transports, as above indicated.
Eespectfully, general, your obedient servant,
T. SEYMOUB,
brigadier- General, Chief of Staff*
HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE SOUTH,
Hilton Head, Port Royal, S. C., February 28, 1863.
Brig. Gen. H. M. NAGLEE,
Commanding Division, Saint Helena Island :
GENERAL : So far as the nature of expected operations in Charleston
Harbor can be foreseen on the part of land forces, you will be directed
to conduct those against the north extremity of Sullivan's Island. A
division— that under your immediate command — will probably be ample
for this purpose. It will be landed on Long Island, on the southern
extremities of which numerous rifled guns will be put under cover as
rapidly as possible ; light mortars, Coehorns, &c., will be made use of
should the nature of the ground admit; and under this fire, with the
aid of that from naval vessels, it is expected that whatever works or
batteries may exist on the point referred to will be overcome ; if so, a
crossing will be made, all of the heavier rifles will be passed over to Sul
livan's Island (with whatever additional artillery may prove necessary),
and all resisting forces driven upon Fort Moultrie, which will then be
attacked in conjunction with tbe Navy.
Under any circumstances (should any co-operation on the part of land
forces be desirable) the landing on Long Island and the establishment
of works against the battery at Breach Inlet will probably be an essen
tial part of that co-operation.
The artillery at your disposal, consisting of that recently arrived from
Forth Carolina, is as follows ; Ten 30-pounder Parrotts, four 20 -pounder
CHAP. XXVI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. UNION. 415
Parrotts, four 12-pounder Wiards, six 3-inch ordnance, rifled, four 8 and
four 10 inch mortars, and additional mortars and Coehorns will probably
be furnished from another source should it be found necessary.
The heavy Parrotts (100-pounders) may possibly be required against
Fort Moultrie, and should be landed after the Breach Inlet battery falls
if the weather should permit.
It is believed that the arrangements that -were originally made with
respect to the service of these guns need not be disturbed; that the
same details for service and the same transportation already designated
are proper, and not to be disarranged without good reasons- on your
part. And these instructions are given in order that any intermediate
measures that may occur to your mind may be suggested amd acted
upon.
Very respectfully, general, your most obedient servant,
T. SEYMOUR,
Brigadier- General and Chief of Staff.
HDQRS. DETACHMENT EIGHTEENTH CORPS,
Saint Helena Island, S. C., March 1, 1863.
Lieut. Col. CHARLES G. HALPINE, A. A. #., Tenth Army Corps:
COLONEL: I would respectfully acknowledge the receipt of Special
Orders, No. 116, and your communication without date which accom
panied it.
It is with profound regret that I find a determination to open the
unfortunate difficulties that I had sincerely hoped were settled by
the Secretary of War. A contrary course diverts the necessary atten
tion of all from the important preparations absolutely necessary for our
success, and may cause delay, which at this season of the year may
be most fatal.
I had hoped that "with its own officers, as assigned by its proper
chief," the organization of the command from North Carolina would not
have been disturbed, and that whilst cheerfully responding to the*
u general orders and directions" of General Hunter the management
of my command in all other regards would have been left as indicated
by General Foster, General Hunter holding me only responsible for the;
full and faithful performance of every duty.
To assist in the complicated and hazardous undertaking against
Charleston, the most important of the war, General Foster brought am
efficient staff, who had prepared all the material necessary with the;
greatest possible care, and who would gladly have assisted in its ex
penditure ; but by Special Orders, No. 97, this entire organization was.
broken up, and the gentlemen have all returned to North Carolina. In
my attempt to provide for their absence and to appoint the necessary
officers to carry out the purposes for which the troops were brought into-
this department, I am met with your especial instructions, which re
quire me to revoke an order appointing a surgeon to act in the absence
of the medical director brought here by General Foster, and advised
uthat no corps organization is contemplated with respect to the detach
ment of the Eighteenth Army Corps now in this department," in which
we entirely agree; at the same time you certainly will admit that I can
not conduct the business of the detachment which I command of 12,000
men (the organization of which, made by the President, General Halleck
directs cannot be " changed'*) without proper staff assistance, and this
js tlae object for which this and other similar appointments were made.
416 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVI.
In regard to your directions expressed in Special Orders, No. 11 G, and
to your instructions, without date, received at the same time, botli de
priving me of the command left by General Foster and limiting it here
after to that of one division, again referring to the directions of General
Halleck, I will add nothing more than simply to assure you that no
trial to which I may now be subjected will drive me from the purpose
of serving my country, for which I have come a long distance with
great personal inconvenience and sacrifice.
Considering it my duty, as required by the order of General Foster,
who left me in charge of all that he brought from North Carolina, I
hereby respectfully refer you to the directions of General Halleck to
General Hunter, indicated in the letters of the 15th and 16th ultimo,
which required that the distinct " organization, both in men and ma
terial, will be retained, so that the corps can at any time be returned
entire to its proper department," and that "General Hunter will rescind
so much of his orders as consolidates it with the Tenth Corps," and I
would respectfully request that you would advise me of the intentions
of General Hunter in regard to the above instructions, so far as they
refer to the material, that I may report to General Foster in the prem
ises. As now situated I am compelled to report to him that, by the
orders within referred to, the organization of the detachment of the
Eighteenth Army Corps is destroyed.
The quartermaster of General Hunter's department still holds all the
transportation of the Eighteenth Corps, and none of it is under my con
trol or orders except the Secor.
The medical director of General Hunter's department holds all the
medical stores and refuses to turn them over to the acting medical
director of the detachment, and you ordered me to revoke his appoint
ment.
The commissary stores sent from North Carolina expressly for the
detachment of the Eighteenth Corps are afloat, and I am ordered not
to appoint a commissary of the detachment to receive them ; all of
which is in direct collision with my orders from General Foster, and
does not harmonize with the direction of the President that "the
organization, men and material," should not be disturbed.
Being second in command only to General Hunter and the senior
officer commanding the forces from North Carolina, acting always under
the general orders and instructions of General Hunter, I had hoped
that I would have been permitted, without unnecessary restraints, to
so command the forces left under my command as the more effectually
to secure the great objects of the Government for which we had been
brought together.
In conclusion, colonel, assure the general for me that in again enter
ing my protest I mean no disrespect, but am guided only by a solemn
duty, which my position as the senior officer commanding the detach
ment of the Eighteenth Corps and my own self-respect demand of me.
I shall pass over in silence the indications conveyed by the instructions
and order referred to, and in the necessities of our common country
smother the feeling that under no other circumstances would I attempt
to control. Assure the general that, regardless of all feelings in the
movement now contemplated, I will serve in any capacity in which he
may place me.
Yery respectfully , &c.,
HENEY M. NAGLEE,
Brigadier- General, Commanding,
CHAP. XXVI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. — UNION. 417
HEADQUARTERS EIGHTEENTH ARMY CORPS,
New Berne, N. C., March 2, 1863.
Hon. E. M. STANTON,
Secretary of War, Washington :
SIR : Inclosed you will find a copy of Special' Orders, No. 97,* issued
from the headquarters of the Department of the South, commanding
the staff of General Foster to "quit" that department.
Upon the receipt of this order the chief of staff addressed a note to
Major-General Hunter, asking to be informed what two members of
General Foster's staff were alluded to and what statements and remarks
had been made to warrant the charges conveyed in the above special
order. To this note no reply whatever has been made. Denying as we
do most emphatically the truth of the accusations made against us in
the same order, and feeling aggrieved at the imcourteous treatment
we have received at the hands of the major-general commanding the
Department of the South, we respectfully suggest that you will order
a court of inquiry in the case or take such other action as you may
deem proper. ,
We are, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servants,
EDWARD E. POTTER,
Brigadier- General, Chief of Staff „
FRANCIS DARK,
Lieut. Col. and Commissary of Subsistence.
JAMES H. STRONG,
Captain and Aide-de-Camp.
GEO. E. GOURAND,
Captain and Aide-de-Camp.
LOUIS FITZGERALD,
Captain and Aide-de-Camp.
FRANCIS IT. FARQUHAR,
Second Lieutenant, U. S. Army.
F. G. SNELLING,
U. S. Volunteers, Medical Director,
JAS. O. SLAGHT,
Captain and Assistant Quartermaster.
HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE SOUTH,
Hilton Head, Port Royal, S. C., March 3, 1863.
Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLECK,
Oeneral-in- Chief U. S. Army, Washington, D. C.:
GENERAL : You will be happy to hear of the destruction of the Nash
ville in the Ogeechee River by the guns of the iron-clad Montauk; and
as I write we hear the bombardment of Fort McAllister progressing
fiercely, Admiral DuPont having been desirous of testing his untried
iron-ciads against its ramparts.
Everything looks well for us and the troops appear in the highest
spirits, the regiments under orders to embark being the picked men
of the department. The approaches to Beaufort on Port Royal Island
have been strongly fortified, as indications lead me to believe that the
enemy will attempt a diversion against that post while the attack on
Charleston is in progress.
* See p. 409.
27 R R— VOL XIV
418 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. xxvi.
We now only await the return of the iron-clads from Fort McAllister
and the signal of the admiral to start, all our preparations being com
plete, so that nothing is left but to embark them.
And now to the only disturbing element in the department— an ele
ment, however, which shall not be allowed to operate to the detriment of
the public interests.
I have the honor to transmit herewith certified copy of another pro-
t(>st — the third altogether, in formal shape, received from Brig. Gen.
Henry M. Naglee, who appears to be devoting himself with all his
energies to a revival in his own person of those pretensions which were
disallowed and disapproved in the case of Major-General Foster. I
say this is the third protest "in formal shape" received from General
Naglee, the fact being that every order sent to him or paper referred
has been made the occasion of an informal protest, either by indorse
ment or answer.
Previous to the receipt of your decision on the questions raised by
Major-General Foster I was led to regard the vexatious, quibbling, and
evasive course pursued by General Naglee as the result merely of his
desire to protect interests that had been confided to his charge by his
former commanding officer, General Naglee in almost every instance
accompanying his written protest by verbal protestations that he was
no party to the difficulty himself, and that he only acted as he did in
order to make a record which could not be used to his disadvantage in
case he should ever hereafter be returned to General Foster's command.
Frankly accepting this view of his conduct, and as frankly giving him
credit therefor, I failed to avail myself of the authority by you given to
relieve him of his command, but on the contrary sent him a friendly
and even complimentary letter, duplicate of which is inclosed,* express
ing this view of his previous action, and stating my desire to retain him
and my hope that he would have no reason to regret his service in this
department. But ever since the sending of that letter, for which it
would appear as if he had been waiting, General Naglee has pursued a
systematic course of vexatious delays, evasive special pleadings, and
distorted interpretations with regard to all orders sent from these head
quarters, his object apparently being to assert and obtain by indirec
tion and mere annoyance an acknowledgment in his own person of the
claims to separate and independent command first raised by Major-Gen
eral Foster. So far has this gone that I much fear he will compel me
to avail myself of the privilege given by you of relieving him from com
mand in this department — a privilege, however, of which I shall not
avail myself until the good of the public service makes such a step un
avoidable.
All the difficulty would be avoided by the consolidation of the re-en
forcements from North Carolina with the Tenth Army Corps ; the whole
not making, even when thus consolidated, an aggregate much, if at all,
exceeding 22,000 men, and I have most earnestly to beg that this may
be done.
I have also to beg that some brigadier-general senior to General
Naglee may be sent to this department immediately.
I have the honor to be, general, very respectfully, your most obedient
servant,
D. HUNTEE,
Major- General, Commanding.
* See p. 412, Halpine to Naglee, February 27, 1863.
CHAP. XXVI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. UNION. 419
SAINT HELENA, March 3, 1863.
[Major- General FOSTER:]
MY DEAR GENERAL: The within accompanying are sent confiden
tially, and with the purpose of informing you of all of the facts, which,
with the orders, indorsements, protest, &c., will advise you that the
detachment organization is ordered to be broken up and the within
relieved of the command of it and placed in charge of a division.* This
is directly in disobedience of the positive orders of the 15th and 16th
ultimo.
Captain [Hook?], of the regular battery, has been ordered by General
Hunter to Key West, and his company has been ordered to join the
rest of the regiment of the First Artillery at Beaufort.
We were all in hopes after the orders from Washington that concord
would again prevail, but alas, all feel pained at the course now pursued
in this most embarrassing contest. I have done all to place the subject
in its proper light, and whilst I have tried to avoid unnecessary collision
I have allowed no indignity to go unnoticed. Our people have all suf
fered from the effects of this most unfortunate, unmeaning trouble,
which could result in no possible good, and may result in confusion, if
not worse.
I have no knowledge of the plan of attack; not one word has been
asked or uttered upon the subject.
Expect to see me after the problem is solved, and this will be the ex
ception if the truth does not yet prevail.
My kindest regards to all, Mrs. F. and the disaffected. You will now
understand the object of their being sent away, for otherwise the com
mand could not have been so easily broken up, and the moment I at
tempted to supply their places by acting appointments he rescinded
my orders (see his Special, 116, and letter without date), and ordered
that there should not be a separate corps organization in his depart
ment, forgetting that during the time he had us absorbed in the Tenth
that Halpine hinted to [George H.] Johnston, my assistant adjutant-
general, that a provisional corps organization with myself as commander
would be organized if 1 desired it.
All of our time is taken up in the changes of detail, and the prepara
tions for so important an issue are utterly impossible, independent of
the fact that these latter have been now assumed entirely by General
Seymour, of which we are entirely ignorant.
Your anticipations in regard to the latter seem to have been well
founded. I will add no more. Do write, that I may know what is going
on, and address me under cover of the admiral.
Sincerely, yours,
tfAGLEE.
GENERAL ORDERS, ) HDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF THE .SOUTH,
No. 16. f Hilton Head, Port Royal, S. 0., March 5, 1863.
SOLDIERS OF THE DEPARTMENT OF THE SOUTH:
After long and wearying delays, due to causes over which no one in
this department had control, we have at length the cheering prospect
of active and very important service.
Soldiers of the Tenth Army Corps, you are stimulated by every con-
* See p. 413.
420 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVI.
sideratiou of honor to vie with the gallant men from the Department of
North Carolina, who have been sent by Government to take part with
yon in the dangers and the glory of operations now pending.
Officers and men of the command, you are adjured to the performance
of every duty. All who earn distinction, no matter how humble their
positions, have my pledge that their services shall be honorably ac
knowledged and the acknowledgment pressed to their advantage.
Commanding officers of divisions, brigades, and regiments, in making
their reports to these headquarters, will give the name of every officer
and a full descriptive list of every non-commissioned officer and soldier
of their commands who has attracted their observation as behaving with
special gallantry or good conduct, in order that the names of all such
may be published with honor at their own homes; and all who are thus
mentioned may rely that no effort shall be lacking on the part of the
major-general commanding to secure their promotion.
Should any officers neglect their men or evince the least disposition to
shrink at any moment from the proper responsibilities of their com
missions they will be likewise reported and held amenable to the
severest penalties denounced by military law for misconduct in pres
ence of the enemy. Should private soldiers distinguish themselves
while officers become liable to censure it would be treason to the
country not to compel an exchange of places.
The attention of all officers is earnestly called to Article 37, Revised
Regulations for the Army, in relation to " troops on board transports,"
paragraphs 861 and 863 of this article being of particular importance.
By command of Maj. Gen. D. Hunter:
CHAS. G. HALPINE,
Assistant Adjutant- General, Tenth Army Corps.
SPECIAL ORDERS, ) HDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF THE SOUTH,
No. 127. f Hilton Head, Port Royal, S. G., March 5, 1863.
Brig. Gen. Henry M. Naglee having sent a third insubordinate pro
test, much more objectionable than the first, to these headquarters, his
first having been disapproved by the Hon. Secretary of War, who in
consequence directed that he be relieved from duty in this department,
afterward leaving it optional with the commanding general to relieve
or retain him, the commanding general, after very mature reflection
and with a solemn sense of his responsibilities to his country, sincerely
believes that the harmony of the department and the best interests of
the service require that General Naglee should be relieved from duty.
The said Brig. Gen. Henry M. Naglee is therefore hereby relieved from
doty in the Department of the South, and Brig. Gen.' Orris S. Ferry
will immediately assume command of all the U. S. forces on Saint Helena
Island.
Brig. Gen. Henry M. Naglee will proceed to the city of New York by
the first steamer and report by letter to the Adjutant-General of the
Army.
By command of Maj or- General Hunter:
CHAS. G. HALPINE,
Asst. Adjt. Gen., Tenth Army Corps and Dept. of the South.
CHAI-. XXVI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. UNION. 421
HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE SOUTH,
March 6, 1863.
Admiral S. P. DuPONT,
Comdg. S. A. B. Squad., Flag-ship Wabasli, Port Royal Harbor:
ADMIRAL: I am sending Colonel Higginson, commanding First South
Carolina Brigade, to execute an important mission in the southerly part
of this department, and have to beg, if consistent with your views of the
interests of the service, that you will give the colonel a letter to the
officers of your squadron on duty opposite the Florida coast to render
any assistance in their power that shall not interfere with your other
duties.
I have the honor to be, admiral, with very sincere esteem, your obe
dient servant.
D. HUNTER,
Major- General, Commanding.
HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE SOUTH,
Hilton Head, Port Royal, S. £., March 6, 1863,
Brig. Gen. JOSEPH G. TOTTEN,
Colonel and Chief of Engineers, U. S. Army :
GENERAL : I have the honor to report to you that Lieut. Walter Me-
Farlaiid, U. S. Engineers, arrived at this place last night, in conformity
to Special Orders, No. 104, from the headquarters of this department
(a copy of which accompanies this letter), and addressed to me a copy
of a communication from yourself, dated March 25, 1862, and a protest
by himself,* in accordance with your instructions to him in that com
munication. Copies of th^se last-mentioned papers are inclosed here
with.
There has been no want of conviction on my part as to the para
mount importance of Key West and the necessity of completing its de
fenses. An additional regiment has very recently been sent to strengthen
the garrison of that post and of the Tortugas, and a competent officer
of the regular service has faeen ordered there as director of artillery.
Full instructions as to the great consequence of these works have been
communicated to the commanding officer and his attention turned to
every measure that has suggested itself to my mind as to defense.
It was believed that Lieutenant McFarland could be spared for a
week or ten days to assist in the attack upon Charleston, which will
probably involve operations of delicacy and skill too great to be de
volved upon any single officer unaided, no matter what his ability may
be, and the pressing nature of a necessity that could not be put aside
induced the shortest possible method of arriving at the point desired.
Any desire to interfere witb your plans is therefore disclaimed, and
Lieutenant McFarland will be ordered to return to Key West as soon
as the emergency has passed by ; but it is earnestly requested that you
will permit him to remain here during this emergency, in which his
services will be as indispensable perhaps as at any other point.
1 may add that it is understood from Lieutenant McFarland that his
short absence from his station will, in view of the arrangements made
by him, not be any material detriment to the public good.
Very respectfully, general, your obedient servant,
D. HUNTER,
Major- General, Commanding.
"Not found.
422 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP.
fin closure No. 1.]
SPECIAL ORDERS. ) HDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF THE SOUTH,
No. 104. J Hilton Head, Port Royal, S. C., February 21, 1863.
In view of active operations now pending in this department render
ing an additional engineer officer necessary at these headquarters, First
Lieut. Walter McFarland, U. S. Engineers, now stationed at Key West,
will embark for Hilton Head on the vessel taking down this order with
out delay.
By command of Major-General Hunter :
GHAS. G. HALP1NE,
Assistant Adjutant- General, Tenth Army Corps.
[Inclosnre "No. 2.]
ENGINEER DEPARTMENT,
Washington, March 25, 1862.
Lieut. W. MoFARLAND,
Corps of Engineers, Fort Taylor, Fla.:
SIR : On the subject of your letter of the 12th instant, received on the
20th, I have to reply that your duties in the preparation of the system
of defenses at Key West are exclusively under the control of the En
gineer Department, from which the plans of those defenses and the in
structions for their execution have been and will be supplied, the funds
applied thereto being derived from the Treasury on requisition from
this department, approved by the Secretary of War.
That this is the case cannot but be well understood throughout the
Army, and it must be assumed therefore by me that no officer com
manding troops at Key West or elsewhere will undertake to interfere
in your execution of those duties.
Should, however, any such interference take place, it will be your
duty to represent in writing to the officer who may give you orders
contravening the instructions from this department under which you
are working, or impeding or interfering with the construction of the de
fenses according to the plans and instructions furnished you from here,
that these plans have the approval of the War Department, which re
quires that they shall be pressed forward with all the vigor permitted
by the appropriation ; that 3rou are held responsible for the execution
in strict conformity thereto and to the instructions furnished you from
the Engineer Department, and that you respectfully protest against any
orders touching these duties being given you by any other authority.
This done, if the orders are persisted in it will be your duty to obey
them; but you will in such case at once report to the Engineer Depart
ment full particulars of the occurrence as it takes place, in order that
this office may inform the Secretary of War that its responsibility as to
the prosecution of these defenses and the expenditure of funds appro
priated therefor has been removed by such interference.
I trust no such question will arise to impede the progress of your
works, so indispensable to the preservation of the island and harbor of
Key West and to the control by the Union of the Gulf of Mexico j
and it will diminish the probability of such unfortunate result for you,
in the spirit that always governs the officers of your corps, to have a
full understanding with the commanding officer that you heartily de
sire to aid him in every possible way consistent with full success in the
paramount and peculiar duties of your engineer trust.
CHAP. XXVI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. UNION. 423
Should you be obliged to enter the protest mentioned above you will
accompany it with a copy of this letter.
Very, &c.,
JOS. G. TOTTEN,
Brevet Brigadier- General and Colonel of Engineers.
BEAUFORT, S. 0., March 6, 1863.
Hon. E. M. STANTON,
Secretary of War :
SIR: I have the honor to report that I have sent the First Eegiment
of South Carolina Volunteers, Colonel Higginson commanding, and the
portion of the Second Regiment, already mustered into service, under
Colonel Montgomery, up the Saint John's River, Florida, with orders
to occupy and intrench themselves at Jacksonville. This place is now
occupied by a small force of rebels, some of whom I hope to capture.
I have reliable information that there are large numbers of able-bodied
negroes in that vicinity who are watching for an opportunity to join us.
The negroes from Florida are far more intelligent than any I have yet
seen, fully understand their position and the intentions of the Gov
ernment toward them. They will fight with as much desperation as
any people in the world. I have many of these Florida men in the First
South Carolina Regiment, and no one who knows anything about that
regiment now doubts its efficiency. It has fought its way to the esteem
of its enemies. The last expedition it made up the Saint Mary's River,
in Georgia, which I had the honor to report to you, caused a perfect
panic throughout the State of Georgia. In one engagement on that
occasion, which was not mentioned in my last report to you for want of
sufficient data, I have since learned that they killed and wounded 60 of
the enemy.
I feel great hopes that we shall strike a heavy blow in Florida. There
is at present a great scarcity of muskets and ammunition in this depart
ment. If this want is supplied it is my opinion that the entire State of
Florida can be rescued from the enemy, and an asylum established for
persons from other States who are freed from bondage by the proclama
tion of freedom, from which they can never be driven. The history of
the Florida Indian war shows how strong this peculiar country is for
a defensive warfare. I hope that" the attack of the colored troops in
Florida will occur at nearly the same time with that of Admiral DuPont
upon Charleston. I shall send early reports of the operations of the
expedition.
I am, sir, with great respect, your obedient servant,
R. SAXTON,
Brigadier- General of Volunteers*
PORT ROYAL, March 7, 1863.
Maj. Gen. J. G. FOSTER,
U. S. Army, New Berne, N. 0. :
GENERAL : The within,* with Orders (Special), No. 116, and a letter of
the same date,t will inform you of the last change in the Department of
* Copy of Special Orders, 127, p. 420. t Not found.
424 COASTS OF S. C.j GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVI.
the South. I shall leave on Tuesday, the 10th, on the Mary Boardman,
for New York. You must act promptly in the premises. Address me
under cover to Mr. James A. Burk, Philadelphia, of what you desire
me to do and to whom I shall apply to represent you in Washington.
Ledlie has been ordered to North Carolina.
Kindest regards to all of our friends, and am, sincerely, &c.,
HENRY M. NAGLEE,
Brigadier- General.
P. S.— If important, send duplicate addressed to me at the New York
Hotel.
NAGLEE.
HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE SOUTH,
Hilton Head, March 1, 1863.
Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLECK,
General-in-Chief U. 8. Army, Washington, D. C. :
GENERAL : Everything being now in a state of complete readiness
for the forces under ray command to take the part assigned to them in
the joint attack upon Charleston, the troops designated for the service
having all their preparations completed and having had all the neces
sary drill iu the surf boat exercise and in the practice of embarking and
disembarking, 1 feel it my duty (in the lull while we wait the signal
from Admiral DuPont that he is ready) to lay before you an exact ex
hibit of the forces available for the expedition and of the forces necessary
to be left behind as garrisons for the forts and posts of this department.
The garrisons of Key West and the Tortugas, as I have already had
the honor of reporting, are much less in the number of men and in the
number and caliber of guns than would seem requisite in view of the
complications of French policy in the immediate vicinity. At Saint
Augustine we have the Seventh New Hampshire, under Colonel Put
nam ; at Feruandina the Seventh Connecticut, under Colonel Hawley;
and at Fort Pulasldthe Forty-eighth New York, under Colonel Barton.
It is self-evident that none of these garrisons can be safely reduced.
Indeed if the men could be had it would give me much relief from
anxiety to increase the forces at Key West and the Tortugas, placing
both posts under the command of an experienced artillery officer with
.sufficient rank.
Deducting the garrisons above named and excluding the colored
troops who cannot consistently withjthe interests of the service (in the
present state of feeling) be advantageously employed to act in concert
with our other forces, I am I hus left with a total of 16,748 men fit for
duty, divided at present as follows:
On Saint Helena Island, under General Orris S. Ferry, the North Carolina
re-enforcements ! 9, 269
Port Royal Island, under command of General Saxton 2, 985
Hilton Head Island, under General A. H. Terry 4, 494
Total of effective men 16, 748
As it is altogether probable that the enemy on being apprised of our
operations against Charleston will attempt diversions by 'attacking
either Port Royal or Hilton Head Island or both, the garrisons of these
important posts cannot safely be much reduced; fully 2,500 men being
required for the defense of the vast depots and lines' of works on this
island, and at least 2,000 for the retention of Port Koyal Island, where,
CIIAV. XXVI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. UNION. 425
on account of its superior hcalthfulness, our chief hospitals have been
placed. This you see will leave me, taxing all our resources to the
uttermost, but 12,250 men to take to the attack on Charleston ; while
from the most reliable calculations we have been able to make the
enemy will be enabled to concentrate not less than 65,000 men (and
many estimates put these figures 10,000 higher) in and around the de
fenses of Charleston City and Harbor.
These statements are merely put on record for your information, and
not, so far as the operations against Charleston are concerned, as a-
demand for more troops. The force named will be sufficiently powerful
to take permanent advantage of any successes gained by the Navy, as
at New Orleans, and will also, I trust, and shall strongly endeavor so
to make it, be able to make a strong diversion in favor of the Navy
during the attack.
Nevertheless it is but right to call to your notice one of " the saddest
legacies " (quoting the words of a distinguished officer of the Navy,
speaking of it) left by Major- General Foster to this department dur
ing his brief visit — an indiscretion on his part which 1 have reason to
apprehend may cost some time and many valuable lives to repair.
It had been my intention to have debarked the command on the
southern extremity of Morris Island, near Light-House Inlet, or along
the northern extremity of Folly Island, irom whence Light-House Inlet
could readily have been crossed and an advance made against the rebel
batteries on Cummings Point. Everything promised fairly for this
operation, the enemy having evidently overlooked the accessibility and
advantages of this position — a neglect from which they were indiscreetly
aroused by Major General Foster, who landed some members of his
staff, with 15 men, on Folly Island, about 3 p. m. one afternoon, in full
view of the enemy's pickets, the apparent object being to make a re
connaissance of a stretch of sea-beach, every foot of which was under
the observation of the glasses of the Navy and had been for some
months. The result is that the enemy have now thrown up strong
works on Morris Island, commanding Light-House Inlet and sweeping
the northern extremity of Folly Island ; their laboring parties being
now observable clearing away the small sand hills and whatever other
natural cover the ground afforded.
All these matters are respectfully submitted for your consideration,
but let me add, neither in a complaining nor desponding spirit. I have
the fullest faith that a glorious victory awaits our arms at Charleston,
and you may rest assured, general, that no efforts shall be lacking on
my part to secure this result.
With the highest esteem, I have the honor to be, general, your very
obedient servant,
D. HUNTER,
Major- General Commanding.
HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE SOUTH,
Hilton Head, 8. C., March 7, 1863.
Maj. Gen. II. W. HALLECK,
General-in-Chief U. 8. Army, Washington, 1). €.:
GENERAL: I have the honor to transmit herewith certified copy of
an order* relieving General Naglee from duty in this department and
"See Special Orders, No. 127, Headquarters Department of the Sonth, March 5,
T863, on p. 4-20.
426 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVI.
directing him to proceed to New York, from which point he will report
by letter to the Adjutant-General U. S. Army.
No act of my official life has cost me more serious reflection than this,
nor does it often fall to the lot of an officer to perform a clear duty
which costs him so much pain. Personally prepossessed in favor of
General Naglee I had resort to every effort of conciliation, but without
avail, in order to ward off the necessity for this step. Concessions and
overlookings of minor irregularities were merely regarded as licenses
for further and yet graver breaches of discipline, until finally I was
forced to the belief, in which 1 remain and believe I have substantial
reasons for remaining, that General Naglee had made up his mind not
to serve under my command, and took the extraordinary course he has
taken with a direct view to forcing my action as indicated.
Before General Naglee had been an hour in the department he com
mitted a grave breach of courtesy, to say the least, in visiting Admiral
DuPont before reporting to me, and consulting the admiral as to the
condition of matters in the department and our future operations with
out the least reference to my authority. This was a day previous to
General Foster's arrival; and I only became aware of the fact by meet
ing General Naglee in the cabin of the Wabash, while paying an official
visit to the admiral, who by his conduct on the occasion only too clearly
failed to conceal that he appreciated the irregularity of which General
Naglee had been guilty.
In the extraordinary correspondence which grew out of General
Foster's claim to separate and independent command you are already
advised of the objectionable style of General Naglee's protests, so objec
tionable as to incur against him your disapproval and an order that he
be relieved from duty in this department.
Your order was subsequently modified, doubtless on my representa
tions that I did not wish to hold General Naglee responsible for acts
done in defense of what he professed to consider General Foster's rights,
the modification leaving it optional with me whether to relieve or retain
him. So eager was I to avoid all further trouble in the matter that I
gave ready credence to General Naglee's verbal protestations that all
difficulties were now at an end, and frankly and in full good faith ac
cepted his asseverations that he was no party to the course calling in
question my authority, but that he had acted throughout the affair ex
clusively with a view to preserve a record which could not be used to
his disadvantage in case he should at any time be returned under Gen
eral Foster's command. In this view of General Naglee's conduct I was
strengthened by evidence which appeared to me, and appears, satisfac
tory, that the first protest against my authority, signed by General
Naglee, had been written by Brig. Gen. E. E. Potter, chief of staff to
Major-Gen eral Foster.
No sooner, however, acting under this view, had I exercised my option
in favor of retaining General Naglee's services, conveying the announce
ment of my intention in language calculated to remove all previous
asperities, bury former differences, and clear a smooth path for future
harmony, than General Naglee instantly commenced to set up on his
own behalf substantially all the pretensions which had been disallowed
and disapproved in the case of Major-General Foster, demanding in
effect to have a staff corps organization for the troops brought down
from North Carolina wholly separate from and independent of the
department staff, this claim being apparently based on his refusal to
regard my staff organization as that of the general commanding the
department, but insisting that it was merely a staff for the Tenth Army
CHAP. XXVI. J CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. UNION. 427
Corps, and as such could exercise no functions looking to a supervision
on my behalf of the affairs of the detachment from the Eighteenth Army
Corps.
With the highest esteem, general, I have the honor to be, your very
obedient servant,
D. HUNTER,
Major- Genera I, Commanding.
WASHINGTON, D. 0., March 13, 1863.
Major-General HUNTER,
Comdg. Department of the South, Hilton Head, S. C. :
GENERAL : Yours of the 3d instant, with accompanying papers, is re
ceived.
Your former letter on the subject of your difficulties with General
Foster was handed to the Secretary of War for such instructions as he
might deem proper to order. He has given none to me.
The instructions sent to you by Adjutant- General Townsend were
drawn up under the Secretary's direction, and cannot be changed with
out his orders.
In regard to General Kaglee, it was left optional with you to retain
him or send him to the Department of North Carolina.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
H. W. HALLECK,
General-in-Chief.
HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE SOUTH,
Hilton Head, Port Royal, 8. C., March 13, 1863.
Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLECK,
General-in-Chief U. 8. Army, Washington, D. C. :
GENERAL: I have the honor to acquaint you that, having had an
interview yesterday with Kear- Admiral S. F. DuPont, I find that the re
cent experiments with the iron-clads against Fort McAlister have dem
onstrated certain defects grave enough in the opinion of the admiral
to call for a postponement of active operations until they shall have
been remedied. The exact nature of the alterations shown to be neces
sary I need not precisely detail, but may say in general that the deck
plating will have to be strengthened and the magazines more securely
armored. Large fatigue parties of my command are now at work cut
ting timber to coat the decks, and the admiral has sent North the
steamer Ericsson for a fresh layer of iron plates for each deck.
The result of the torpedoes which exploded under the Montauk has
also made the admiral anxious for certain submarine torpedo-exploders,
for which he has also sent North.
Owing to these causes a delay of some weeks would appear now in
evitable — a thing to be regretted, but which is wholly unavoidable. The
repose shall be used to perfect the troops selected in all matters neces
sary to the work before them, and I respectfully ask that to this end
you will assign to service in this department the two brigadier-generals
asked for in my last.
There is nothing of the least consequence new. Three deserters from
Savannah to-day announce that a third ram is now ready to receive her
armament, the Atlanta and Georgia being complete and afloat below
428 COASTS OF s. a, GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAI-. XXVL
Fort Jackson, and that two additional rams have been commenced.
The men are Northern and appear reliable.
Last night the enemy made a dash across Skull Creek, near Spanish
Wells, and captured an officer and some few men belonging to the
Signal Corps, immediately getting back into their boats and escaping
before our infantry, though very alert, could overtake them.
I take this occasion of again renewing my request for a regiment of
cavalry, the one battalion of the First Massachusetts Cavalry stationed
in the department being utterly unable to furnish the necessary reliefs
for patrols and pickets, while the exposed situation of these islands,
liable to sudden forays of the enemy from the main-land, renders it
peculiarly desirable that we should have speedy means for the trans
mission of intelligence.
I have the honor to be, general, with high esteem, your most obedient
servant,
D. HUNTER,
Major- General, Commanding.
HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE SOUTH,
Hilton Head, S. C.. March 14, 1863.
General M. C. MEIGS, Quartermaster- General U. S. Army ;
GENERAL: We have not a pound of coal. Full estimates have been
sent, but it does not arrive. Unless it is sent immediately great delay,
and possibly disaster, may occur.
I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your most obedient servant,
D. HUNTER,
Major- General, Commanding.
SAINT NICHOLAS, New York, March 15, 1863.
Maj. Gen. J. G. FOSTER:
GENERAL: I send you the order of General Hunter ordering me from
his department.* I had attempted to send the order by the Quaker
City, but that failed.
I have just arrived, and am therefore yet unable to do anything or
t« say what course I shall pursue. We have everything in our hands
if only used to advantage. I consider the conduct of Hunter in every
thing pertaining to your department as outrageously indecent, uncivil,
illegal, and despotic in the extreme.
He is now doing his best to place us in a false position by insinuation
and garbled partial statements. Not knowing who are your especial
friends, I do not know how to find your friends and those of the gentle
men of your staff. I was surprised that I received no letter from you
excepting only the one that was sent by Darr.
Truly and sincerely, yours,
HENRY M. NAGLEE.
WASHINGTON, D. C., March 16, 1863.
Major-General HUNTER,
Commanding, &c., Hilton Head, S. C. :
GENERAL : Yours of the 7th and llth instant are just received. Briga-
* See p. 4-20.
CHAP. XXVI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. UNION. 429
dier-General Garfield was ordered to the West by the War Department
at his own request. If he was previously ordered to the Department of
the South and you were not notified of the change it was an oversight
of the Adjutant GeueraFs Department.
Your want of good and instructed brigadier-generals is one very gen
erally felt in the service, and nearly every general commanding an army
has made the same request. Each one must take his proportion of the
good and the poor. You certainly have your share of the first class,
and I can send you any number of the second class which you may
require.
Generals Stevenson and Heckmau are confirmed. In the order issued
last summer assigning Pensacolato the Department of the Gulf it was
intended to include Key West and the Tortugas, as being more acces
sible from New Orleans than Hilton Head, but they were omitted by
an oversight. This will now be done.
Lieutenant McFarland should be immediately returned to Key West
on being relieved from duty at Hilton Head. Another engineer officer
will be sent to you from the Army of the Potomac.
No more heavy artillery can at present be furnished by the Ordnance
Department for the forts in the South.
Very respectful^ your obedient servant.
H. W. HALLECK,
General-in- Chief.
ENGINEER DEPARTMENT,
Washington, March 16, 1863.
Maj. Gen. D. HUNTER,
Comdg. Department of the South, Hilton Head, S. C. :
SIR: I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of
6th instant, stating that you had ordered Lieut. W. McFarland, Corps
of Engineers, from Key West to report to you at Hilton Head.
Considering the great necessity which exists for the presence of Lieu
tenant McFarland with his duties at Key West, I have asked to have
another officer of engineers sent to you for service in your operations,
and I have to request that Lieutenant McFarland may be restored to
his duties at Key West as soon as possible.
Yery, &c.,
JOS. G. TOTTEN,
Brevet Brigadier General and Colonel of Engineers.
GENERAL ORDERS, ) HDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF THE SOUTH,
No. 24. j Hilton Head, Port Royal, 8. C., March 19, 1863.
I. All able-bodied negroes employed by the Engineer Department on
permanent fortifications are exempted from the operation of General
Orders, No. 17, current series, from these headquarters.
II. All plantation superintendents, tradesmen, sutlers, landholders,
speculators, and others within the department are hereby cautioned
against harboring, secreting, or keeping in their employ able-bodied
male negroes liable to the draft. All negroes in private service, except
those in the employ of commissioned officers, as provided for in General
Orders, No. 17, will be immediately reported to Brig. Gen. Eufus Saxton,
commanding United States forces, Port Koyal Island, and none will be
430 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CIIAI-. XXYL
exempted except on medical certificate of disability, to be approved
after personal examination of a board of not less than three medical
officers, who will be appointed by General Saxton from among the
medical staff detailed by the Surgeon-General for attendance on the
contrabands. All persons contravening the provisions of this order
will subject themselves to a confiscation of their goods and to be sent
out of the department by the first Vessel going North.
III. Various complaints having been brought to the notice of these
headquarters to the effect that negroes employed otherwise than in the
public service have been and are defrauded of their just earnings by
the avarice of masters, who take advantage of their ignorance, all such
complaints will hereafter be brought before the commander of the post
in which the employers reside, and will be investigated and decided
upon by an officer who will be detailed to this duty by such post com
mander. On the report of this officer the post commander will issue
the necessary orders giving redress to the injured party.
By command of Maj. Gen. D. Hunter :
OHAS. G. HALPINE,
Asst. Adjt. Gen., Tenth Army Corps and Dept. of the South.
HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE SOUTH,
Hilton Head, Port Royal, S. C., March 20, 1863.
Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLECK,
General-in-Chief U. <S'. Army, Washington, ]). C. ;
GENERAL : I have the honor to call your attention to the fact that
certain regiments and detachments in the forces recently arrived from
North Carolina were mustered in, some for two years, their time ex
piring 23d of April next; some for nine months, their time expiring
early next May, and have to ask instructions with regard to the same.
In more than one instance numbers of recruits for three years have been
assigned to two-years' regiments, and applications have been made to
me by the colonels of three-years' regiments to have such recruits as
signed to fill up their ranks when the term of the two-years' regiments
expires. I should add, in justice to the men and officers whose term
expires within the next two months, that most of them express not
merely a willingness but a strong desire to remain in the service until
after the termination of pending operations against Charleston, but as
there are others who will undoubtedly apply for their discharges, and
in sufficient numbers to be embarrassing, I most respectfully solicit in
structions with regard to them.
The health of the command is excellent. I have sent a regiment to
occupy Cole's Island, at the mouth of Stono Inlet, which will be our
immediate base of operations. There is nothing new. The admiral is
daily expecting the arrival of the Keokuk and the return of the Erics
son with the plating necessary to complete the additional armor for the
decks and magazines of the iron-clads.
I have the honor to be, general, with sincere esteem, your very obe
dient servant,
D. HUNTEB,
Major- General, Commanding.
CHAT. XXVI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. UNION. 431
• HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE SOUTH,
Hilton Head, Port Royal, 8. C., March 20, 1863.
Geiieral JOSEPH G. TOTTEN,
U. 8. Engineers, Washington :
GENERAL, : I have the honor to call your attention to the fact that
the extent, condition, and importance of the permanent fortifications
of this department would seem to demand the supervision of an officer
of the Engineer Corps.
The very important works at Key West and the Tortugas are still in
an incomplete condition as to construction and armament, and the
work at Fernandina is under charge of an officer of the Volunteer En
gineers.
It is respectfully requested, therefore, that Col. J. C. Duane, chief
engineer of this department, be appointed inspector of such works.
I have the honor to be general, with very high esteem, your most
obedient servant, •
D. HUNTEK,
Major- General, Commanding.
HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE SOUTH,
Hilton Head, Port Royal, 8. C., March 23, 18Q3.
Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLECK,
General-in-Chief U. 8. Army, Washington, D. C.:
GENERAL: As an old soldier you must be fully aware that all the
trouble in this department has resulted from the astonishing fact that
10,000 men were sent here without any written orders, and, so far as 1
can learn, without any orders at all, but all evidently holding the be
lief that they were not to be under my orders. Yet I am gravely re
minded in your letter of the IGth February that —
If the plans of the Government should fail to be carried out for want of harmony
those who have engendered and fostered animosities and jealousies will incur a very
serious responsibility.
I am also informed in your letter of the 15th of February as follows:
But while this command remains as a distinct organization, with its own officers,
as assigned by its proper chief, the command itself, so long as it remains in your de
partment, will be subject to your orders.
I was thus saddled with pro-slavery generals in whom I have not the
least confidence, and who were encouraged by orders from Washington
to protest against my authority. Under these circumstances I think
the country will decide "if the plans of the Government should fail to
be carried out for want of harmony" that the blarae will attach at
Washington, and that the people will determine that " those who have
engendered or fostered animosities " do not reside in this department.
And how can you hold me wholly responsible for the conduct of gen
erals in. whom I have no confidence, when every act of the authorities
in Washington has tended to disorganize and demoralize my com
mand? I do not say this, general, in anger, but in sorrow. 1 may fall
at Charleston, and I deem it a duty I owe my friends to have this
simple statement of facts on record.
I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
D. HUNTEK,
Major- General, Commanding.
432 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA.' [CHAP. XXVI.
HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE SOUTH,
Hilton Head, S. C., March 27, 1863.
Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLECK,
General-in-Chief U. S Army, Washington, D. C.:
GENERAL : I have the honor to report that the last of the iron-clads
(the Keokuk) has arrived, and that I have sent a brigade of troops to
occupy North Edisto ; also a regiment to occupy Cole's Island, at the
month of Stono Inlet.
All the troops destined to take part in the expedition are in complete
readiness to move whenever the necessary repairs and additions to the
irou-clads shall have been made. The navy transport Ericsson has re
turned, I am informed, with all the requisite material for pushing for
ward promptly the completion of the monitors, and I hope by the mid
dle of next week that the joint expedition will be under way.
I have ordered up here all the troops who were temporarily occupy
ing Jacksonville, Fla. ; also five companies of the Seventh Regiment
Connecticut Volunteers from Fernandina, and five companies Seventh
Regiment New Hampshire Volunteers from Saint Augustine.
There is nothing further of interest to report. The health of the
troops continues excellent, and those from North Carolina have much
improved in discipline. Deserters continue to come in from the main
land, and all speak of the great scarcity of provisions amongst the rebels.
I have the honor to be, general, with the highest esteem, your very
obedient servant,
D. HUNTEB,
Major- General, Commanding.
HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE SOUTH,
Hilton Head, S. (7., March 28, 1863.
Hon. E. M. STANTON,
Secretary of War, Washington, D. C. :
SIR: I am impelled by a sense of duty to call your attention to the
condition of affairs at Key West, more especially in regard to the politi
cal sentiments and attitude of certain civil officers who are the repre
sentatives of Government at that post. Key West being no longer
under my jurisdiction I can only lay the matter before you, assured that
it will receive the action needed. If the place were still within my
department the evidence to my mind is so clear and the culpability of
the officers so flagrant that I should not hesitate to-take the responsibil
ity of relieving the loyal residents of the island from the incubus of
having such unfit men in positions so powerful for evil.
From all the evidence before me, evidence extending back to my
earliest connection with this department, and constantly increasing in
volume and directness, I have been forced to regard Judge Marvin as a
man in active sympathy with the rebellion, and who is only restrained
from taking sides avowedly with treason by the consideration that he
can best serve it under the violated sanctity of the United States
ermine.
I have received evidence which I cannot mistrust that there is now
in the hands of certain leading secessionists at Key West either a duly
certified copy or the original of a letter from Judge Marvin to the rebel
authorities at Montgomery, written in the early part of the rebellion,
stating that he only held the United States court at Key West until
they should have nominated and sent his successor, and there is proof
CHAP. XXVI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. UNION. 433
wholly incontestable that when a certain official, publicly claiming to
be the Confederate States judge, appeared at Key West Judge Marvin,
though urged to do so, failed to issue a warrant for his arrest, but on
the contrary publicly consorted with the traitor in social relations and
opposed no obstacle to his leaving the island. His whole course has
been a consistent effort to shield traitors (active and passive) from the
due operations of the law, and to keep open communication between
the rebellion and its chief entrepots at Nassau, Havana, and elsewhere
via Key West. To the loyal residents he has been an oppressor; to
the traitorous residents and messengers a shield. My respect for his
station made me long reluctant to take this view of his character, but
more recent developments left me no possibility of doubt, and it had
been my intention to have arrested him and sent him North under guard
as a public enemy on his return to Key West but for the order taking
that island from my department and attaching it to that of the Gulf, to
which (geographically) it more properly belongs.
In regard to Mr. Boynton, United States district attorney, I know
little, except that I have before me a letter of his stating that he had
advised all the residents of Key West "to resist to the death" an order
issued from these headquarters — an order issued after the most mature
and even painful consideration and in view of the most serious danger
to Key West from enemies without its limits assisted by enemies within.
I am unwilling to think of Mr. Boynton more harshly than that he
allowed himself to be too softly molded to Judge Marvin's purposes,
and that his judgment had been biased and clouded by those social
influences which throughout our unhappy contest have played in favor
of the rebellion. Mr. Boynton appears to have passed wholly under the
domination of Judge Marvin's will, and while he may not deliberately
ever have harbored a disloyal thought, he was in every instance the
pliant agent and active executive officer of men in full sympathy with
the rebellion.
I have the honor to be, sir, very respectfully, your most obedient
servant,
I). HUNTEK,
Major- General, Commanding.
ENGINEER DEPARTMENT,
Washington, March 31, 1863.
Maj. Gen. D. HUNTER,
Commanding, Headquarters Department of the South :
SIR : Your letter of 20th March is received. I am fully impressed
with the force of your statement that the extent, condition, and impor
tance of *the permanent fortifications within the limits of your depart
ment demand the supervision of an engineer officer. The proper con
duct and care of these works require, I am confident, the services of
several officers of engineers. But there is no officer within my control
that can possibly be spared for this service at present except Lieutenant
McFarland, and I entertain the hop.3 that when this letter reaches you
you will have been able to dispense with his services, and he will again
he at his post at Key West, and directing the operations there and at
Fort Jefferson, to which he has been specially assigned. Lieutenant
Suter, Corps of Engineers, has been placed on duty with you, for the
purpose ot enabling Lieutenant McFarland to resume immediately his,
28 R R — VOL xiy
434
COASTS OF S. C , GA ., AND MID. AND EAST FLA [CHAP. XXVI.
care of the extensive aiid important works at those places which have
been placed in his keeping. Whenever you can dispense with the
services of Captain Duane or Lieutenant Suter I shall be glad to place
the permanent works at Fernandina and other points within the De
partment of the South in their trust, unless, indeed, in the great
urgency which presses upon me for want of engineer officers, some
other point may have claims even more extreme than these shall then
possess.
Respecting armament, it is beyond my power to do more than to bring
the state of readiness of our works in this respect to the knowledge of
the War Department and the Ordnance Office.
I am, &c.,
JOS. G. TOTTED,
Brevet Brigadier- General and Colonel of Engineers.
Abstract from Eeturn of the Department of Hie South, Maj. Gen. David Hunter command
ing, for the month of March, 1863; headquarters Hilton Head, S. C.
Command.
Department staff
Saint Helena Island, S. C. :
First Division, Detachment Eighteenth Army Corps,
Brig. Gen. O. S. Ferry.
Second Division, Detachment Eighteenth Army Corps,
Brig. Gen. C. A. Heckman.
Marine Artillery, Lieut. C. J. Sands
Third New York Artillery, Maj. T. J. Kennedy
Hilton Head, S. C., Brig. Gen'. A. H. Terry
Beaufort, S. C., Brig. Gen. R. Saxton
Fort Pubiski, Ga., Col. W. B. Barton
Ossabaw Island, Ga., Maj. D. A. Allen
Key West and Tortugas, Fla., Col. T. H. Good
Femaudiria. Fla., Col. Joseph R. Hawley
Saint Augustine, Fla , Lieut, Col. J. C. Abbott
En route for Hilton Head, S. C., Col. H. S. Putnam (five
companies).
Present for
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594
1, 607
30 582 *:!'>
899
1,091
17 269 379
402
780
16 319 362
371
Grand total
955
19, 162 23, 385
27, 060
29, 531
Organization of troops in the Department of the South, commanded by Maj.
Gen. David Hunter, March 31, 1863 ; headquarters Hilton Head, S. G.
SAINT HELENA ISLAND, S. C.
+
First Division, Detachment Eighteenth Army Corps.
Brig. Gen. ORRIS S. FERRY commanding.
First Brigade.
Brig. Gen. T. G. STEVENSON commanding.
23d Massachusetts
9th New Jersey.
81 st New York.
98th New York.
Second Brigade.
Col. W. W. H. DAVIS commanding.
10th Connecticut.
24th Massachusetts.
52d Pennsylvania.
104th Pennsylvania.
CHAP. XXVI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. UNION.
Second Division, Detachment Eighteenth Army Corps.
Brig. Gen. C. A. HECKMAN commanding.
435
First Brigade.
Col. J. J. DE FOREST commanding.
llth Maine.
100th New York,
independent Battalion, New York.
Second Brigade.
Col. J. B. HOWELL commanding.
56th New York.
85th Pennsylvania.
Third Brigade.
Col. T. O. OSBORN commanding.
39th Illinois.
62d Ohio.
67th Ohio.
Not brigaded.
Marine Artillery (detachment), Lieut. C. J. Sands.
3d New York Artillery, Maj. T. J. Kennedy.
HILTON HEAD, S. C.
Detachment Tenth Army Corps.
Brig. Gen. A. H. TERRY commanding.
3d New Hampshire.
115th New York.
76th Pennsylvania.
97th Pennsylvania.
1st Massachusetts Cavalry, Company M.
3d Rhode Island Artillery.
3d U. S. Artillery, Battery E.
1st New York Engineers.
FORT PULASKI, GA.
48th New York, Col. W. B. Barton.
3d Rhode Island Artillery, Company G.
1st New York Engineers, Company F.
KEY WEST AND TORTUGAS, FLA.
90th New York, Col. J. S. Morgan.
47th Pennsylvania, Col. T. H. Good.
SAINT AUGUSTINE, FLA.
7th New Hampshire (five companies),
Lieut. Col. J. C. Abbott.
BEAUFORT, S. C.
Detachment Tenth Army Corps.
Brig. Gen. R. SAXTON commanding.
1st Connecticut Battery.
6th Connecticut.
8th Maine.
4th New Hampshire.
55th Pennsylvania.
174th Pennsylvania.
176th Pennsylvania.
1st Massachusetts Cavalry, Third Bat
talion.
1st U. S. Artillery, Batteries D and M.
OSSABAW ISLAND, GA.
47th New York, Maj. D. A. Allen.
Detachment First New York Engineers.
FERNANDINA, FLA.
7th Connecticut, Col. Joseph R. Hawley.
EN ROUTE FOR HILTON HEAD, S. C.
7th New Hampshire (five companies), Col.
H. S. Putnam.
EXECUTIVE MANSION,
Washington, D. C., April 1, 1863.
Major-General HUNTER :
MY DEAR SIR : I am glad to see the accounts of your colored force
at Jacksonville, Fla. I see the enemy are driving at them fiercely, as
is to be expected. It is important to the enemy that such a force shall
not take shape and grow and thrive in the South, and in precisely the
436 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA [CHAP. XXVI.
same proportion it is important to us that it shall. Hence the utmost
caution and vigilance is necessary on our part. The enemy will make
extra efforts to destroy them, and we should do the same to preserve
and increase tbem.
Yours, truly,
A. LINCOLN.
NAVY DEPARTMENT, Apfil 2, 1863.
Bear-Admiral S. F. DuPoNT,
Comdg. South Atlantic Blockading Squadron, Port Royal, S. C. :
SIR : The exigencies of the public service are so pressing in the Gulf
that the Department directs you to send all the iron-clads that are
in a fit condition to move, after your present attack upon Charleston,
directly to New Orleans, reserving to yourself only two.
Very respectfully,
GIDEON WELLES,
Secretary of the Navy.
NAVY DEPARTMENT, April 2, 1863.
Bear-Admiral S. F. DuPoNT,
Comdg. South Atlantic Blockading Squadron, Port Royal, S. C. :
DEAR ADMIRAL: Matters are at a stand-still on the Mississippi
River, and the President was with difficulty restrained from sending
off Hunter and all the iron-clads directly to New Orleans, the opening
of the Mississippi being considered the principal object to be attained.
It is, however, arranged, as you will see by to-day's order, that you are
to send all the iron-clads that survive the attack upon Charleston im
mediately to New Orleans, reserving for your squadron only two. We
must abandon all other operations on the coast where iron-clads are
necessary to a future time. We cannot clear the Mississippi River
without the iron-clads, and as all the supplies come down the Red River
that stretch of the river must be in our possession. This plan has been
agreed upon after mature consideration and seems to be imperative.
With my sincere prayers in your behalf, my dear admiral, I remain,
sincerely, yours,
G. Y. FOX.
HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE SOUTH,
On board the Ben De Ford, North Edisto River, April 3, 1863.
Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLECK,
General-in-Chief U. S. Army, Washington, D. C.:
GENERAL: I have the honor to report that one-half the command
intended to co-operate with the Navy in the joint attack upon Charles
ton is now safely in this vicinity, on Cole's and North Edisto Islands,
and that the remainder, at the time of my leaving Hilton Head this
forenoon, were partially embarked and ready to sail. It is possible
they may be detained a day or two by a violent easterly storm, which
sprang up late this afternoon ; but as the Navy cannot move until the
storm, which may detain them, has fully subsided, the possible delay
is not material. I have seen Admiral DuPont this afternoon, and find
CHAP. XXVI.) CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. — UNION. 437
that he is merely awaiting fine weather, all his preparations being com
plete in so far as the means at his disposal will permit. On the first
day that is clear and calm he will move into action.
I have the honor to be, general, with the highest esteem, your very
obedient servant,
D. HUNTER,
Major- General, Commanding.
IRONSIDES, April 8, 1863.
Maj. Gen. D. HUNTER:
MY DEAR GENERAL : I attempted to take the bull by the horns, but
he was too much for us. These monitors are miserable failures where
forts are concerned ; the longest was one hour and the others forty-
five minutes under fire, and five of the eight were wholly or partially
disabled.
I write this to say that the Flambeau will leave this morning, or as
soon as you may be ready, for Fortress Monroe. She has very small
accommodations, but if you desire to send a staff officer home I will
direct Captain Upshur to give him a passage.
I have sent the Patapsco to help take care of Port Royal.
1 am, general, yours, most truly,
S. F. DuPONT.
HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE SOUTH,
U. S. Transport Ben De Ford, April 8, 1863.
Admiral S. F. DuPoNT,
Steamship New Ironsides, off Fort Sumter :
ADMIRAL : Not knowing yet what have been the results of your at
tack of yesterday, so far as Fort Sumter is concerned, I cannot but con
gratulate you on the magnificent manner in which the vessels under
•your command were fought. A mere spectator, I could do nothing but,
pray for you, which, believe me, I did most heartily, for you and for all
the gallant men under your command who sailed so calmly and fear
lessly into and under and through a concentric fire which has never
heretofore had a parallel in the history of warfare. That you are unin
jured and so many of your vessels still fit for service is a cause of deep
gratitude to Almighty God. I confess when the Weehawken first ran
under Sumter's guns, receiving the casemate and barbette broadsides
from that work simultaneously with the similar broadsides from Fort
Moultrie and all the other works within range, I fairly held my breath
until the smoke had cleared away, not expecting to see a vestige of -the
little vessel which had provoked such an attack, With each of the
others the same scene was re-enacted, my interest in the fate of the
Ironsides being perhaps the keenest from- the knowledge of her com
parative vulnerability and of the deep loss the country would sustain
if anything were to happen to you.
Thank God for the results so far as they go, and may He have you
in His keeping through whatever chances are .yet before you. No
country can ever fail that has men capable of facing what your irori-clads
had yesterday to endure. God bless you and keep you safe, admiral,
438 COASTS OF s. c., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA.
and believe me, with the highest esteem, ever your true friend and
servant,
D. HUNTER,
Major- General.
p. s. — I sincerely trust Captain Rodgers is also unharmed.
FLAG-SHIP NEW IRONSIDES,
Charleston Harbor, S. C., April 8, 1863.
Maj. Gen. D. HUNTER,
ComOg. Department of the South, off Charleston:
GENERAL : I am this moment in receipt of your most gratifying letter
of this date. I did not, however, require this to satisfy me of your deep
sympathy in our operations of yesterday, intensified by the fact that
circumstances beyond your control prevented that which of all things
you would most have desired — an immediate and active co operation. I
shall have your letter rend on every iron-clad of this fleet, so that every
man under my command shall know, what has long been familiar to me,
the heartfelt sympathy of the commanding general of the Army of the
Department of the South.
I am, general, with the highest respect, your most obedient servant,
S. F. DuPONT,
Rear- Admiral, Commanding.
IRONSIDES, April 9. 1863.
Major-General HUNTER,
Commanding Department of the South:
MY DEAR GENERAL : I have nothing of an official character to com
municate. I am lingering here to destroy theKeokuk, and waiting for
the, 'tides to carry this ship over the bar. In the mean time they are
building batteries around us.
I desire to thank you for that glorious letter you wrote me. You can
hardly imagine the effect it had upon the officers and men who were
around me when it came. You must not be surprised if you see it in
print, and must put it updVi my officers and not upon me for bejug there,
though I felt it not less than any of them I can truly say.
I feel very comfortable, general, for the reason that a merciful Provi
dence permitted me to have a failure instead of a disaster, and if I had
ever entertained for a moment any misgiving as to my course the dis
patches just handed me would remove" it.
1 find the President is greatly alarmed about things on the Missis
sippi, and I am directed to send all the iron-clads immediately to Pen-
saeola except two.
In great haste, not to detain Colonel Fessenden, gratefully, your friend,
S. F/ DuPONT.
SPECIAL ORDERS, ) HDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF THE SOUTH,
^o. 189. | Mono Inlet, April 11, 1863.
I. General Orris S. Ferry will proceed to Hilton Head, with his staff,
there to await further orders.
CHAP. XXVI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. UNION. 439
II. General A. H. Terry's division will return to Port Royal Harbor.
Its disposition will be made in further orders.
III. The Seventh Regiment Connecticut Volunteers, Colonel Hawley,
will return immediately to Fernandina, Fla.
IV. The Seventh Regiment New Hampshire Volunteers, Colonel Put
nam, will return immediately to Saint Augustine, Fla.
V. The One hundredth Regiment New York Volunteers, Colonel
Dandy, will garrison Cole's Island, reporting to Brigadier-General
Vogdes, Folly Island.
VI. The four regiments of Brigadier-General Vogcles' brigade will
occupy Folly Island, and Brigadier-General Vogdes is hereby placed in
command of all the forces that are to remain in the Stono River and in
its vicinity. Captain Jeriney's company, Third Regiment New York Ar
tillery, and Captain Cruso's company Volunteer Engineers, will remain
on Folly Island with General Vogdes.
VII. Brigadier-General Stevenson's brigade will occupy Edisto Island.
Lieutenant Morrison's company Third New York Artillery, and Cap
tain Walker's company Volunteer Engineers, will remain on Edisto
Island, reporting to General Stevenson.
VIII. The Artillery Brigade, Colonel Metcalf, is disposed of as fol
lows: The Third Regiment Rhode Island Artillery will proceed to Hil
ton Head, the Third 'New York Artillery (foot) to Beaufort, S. C.
IX. The Third New York Artillery batteries, Lieutenant Thomas and
Captain Angel, will proceed to Saint Helena.
X. The detachment of Marine Artillery, now on cluty in this depart
ment, will proceed to Saint Helena Island, there to be mustered out of
service.
* ***** *
By command of Maj. Gen. D. Hunter :
CHAS. G. HALPINE,
Lieut. Col. and A. A. G., Tenth Army Corps, Dept. South.
HEADQUARTERS U. S. FORCES,
Secibroo~k Island, S. 0., April 12, 1863.
Lieut. Col. CHARLES G. HALPINE,
Assistant Adjutant- General :
The extract from special orders from Department Headquarters, dated
April 11, which I have just received, states that " Brigadier-General Ste
venson will occupy Edisto Island. Lieutenant Morrison's battery Third
Regiment New York Artillery, and Captain Walker's company Volun
teer Engineers will remain on Edisto Island, reporting to General Ste
venson."
I presume you intend that I shall remain on Seabrook Island, which
I now occupy, 'and therefore shall not move my command to Edisto Island
until I hear further from you.
Captain Walker's company Volunteer Engineers is not here.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
THOS. G. STEVENSON,
Brigadier -General, U. S. Volunteers, Commanding.
p. S._ The enemy continue to annoy our pickets. Yesterday they
wounded, it is feared fatally, Sergeant [George S.] Peach, of Company
B, Twenty-fourth Regiment Massachusetts Volunteers.
440 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVl.
[Indorsement.]
Write to General Stevenson that his interpretation of special orders
is correct, and that Edistois a clerical mistake, Seabrook having- been
intended. Say that Walker's company will be sent to him, and order it
to be sent. Also order 25 cavalry to Folly Island to report to Briga
dier-General Vogdes, 1 lieutenant, 2 sergeants, 4 corporals, and 18 en
listed men.
0. G. H.
SPECIAL ORDERS, ) HDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF THE SOUTH,
No. 190. | Hilton Head, Port Royal, S. C., April 12, 1863.
It having been officially represented to the major-general command
ing by Brigadier-General Heckman, Maj. Solomon Giles, Third New
Fork Artillery, and Capt. H. W. Hntchings, of the staff of Brigadier-
General Stevenson, that Major-General Foster, commanding Depart
ment of North Carolina, is besieged and in danger of being captured by
the enemy at Washington, N. C., Brigadier-General Heckman, U. S.
Volunteers, is hereby ordered to proceed with his brigade, consisting of
the following regiments: Ninth New Jersey, Twenty-third Massachu
setts, Eighty-first New York, and Ninety eighth New York, to New Berne,
N. C., where he will report to Brigadier General Palmer, or whoever may
be the general in command, for service in the relieving of Major-General
Foster. This duty executed, or it being found that Major-General Fos
ter has been already relieved, Brigadier-General Heckman will forthwith
return with his command to this department.
By command of Maj. Gen. D. Hunter:
ED. W. SMITH,
Assistant Adjutant- General.
EXECUTIVE MANSION,
Washington, April 13, 1863.
Admiral DuPoNT:
Hold your position inside the bar near Charleston, or if you shall
have left it, return to it, and hold it till further orders. Do not allow
the enemy to erect new batteries or defenses on Morris Inland. If he
has begun it, drive him out. I do not herein order yon to renew the
general attack. That is to depend on your own discretion or a further
order.
A. LINCOLN.
WAR DEPARTMENT,
Washington, April 13, 1863— 3.50 p. m.
Major-General HUNTER,
Department of the South :
Dispatches have been sent to Admiral DuPont to continue operations
against Charleston. You will co-operate with your forces with Ad
miral DuPont as you and he may deem best. It is the President's desire
that these operations be continued.
H. W. HALLECK,
Gencral-in- Chief.
CHAP. XXVI.1 CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. UNION. 441
EXECUTIVE MANSION,
Washington, April 14, 1863.
General HUNTER and Admiral DuPoNT:
This is intended to clear up an apparent inconsistency between the re
cent order to continue operations before Charleston and the former one
to remove to another point in a certain contingency. No censure upon
you or either of you is intended. We still hope that by cordial and
judicious co-operation you can take the batteries on Morris Island and
Sullivan's Island and Fort Sumter. But whether you can or not. we
wish the demonstration kept up for a time for a collateral and very im
portant object. We wish the attempt to be a real one (though not a
desperate one) if it affords any considerable chance of success. But if
prosecuted as a demonstration only this must not become public, or the
whole effect will be lost. Once again before Charleston do not leave
till further orders from here. Of course this is not intended to force
you to leave unduly exposed Hilton Head or other near points in your
charge.
Yours, truly,
A. LINCOLN.
P. S. — Whoever receives this first please send a copy to the other
immediately.
HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE SOUTH,
Hilton Head, S. <7., April 15, 1863.
Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLECK,
Qeneral-m- Chief U. S. Army, Washington, D. C.:
GENERAL, : I have the honor to transmit herewith certified copy of
the official notice served upon me by Admiral S. F. DuPont of his in
tention to withdraw the iron-clad squadron from the attack upon Charles
ton:
Without desiring to go over the ground which General Seymour, my
chief of staff, has doubtless already explained to you in full by word of
mouth, I have the honor to report that Stevenson's brigade of 2,000 men
occupies Seabrook Island, commanding Edisto Harbor, and that the
Stono Inlet is held by the brigade of General Vogdes on Folly Island,
with one regiment on Cole's Island.
The remaining troops of the recent expedition returned safely to Port
Royal Harbor without the loss of a man or a pound of stores. The troops
are in good spirits, regarding the postponement of the expedition as
merely a brief delay while certain necessary alterations and repairs of
the iron-clads are being made.
On my return here I found officers from North Carolina, who repre
sented urgently and earnestly that Major-General Foster, with 1,GOO
men, was besieged in Washington, N. p., and in danger of being cap
tured by General Hill, of the rebel service, who was said to have 15,000
men between Washington and New Berne. It was further represented
that T.,000 men had been collected by General Palmer and were march
ing to General Foster's relief, thus reducing the garrisons of New Berne
and Morehead City and several other important posts to an aggregate
of less than 3,000 men. Under these circumstances, having no imme
diate need of General Heck man's brigade, consisting of four regiments,
I assumed the responsibility of dispatching that brigade to New Berne,
with orders to take part in the service of relieving Major-General Fos-
442 COASTS OF S..C., GA., AND MIt). AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVI.
ter and then to return immediately to this department. I need not add
that in this order I was actuated solely by sincere anxiety for the pub
lic interests in North Carolina.
I have the honor to be, general, with the highest esteem, your most
obedient servant,
D. HUNTER,
Major- General, Commanding.
[Inclosttre.]
FLAG-SHIP NEW IRONSIDES,
Inside of Charleston Bar, April 8, 1863.
Maj. Gen. D. HUNTER,
Comdg. J)ept. of the South, TL S. 8. Ben De Ford, off Charleston :
GENERAL : The iron-dads weighed anchor at noon yesterday to go
forward to attack Fort Sum ter, but were delayed for nearly two hours
by the accident which fouled the anchor and raft of the leading vessel
(the Weehawken).
The Ironsides became unmanageable in the narrow channel and occa
sioned further delay under fire, so that finding that, I should not reach
the obstructions before 5 o'clock, I ordered the vessels withdrawn from
action, with the intention of renewing it this morning.
During the night I received the statements of the commanding offi
cers, and find the ships so much damaged during their short engagement
as to force me to the conviction that they could not endure the fire to
which they would be exposed long enough to destroy Fort Sumter or
reach Charleston. I am now satisfied that that place cannot be taken
by a purely naval attack, and I am admonished by the condition of the
iron-clads that a persistence in our efforts would end in disaster, and
might cause us to leave some of our iron-clads in the hands of the enemy,
which would render it difficult for us to hold those parts ef the coast
which are now in our possession.
1 have therefore determined to withdraw my vessels, and have written
to the Navy Department to that effect.
I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
S. F. DyPONT,
Read-Admiral, Comdg. South Atlantic Blockading Squadron.
HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE SOUTH,
Hilton Head, S. C., April 15, 1863.
Brigadier-General VOGDES,
Commanding Folly Island, &c. :
GENERAL : The troops under your command will be embarked with
as little delay as possible and returned to this place.
Before commencing your retrograde movement you will see that every
pound of public property is perfectly secure on shipboard. The gun
boats will cover your embarkation, and with proper care the movement
should be made without the loss of a man or a pound of property. The
quartermaster's department will furnish ample transportation.
Do not let any of the transports leave the river in bad weather.
Very respectfully, your most obedient servant,
D. HUNTEE,
Major- General, Commanding.
(Same to Brigadier- General Stevenson.)
CHAP. XXVI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. — UNION. 443
HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE SOUTH,
Hilton Head, 8. C., April 10, 1863.
Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLECK,
General-in-Chief U. IS. Army, Washington, D. C. :
GENERAL: I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt this morn
ing of your special telegraphic instructions, via Fortress Monroe, dated
3.50 p. in., April 13, 1803, informing me that by order of the President
orders have been sent to Admiral DuPont to continue operations against
Charleston, and directing nie to co-operate with the admiral as may be
agreed upon between us.
In accordance with these instructions I have the honor to inform you
that a portion of the late expeditionary force is now en route to re-enforce
the brigades of General Vogdes, occupying Folly Island and the Stono,
and General Stevenson, holding Seabrook Island and the Edisto, and
that the balance of the expeditionary force (less the brigade of General
Heckman, sent to relieve Major-General Foster at Washington, N. C.,
five companies of the Seventh Connecticut returned to Femandina, and
five companies of the Seventh New Hampshire returned to Saint Augus
tine) will be at the scene of operations within three days from this date.
I have the honor to be, general, most respectfully, your obedient
servant,
D. HUNTER,
Major- General, Commanding.
HDQRS. OF THE TROOPS ON THE STONO, S. C.,
Folly Island, April 16, 1803.
Col. CHARLES G. HALPINE,
Assistant A djutant- General :
COLONEL : I have the honor to report that, in compliance with Orders,
No. — , from Headquarters Department of the South, I assumed com
mand on the llth of April.
During the night of the 10th and llth an attack was made "upon a
small force at. the north end of the island, in which we had one man
mortally wounded and one man taken prisoner.
Colonel Dandy, of the One hundredth New York, was stationed at
that point, acting under special orders from General Seymour. As the
affair occurred previous to my having assumed command I inclose
Colonel Dandy's report.* Since that time the enemy has been extend
ing and strengthening his pickets, but has not ventured to attack.
The line required to be defended is 7 miles in length, and, with the
exception of the east beach at low tide, entirely without communication.
I have endeavored to make the best disposition of the limited number
of troops at my disposal in order to meet any attack of the enemy. I
may be attacked either at the north end of the island through Light-
House Inlet, or by troops embarking in boats of light draught and de
scending the numerous tributaries of the Folly, or finally by a com
bined attack of the enemy descending the Stouo with a naval force, and
at the same time attacking my line and naval force when of necessity it
will be deprived of the co-operation of that important auxiliary to its
defense.
The great difficulty in the defense is the great length of the line in
proportion to the number of troops, the absence of any practicable
* See p. 284.
444 COASTS OF S. 0., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVI.
roads, and the want of mobility of my artillery. I am anxiously await
ing the arrival of the horses for the section of the Wiard battery, which
will add greatly to the strength of my position.
If possible I "should desire to have both, or one of the other sections
of the battery, mounted. Finding that the naval forces could not
render me the desired assistance in case of an attack and at the same
time attend to Cole's Island, I yesterday withdrew Colouel Dandy's
regiment to this island, to the defense of which I deem it necessary, and
in the mean time the naval forces here promise to prevent the island
from being occupied by the enemy. I shall write to you again, explain
ing fully my views? as to the best means of defending this station. My
dispositions have necessarily to be modified from day to day until I can
open communication and supply my troops.
The Sixty-second Ohio, Thirty-ninth Illinois, and one-half of the Sixty-
seventh Ohio, Captain Jenney's battery Third New York Artillery, and
Captain Cruso's company of Volunteer Engineers are stationed at the
north end of the island. The remainder of Colonel Voris' regiment will
join them to-day. Colonel Dandy's regiment will be stationed at a point
intermediate as soon as the horses are landed and a road can' be opened.
At present it and Colonel Howell's regiment (Eighty-fifth Pennsylvania
Volunteers) are encamped near Plantation House. Five companies
occupy the extreme end of the island, under the command of Lieuten
ant-Colonel Steele, of the Thirty-ninth Illinois [Sixty-second Ohio?].
Colouel Steele reports having found two elastic boats connecting with
the other shore, which for some reason were destroyed by our troops
without orders. I have not yet learned the particulars.
I regret to have to report the death of Captain Eodgers, of the Sixty-
second Ohio Regiment, on the night of the 13th. The captain was un
fortunately shot by one of our own pickets. I have not yet received
full particulars of the unfortunate occurrence. I hope to do so in time
for my next.
I have sent Lieutenant Vidal to headquarters to endeavor to make
some arrangements for telegraphing along niy present line. It is not
necessary, colonel, for me to state how important it is that I should be
able to promptly communicate with any point of my line. The safety
of the whole command may depend upon it. I hope you will furnish
Mr. Vidal the means for so doing.
The number and variety of my present duties must be my excuse for
not making a more full report at present.
• I. VOGDES,
Brigadier- General Volunteers, Commanding.
HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE SOUTH,
Hilton Head, S. C., April 16, 1863.
Brigadier General VOGDES,
Commanding Folly Island, &c., 8. C :
GENERAL : The orders for your withdrawal are hereby countermanded,
and you will remain where you are. Should re-enforcements become
necessary to secure your position they will be sent immediately. Send
the transportation back to this post at once.
Very respectfully, your most obedient servant,
D. HUNTER,
Major- General, Commanding.
(Same to General Stevenson.)
CHAP. XXVI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. UNION. 445
HEADQUARTERS STONO INLET, S. 0.,
April 17, 1863.
Lieut. Col. CHARLES G. HALPINE,
A. A. 0., Tenth A. C., Dept. of the South, Hilton Head, S. C. :
COLONEL : Since my letter of yesterday I have nothing particular to
report, except that a short artillery practice took place between the
gunboat McDonough and some batteries of the enemy placed on the
right of the branch of the Folly, which joins that river near Plantation
House. The enemy's guns were of too light caliber to do us any in
jury. All of the shots fell short.
l^will again urge upon the general commanding the absolute neces
sity of furnishing me with horses and harness tor ray artillery. At
present it is entirely wanting in mobility, and without that attribute it
is exceedingly doubtful whether it is an element of strength or of weak
ness. My dispositions have necessarily to be made under the hypo
thesis of my batteries being fixed, and but little or no field is left for
maneuvering.
I have necessarily to anticipate each and all possible means of attack
and as far as possible devise means to repulse them. I must also urge
upon the general commanding the great necessity of increasing the
naval force within the inlet. Should the enemy attack the present weak
naval force in the Stono all of it will necessarily have to be concen
trated at the mouth of the Folly, and my flank for the extent of 7 miles
will only be guarded by a thin line of grand guard.
I hope therefore that the naval force may be increased ; also that
horses and harness and two additional regiments of infantry may be
sent me at as early a date as possible.
I have the honor to be, yours, &c.,
I. VOGDES,
Brigadier- General, Vo lunteers.
HEADQUARTERS STONO INLET,
Folly Island. S. C., April 20, 1863.
Lieut. Col. CHARLES G. HALPINE,
A. A. G., Tenth Army Corps, Dept. of the South, Hilton Head, 8. C. :
COLONEL : Since mine of the 18th nothing of importance has occurred
at this station. The enemy has been unusually quiet. He is construct
ing works on the south end of Morris Island, and has a line of vedettes
in the woods, *about 2,000 yards on our left. 1 am inclined to the opin
ion that nothing but a thin line of the Mounted Kaugers (militia) are
on our left. Still, we are so near to Charleston and the woods so com
pletely screen his movements, that he can throw at any time a very
considerable force of infantry along his line without our being able to
discover it.
I venture to suggest the propriety of sending one of the iron-clads or
monitors to guard the Stouo and collecting the other ships at or near
the mouth of the Folly.
A work, if we had any heavy Parrott guns, so as to command the
mouth of the Folly, might be constructed, thus securing the vessels in
the Folly.
I renew my request to have the whole of the Ward battery mounted ;
also for the two additional regiments of infantry.
I have the honor to be, yours, truly,
I. YOGDES,
Brigadier- General, Volunteers,
44fi COASTS OF S. C , GA., AND MID AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVI
HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE SOUTH,
April 22, 1863.
Brig. Gen. ISRAEL VOGDES,
Commanding U. 8. Forces, Stono Eiver :
GENERAL: Your letters and reports up to and inclusive of the 20th
instant have been duly received.
With respect to increasing the naval force in the Stono, it is a point
upon which Admiral DuPont, who alone can direct such increase, has
not yet been consulted. But it is not probable that any additional
vessels will be sent, in view of movements now pending.
No iron-clad, it is understood, can be put into the Stono, and it is
considered a certainty that none of the enemy's irou-clads can pass
through Wappoo into the Stono on account of insufficient water, and
as equally certain that no other naval force is likely to molest you by
that route.
A work at the mouth of Folly River seems undesirable just now. The
object is simply to hold Folly Island, without attracting too much at
tention to it, until projected operations can be recommenced. The
initial movements in these operations have already been made, and you
may soon expect such force at Stono as will make anything beyond
actual possession unnecessary.
It is essential that the north end of Folly Island be securely held, yet
quietly.
Respectfully, general, your obedient servant,
T. SEYMOUR,
Brigadier- General, Chief of Staff.
HEADQUARTERS DISTRICT OF THE STONO,
Folly Island, S. C., April 24, 1863.
Brig. Gen. TRUMAN SEYMOUR,
Chief of Staff, Hilton Head, S. C.:
GENERAL: Your communication of the 23d instant has just been re
ceived. In reply I have to state that the north end of the island is
held by live companies.
I Lave not erected any works there, as they might attract too much
attention, and if unfortunately lost would serve to strengthen the
enemy. At the position formerly occupied by Colonel. Dandy's regi
ment I have thrown up slight ritie pits, in order to afford a shelter for.
the supporting force of the troops at the upper end of the island.
I have cut a road through the island flanking the west beach, so as to
afford secure and concealed communication with Plantation House and
the north end of the island. This road will be in complete order in a
few days.
I do not think that the enemy has so far been able to divine either
our design or strength. He is strengthening his position at the south
end of Morris Island ; he is constructing an extensive line near the
lookout at Secessiouville. With this exception he appears to have
abandoned, work, and to have only a line of vedettes extending through
the woods which bound our horizon on the west. In fact soine move
ments on his part appear to me to indicate a movement toward Edisto.
Naval men entertain the opinion that by lightening the iron-dads
and by using mechanical means they can be forced through the Wappoo
Channel. But since the arrival of the monitors at Edisto I do not deem it
CHAP. XXVI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. UNION. 447
probable that the enemy will venture to withdraw theirs from Charles
ton. They were seen in Charleston Harbor yesterday morning.
In respect to the work at the mouth of the Folly, my idea was simply to
erect a battery of two heavy Parrott rifle guns, to afford assistance to the
naval forces against any unexpected attack.
Such work would be of little or no account unless guns of the heaviest
caliber can be spared to arm it.
I am confident of holding my position against any land force that the
enemy can bring, provided I am not deprived of the assistance of the
McDonough to cover my left flank.
I have the honor to be, general, yours, truly.
I. YOGDES,
Brigadier- General, Volunteers.
HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE SOUTH,
Hilton Head, 8. C., April 25, 1863.
His Excellency ABRAHAM LINCOLN,
President of the United States :
MY DEAR SIR : I break a long silence to thank you for the comfort
and hope conveyed in the speech of Adjutant-General Thomas, delivered
in Louisiana on the arming of the negroes, and in the order (General
Orders, No. 89, current series) dismissing dishonorably Lieut. J. M.
Garland, of the Forty-second New York State Volunteers, from the
service, which he stood ready to betray whenever opportunity offered.
Believe me that I exaggerate nothing in saying that these indications
of a thoroughly vigorous war policy, with all its necessary consequences,
are more than sufficient to compensate for any temporary reverses sus
tained in the field or on the water. They assure me that you have at
length done that which it would be well for the country if you had done
much earlier — taken the control of affairs into your own strong, honest
hands, compelling all the resources of the country to move together to
one definite and glorious object under the guidance of a single will.
That you should long have hesitated before assuming the responsi
bility of this step I do not wonder. Arrayed against you were all the
clique prejudices of the two professions, Army and Navy ; and in mat
ters involving to so great an extent human life and the hopes of the
country it was but natural that you should at first prefer trusting to
those who claimed to be oracles in the science of making war. These
oracles failing, however, to realize their predictions, and you having
now two years' experience to guide the innate sagacity and clear pur
poses of your mind, I believe with my whole heart that you will prove
your own best adviser; and I hail the emphatic speech of General
Thomas, made by your authority and in your name, as the first clear
ray from a brighter dawn that lies before us. In the routine and details
of both Army and Navy technical or professional knowledge is very
desirable, but in the great elements of combination and direction com
mon ,sense, fearlessly applied to existing facts, will afford the safest
guidance.
I have now to beg that the same powers given to General Thomas
may be conferred upon me, and that I may have liberty to organize
colored regiments and commission their officers, and that I may have
authority to deal promptly and finally with all officers who oppose a
vigorous prosecution of the war or any of its necessary measures. You
448 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVI.
can safely trust mo with the powers given to General Thomas, and I
respectfully beg your early attention to this matter.
With kind regards to Mrs. Lincoln, believe me, my dear sir, with the
highest respect, your very obedient servant and friend,
D. HUNTER,
Major- General.
HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE SOUTH,
Hilton Head, Port Royal, S. C., April 25, 1863.
Hon. B. M. STANTON,
Secretary of War, Washington :
SIR : I have the honor to inclose you a copy of a letter to Jefferson
Davis.
Hoping it will meet your approval, I have the honor to be, very re
spectfully, your most obedient,
D. HUNTER,
Major- General.
[Inclosnre.]
HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE SOUTH,
Hilton Head, S. C., April 23, 1863.
JEFFERSON DAVIS, Richmond, Va. :
The United States flag must protect all its defenders, white, black,
or yellow. Several negroes in the employ of the Government in the
Western Department have been cruelly murdered by your authorities
and others sold into slavery. Every outrage of this kind against the
laws of war and humanity which may take place in this department
shall be followed by the immediate execution of the rebel of highest
rank in my possession. Man for man, these executions will certainly
take place for every one sold into a slavery worse than death. On
your authorities will rest the responsibility of having inaugurated this
barbarous policy, and you will be held responsible in this world and in
the world to come for all the blood thus shed.
In the mouth of August last you declared all those engaged in arm
ing the negroes to fight for their country to be felons, and directed
the immediate execution of all such as should be captured. I have
given you long enough to reflect on your folly. I now give you notice
that unless this order is immediately revoked I will at once cause the
execution of every rebel officer and every rebel slaveholder in my pos
session. This sad state of things may be kindly ordered by an all-wise
Providence to induce the good people of the North to act earnestly
and to realize that they are at war. Thousands of lives may thus be
saved.
The poor negro is fighting for liberty in its truest sense, and Mr.
Jefferson has beautifully said, "In such a war there is no attribute
of the Almighty which will induce him to fight on the side of the
oppressor."
You say you are fighting for liberty. Yes, you are fighting for lib
erty—liberty to keep 4,000,000 of your fellow-beings in ignorance and
degradation ; liberty to separate parents and children, husband and wife,
brother and sister; liber. y to steal the products of their labor, exacted
with many a cruel lash and bitter tear; liberty to seduce their wives and
daughters, and to sell your own children into bondage; liberty to kill
CHAP. XXVI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. UNION. 449
these children with impunity, when the murder cannot be proven by
one of pure white blood. This is the kind of liberty — the liberty to do
wrong — which Satan, chief of the fallen angels, was contending for when
he was cast into hell.
I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your most obedient servant,
D. HUNTER,
Major- General, Commanding.
GENERAL ORDERS, ) HDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF THE SOUTH,
"No. 34. ' | Hilton Head, Port Royal, S. C., April 27, 1863.
The following quarantine regulations for the port of Port Royal, S. C.,
are hereby established, to be put in operation from and after the 10th
day of May, 1863:
I. Hereafter the quarantine ground will be in Saint Helena Sound,
at the place designated by a white buoy and flag.
II. It shall be the duty of the master and pilot of every vessel coming
into this port from this date until further orders (excepting pilot-boats
returning from their ordinary cruising grounds) to hoist a signal for the
health officer and to anchor off the inner buoy, there to remain until
visited by him.
III. It shall be the duty of the health officer, without unnecessary
delay, to visit every vessel made liable to visitation, and ascertain her
sanitary condition and the port from which she sailed, and every ves
sel having1 on board any case of yellow fever, small-pox, cholera, or
other infectious or contagious disease, and also every vessel coming
from Key West, Havana, or any other port where yellow fever may
exist, he shall order to the quarantine ground, there to remain as long
as he may deem proper.
IV. No person shall be allowed to leave ttie vessel until she has been
examined by the health officer, nor will any communication be had with
the vessel until she has been so examined.
Y. The fees of the health officer for visiting, examining, and certify
ing vessels arriving at this port shall be collected from all vessels except
those in Government employ or foreign vessels of war, at the following
rates :
For each vessel from a foreign port $6 50
For all other vessels 2 00
and the money thus collected will be turned over to the medical director
for the use of the general hospitals in this department.
VI. These regulations will be strictly enforced by the health officer.
Should there be any deviation therefrom, or should any of the orders
given by the health officer to such vessels not be strictly carried out,
he will report the fact immediately to the medical director of this de
partment.
VII. Surg. A. Crispell, U. S. Volunteers, is appointed health officer
of this port.
VIII. Any violation of the above regulations will cause the immediate
arrest and imprisonment of the offenders.
By command of Maj. Gen. D. Hunter:
OHAS. G. HALPINE,
Lieut. Col. and A. A. G., 10th A. C. and Dept. of the South,
29 R R — VOL xiv
450 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVI.
FOLLY ISLAND, 8. C., April 28, 1863.
Lieut. Col. CHARLES G, HALPINE,
Assistant Adjutant- General, Dept. of the South:
COLONEL : Since my letter of the 24th instant to General Seymour,
late chief of staff, I have not had anything of immediate importance
to report.
My general ideas of the defense of this island were indicated in my
conversation with Captain Hamilton and Major Duane. The re-en-
forceineuts then asked for I have again to renew the request.
The enemy has lately been enlarging his works on the south end of
Morris Island. He now has several guns in position and an intrenched
rifle pit ; all evidently intended to prevent any movement from this
island against his position.
I should desire to be informed with what view this island is to be
held and. against what attack we should make preparations. As things
appear at present, and so long as there is a threatened movement
against Charleston on the part of the naval and army forces, the enemy
will not probably withdraw any of his means of defense from about
Charleston j but should he become convinced that he has nothing to ap
prehend for his stronghold he will probably bring his means to bear on
the small force now on this island. It is easy for him to transport artil
lery to the south end of Morris Island, to which we could oppose but
inadequate resistance. Under the protection of this artillery lie could
lay a. bridge of boats and land an overwhelming force on this island.
Under such circumstances it would be exceedingly difficult to embark
unless protected by powerful naval batteries.
I have directed a careful survey to be made of the north end of this
island. Should it be the intention of the general to hold this island
permanently I think that a strong field work of the first class should
be erected at the north end of the island. It should be armed with
heavy rifled guns and in sufficient number to overpower any that the
enemy can bring to bear from the opposite side. Such works, with the
naval assistance in the Folly, will enable us to hold the island against
any laud force that the enemy can bring. The north end I think can
with little labor be put in a complete state of defense. I request that
the chief engineer (should the general commanding approve of my idea)
may be sent to confer with me, and that such works as may be deemed
important may be erected under his general supervision.
I have the honor to be, colonel, yours, truly,
I. VOGDES,
Brigadier- General, Commanding.
[First indorsement.]
APRIL 30, 18G3.
To be returned. Respectfully referred to Maj. J. C. Duane for his in
formation and such action as he may see fit.
CHAS. G. HALPINE,
Assistant Adjutant- General.
[Second indorsement.]
If Folly Island is to be permanently occupied I would recommend
that the three schooners loaded with the two 82 pounders and eight
32 pounders, James rifles, and six 30-pounder Parrotts should be or
dered up t litre at once ; that two companies of artillery accompany and
take charge of the artillery. A work to be constructed across the island
CUAP. XXVI.]
CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.— UNION.
451
at the point of woods about If miles from the north end of the island.
This, together with a. block-house near the north end, I think will render
the island secure from an attack in the direction of Morris Island. If
the island is to be abandoned within a few weeks the less material
landed there the better.
Very respectfully,
J. C. DUANE,
Chief Engineer, Department of the South.
FOLLY ISLAND, April 29, 1863.
Col. CHARLES G. HALPINE, Assistant Adjutant- General:
COLONEL : Since writing my letter of yesterday most of my questions
have been answered. I have been recounoitering pretty carefully, and
putting everything together have come to the conclusion that most of
the enemy's forces have been withdrawn Ironi Charleston. I have come
to this conclusion from my not being able to perceive him in any con
siderable force on my flank -from his defensive operations on Morris
Island, and yesterday two papers were sent over, but both of a date
anterior to the one I forwarded to you. I deem that he is unwilling to
let us know what is transpiring. I have endeavored to obtain a late
paper, and shall continue to reconnoiter. Should I obtain a paper I
will forward it you/
I still am of the opinion that if we remain on the island the north end
should be strongly fortified and armed. If we act on the defensive
this is indispensable to the military security of the island. Should we
act offensively against Morris Island it is only by overwhelming the
enemy with our artillery fire that we will be able to effect a landing.
Excuse the haste in which this is written.
I. YOGDES,
Brigadier- General Volunteers, Commanding.
[APRIL 30, 1863. — For Hunter to Stanton, in reference to negro
troops, see Series HI.]
Abstract from Tri-monthly Report of the Department of the South, April 30, 1863.
Station.
Commanding officer.
Enlisted men
for duty.
Folly Island S C
Bri<*. Gen. I. Vogdes
4 204
Seabrook IsHnd S C
Bri01 Gen T G Stevenson
3 286
Hilton Head S C
Brig. Gen. A. H. Terry
3 428
Bri"1 Gen K Saxton
3 598
Fort Pulaski Ga
Col. W. B. Barton
835
Ossabaw Island, Ga
Fernandina Fli
Ma.j. D. A. Allen
Col. Joseph R, Hawley
403
464
Saint Augustine Fla
Col. H. S. Putnam
581
29
Total
16 828
[On April 23, 1803, Brig. Gen. T. Seymour relieved from duty as chief
of stuff and artillery, and ordered to assume command on Folly Island.
That order revolved April 24, and Seymour granted leave of absence on
tntu I inn 1 f»drt \ fir»ti ("<-» t'r»r tliiri"\7 flu via 1
452 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XX VL
HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE SOUTH,
Hilton Head, Port Royal, S. C., May 4, 1863.
Hon. B. M. STANTON,
•Secretary of War, Washington, D. G. :
SIR : I have the honor to request that orders may be immediately
issued for the return to this department of the troops sent under com
mand of Brigadier-General Heckmau, U. S. Volunteers, to the relief of
Maj. Gen. John G. Foster in North Carolina.
These troops were sent under circumstances fully set forth in the spe
cial order, of which certified copy is herewith transmitted ; * and cer
tainly, taking all the surrounding facts into view, it was to have been
fairly hoped that Major-General Foster would not require any orders
from the War Department for their return.
The sending of these troops, from the apprehensions it created in the
minds of the enemy, has been of the utmost service to the Department
of North Carolina, and I have now to beg your interposition that
this volunteered act of assistance upon my part may not be turned to
the detriment of the public service in this department by the failure
of Major-General Foster to appreciate n»y motives and reciprocate
the sentiment of public duty exhibited in sending this brigade to his
relief.
Under orders of the Government to renew active operations against
Charleston, and only waiting from day to day the readiness of the ad
miral (only delayed for the necessary repairs of the irou-clads), I cer
tainly cannot afford to lose permanently from my small command the
services of General Heckman's brigade, more than 2,500 strong. In
sending them I overlooked, in my anxiety for the public interests, the
many and gross discourtesies received from Major-General Foster during
his brief sojourn in this department. I have now to ask of you, confi
dent that my request will be liberally met, that General Foster may be
directed to do justice in this matter and return my brigade.
1 have the honor to be, sir, very respectfully, your most obedient
servant,
D. HUNTEK,
Major- General, Commanding.
[Indorsement. ]
MAY 12, 1863.
Referred to the general-in -chief to make such answer and order as in
his opinion the service may require.
EDWIN M. STANTON,
Secretary of War.
[MAY 4, 1863. — For Hunter to Governor Andrew, in reference to
negro troops, &c., see Series III.]
GENERAL ORDERS, ) HDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF THE SOUTH,
^o. 35. \ Hilton Head, S. C., May 5, 1863.
I. In conformity with section 11 of the act approved July 17, 1862,
entitled "An act to amend the act calling forth the militia to execute the
* See Special Orders, No. 190, p. 440,
CHAP. XXVI.]
CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. UNION.
453
laws of the Union, suppress insurrections, and repel invasions, approved
February 28, 1795, and the acts amendatory thereof, and for other pur
poses," Col. Edwin Metcalf, Third Rhode Island Artillery, is hereby an
nounced as chief of artillery and ordnance of the Tenth Army Corps,
and will be respected and obeyed accordingly.
II. Capt. John Hamilton, Light Company E, Third U. S. Artillery, is
reannounced as chief of artillery of the Department of the South, on
the staff of the major-general commanding department ; and Capt. John
W. Todd, U. S. Ordnance Corps, is reannounced as chief of ordnance
of the Department of the South on the staff of the major-general
commanding; and both Captain Hamilton and Captain Todd, in their
respective branches of the service, will be obeyed and respected accord
ingly. ,
By command of Maj. Gen. D. Hunter :
CHAS. G. HALPINE,
Lieut. Col. and A. A. #., Tenth A. C. and Dept. of the South.
Abstract from, Tri-monthly Report of the Department of the South, May 10, 1863.
Station.
Commanding officer.
Enlisted men
for duty.
Folly Island S C
3 852
Seabrook Island S C
Brigadier-General T. G. Stevenson .
3 071
Hilton Head S. C
Brig. Gen. A. H. Terry
3 526
Beaufort S C
Brig Gen R Saiton
3 523
Fort Pulaski Ga
Col. W. B. Barton
810
Ossabaw Island, Ga
Fernandina Fla ...
Maj. D. A. Allen
Col. II. S. Putnam
403
581
Saint Augustine Fla
Col. Joseph R Hawley
464
Department staff
29
Total
16 259
HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE SOUTH,
Hilton Head, Port Royal, S. C., May 11, 1863.
Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLECK,
General-in- Chief U. S. Army, Washington, D. C. :
GENERAL: I have the honor to transmit herewith for your informa
tion certified copies of a communication addressed by me to Rear- Ad
miral S. F. DuPont, proposing a joint demonstration against Savannah
while awaiting the repair of the iron-clads for a renewal of the attack
upon Charleston, together with Admiral Du Font's reply. I learn un
officially that the last of the iron-clads undergoing repairs will soon be
ready to resume her place in the squadron.
So far as the land forces are concerned, having suffered no loss in
the late expedition, we have been continuously ready to renew the
attack whenever notified by the admiral that his repairs had been com
pleted, and I am of opinion that if the I^avy will open on the enemy's
batteries on the south end of Morris Island (batteries constructed for
the most part since the last attack), thus covering our crossing of Light-
House lulet, Fort Sumter can be reduced from Curamings Point just
as Fort Pulaski was reduced from Goat's Point on Tybee Island j the
proposition being simplified and made more certain in this instance by
454 COASTS OP S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVL
the heavier rifled ordnance (100 and 200 pounders, rifled) now at our
command.
I have the honor to be, general, with the highest esteem, your very
obedient servant,
D. HUNTEB,
Major- General, Commanding.
[Inclosure Xo. 1.]
HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE SOUTH,
Hilton Head, Port Royal, S. C., April 29, 1863.
Admiral S. F. DuPoNT,
Comdg. South Atlantic Blockading Squadron, Flag-ship Wabash :
ADMIRAL : In our last interview I had the honor of submitting to
you a suggestion that a joint demonstration on the Savannah Kiver,
even though merely a demonstration, would have the good effect of
keeping the enemy's coast in alarm and tending to prevent any large
withdrawal of his forces to re-enforce his other armies in Virginia or
the West.
The proposition was that two of the iron-clads should run up the
Savannah Eiver, halting below the obstructions at a distance that
would permit them to shell the enemy's floating battery Georgia, now
penned in and believed to be ashore just above the obstructions, while
a large number of transports, with sufficient men shown on them to
create the impression that a joint attack was about being made, should
be held in rear of your iron-clads.
This proposition I have now to renew, believing that it will materially
help the country's arms in other directions by keeping many thou
sands of the enemy on the alert at Savannah and its surrounding de
fenses.
I have the honor to be, admiral, very respectfully, your most obe
dient servant,
D. HUNTEE,
Major- General, Commanding.
|tn closure No. 2.]
WABASH, April 29, 1863.
Major-General HUNTER, Hilton Head:
GENERAL: I will be better able to reply to your official letter to
morrow when I hear from Edisto.
It strikes me favorably with one exception, that we can do nothing
with the Georgia, I fear, and thus reduce further the moral effect of the
monitors — I mean on account of the distance she will have to be en
gaged at.
I will hurry still more the repairs on the Weehawken, the only
iron-clad here, and can send to Edisto for another. The Passaic goes
North from there to-day under a peremptory order from the Navy De
partment.
Captain Eodgers has gone to Edisto and off Charleston to see how
things are at Morris Island, and I will let you know the result of his
visit to-morrow.
I am, general, yours, most truly,
S. F. DuPONT.
CHAP. XXVI ' CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. UNION. 455
[Inclosure ISTo. 3.]
FLAG-SHIP W ABASH,
Port Royal Harbor, «SY. 0., May 4, 1863.
Maj. Gen. D. HUNTER,
Comdg. Department of the South, Headquarters Hilton Head :
GENERAL : I have delayed several days in replying to your com
munication of the 29th ultimo for reasons set forth in my private note
of that date.
In the mean time I have given tbe subject-matter of your letter mature
consideration, for I am anxious to join you in anything that will pro
mote the ends in view. Yet, general, for the present and until I can
gain some more definite information as to the position of the enemy's
floating battery Georgia and the probability of our being able to do it
the slightest injury, it might not be advisable to proceed, and for the
following reasons:
1st. That nothing but a feint or demonstration can be made against
Savannah.
2d. That which you and I intend merely as a demonstration with a
definite object to accomplish thereby will be considered another repulse
or failure by the rebels.
3d. That if troops follow our iron-dads and do not land it will be
looked upon in the same light at. the North.
Should you see things in the same light I would prefer deferring for
the present operations in that quarter.
I am, general, very respectfully, your most obedient servant,
S. F. DuPONT.
HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE SOUTH,
Hilton Head, Port Royal, S. (7., May 22, 1863.
His Excellency ABRAHAM LINCOLN,
President of the United States :
DEAR SIR: It is more than six weeks since the attack by the iron
clads upon Charleston ; an attack in which from the nature of the plans
of Admiral DuPont the Army had no active part.
On the day of that attack the troops under my command held Folly
Island up to Light-House Inlet. On the morning after the attack we
were in complete readiness to cross Light-House Inlet to Morris Island,
where once established the fall of Smuter would have been as certain
as the demonstration of a problem in mathematics. Aided by a cross-
tire from the Navy the enemy would soon have been driven from Cuin-
miugs Point, and with powerful batteries of 100 and 200 pounder rifle
guns placed there Fort Sumter would have been rendered untenable in
two days' fire. Fort Pulaski was breached and taken from Goat's Point,
on Ty bee Island (a precisely similar proposition), with 32-pounderParrott
guns, 42 pounder James guns, and a few 10-inch columbiads, the 13-
inch mortars used in that bombardment having proved utterly valueless.
I mention these things to show how certain would have been the fall
of Fort Sumter under the fire of the 100 and L'OO pounders rifled now
at my command.
On the afternoon after the iron-clad attack on Fort Sumter the troops
on Folly Island were not only ready to cross Light-House Inlet, but
were almost in the act, the final reconnaissance having been made, the
456 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. (OHAP. XXVI.
boats ready, and the men under arms for crossing, when they were re
called (as I hoped only temporarily) by the announcement of Admiral
DuPont that he bad resolved to retire, and that consequently we could
expect no assistance from the Navy. Immediately the admiral was waited
upon by an officer of rny staff, who represented the forwardness of our
preparations for crossing, the evidently unprepared condition of the
enemy to receive us or drive us back if once our crossing was effected,
while any delay, now that our intentions were remarked, would give the
enemy time to erect upon the southern end of Morris Island, command
ing Light-House Inlet, those works and batteries which he had hereto
fore neglected. To these considerations, earnestly and elaborately
urged, the admiral's answer was that " he would not fire anothre shot."
A lodgment on Morris Island was thus made impossible for us, the
enemy having powerful works on the island, more especially at the
northern end, out of which we could not hope to drive him unless aided
by a cross-fire from the Navy. I therefore determined to hold what we
had got until the admiral should have had time to repair his vessels,
and to this hour we hold every inch of ground on Folly and Cole's and
Seabrook Islands that we held on the day of the expected crossing.
Since then I have exercised patience with the admiral and have pushed
forward my works and batteries on Folly Island with unremitting
diligence ; the enemy meanwhile, now thoroughly aroused to their dan
ger, throwing up works that completely command Light-House Inlet,
on the southern end of Morris Island ; so that the crossing which could
have been effected in a couple of hours and with but little sacrifice six
weeks ago will now involve, whenever attempted, protracted opera
tions and a very serious loss of life. And to what end should this sac
rifice be made without the co-operation of the Navy 1 Even when es
tablished on the southern end of Morris Island, the northern end, with
its powerful works and commanded by the fire of Foils Stimter and
Johnson, would still remain to be possessed. The sacrifice would be of
no avail without the aid of the Navy, and I have been painfully but
finally convinced that from the Navy no such aid is to 1)8 expected.
I fear Admiral DuPout distrusts the iron clad s so much that he has
resolved to do nothing with them this summer, and I therefore most
earnestly beg you to liberate me from those orders to "co-operate with
the Navy" which now tie me down to share the admiral's inactivity.
Remaining in our present situation we do not even detain one soldier
of the enemy from service elsewhere. I am well satisfied that they have
already sent away from Charleston and Savannah all the troops not
absolutely needed to garrison the defenses, and these will have to re
main in the works whether an enemy be in sight or not. Liberate me
from this order to " co operate with the Navy in an attack on Charles
ton" and I will immediately place a column of 10,000 of the best drilled
soldiers in the country (as unquestionably are the troops of this depart
meut) in the heart of Georgia, our lauding and inarch being made-
through counties in which, as shown by the census, the slave popula
tion is 75 per cent, of the inhabitants. Nothing is truer, sir, than that
this rebellion has left the Southern States a mere hollow shell. If we
avoid their few strongholds, where they have prepared for and invited
us to battle, we shall meet no opposition in a total devastation of their
resources, thus compelling them to break up their large armies and
garrisons at a few points into scores of small fractions of armies for the
protection of every threatened or assailable point. I will guarantee,
with the troops now fruitlessly though laboriously occupying Folly
and Seabrook Islands and such other troops as can be spared iroin the
CHAP. XXVI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. UNION. 457
remaining posts of this department, to penetrate into Georgia, produce
a practical dissolution of tbe slave system there, destroy all railroad
communication along the eastern portion of the State, and lay. waste all
stores which can possibly be used for the sustenance of the rebellion.
My troops are in splendid health and discipline, and in my judgment
are more thoroughly in sympathy with the policy of the Government
than any other equal body of men in the service of the United States
to-day. With the exception of one brigadier- general and one colonel
commanding a brigade there is not an officer of any consequence in the
command who is not heart and soul in favor of prosecuting this war
by any and every means likely to insure success.
Only once liberate me from enforced waiting on the action of those
who, I fear, are not likely to do anything, and I promise you that I will
give full employment to twice or thrice my number of the enemy, and
that while Eosecrans threatens Bragg in front I will interrupt his com
munications, threaten his rear, and spread a panic through the country.
In this connection I would ask, if possible, for a regiment of cavalry,
and that the brigade sent by me to the relief of Major-General Foster
may be ordered back from North Carolina. If no cavalry can be spared
me, that 500 horses and 1,000 saddles and equipments may be sent to
me immediately. Also that the pikes drawn for by my chief of ordnance
may be supplied immediately; the weapons being the simplest and
most effective that can be placed in the hands of the slaves who are
liberated in our march into the interior.
In conclusion, I would again call attention to my request to be en
dowed with the same powers intrusted to Adjutant-General Thomas
for raising colored regiments and giving commissions to their officers.
I think this of the utmost importance, as each commission promptly
given to a deserving non-commissioned officer or private has the effect
of conciliating the sentiment of the regiment from which the appointee
is taken, and it is of the utmost importance that the experiment of
colored soldiers should have the hearty acquiescence of the troops with
whom they are to serve.
I deem this matter of so much importance and am so wearj^ of inac
tivity that I send this letter by special steamer to Fortress Monroe,
and have instructed the captain of the vessel to wait for your reply.
I have the honor to be, sir, very respectfully, your most obedient
servant,
D. HUNTEE,
Major- General, Commanding.
I send this letter by Capt. Arthur M. Kinzie, one of my aides-de-camp,
who will await your answer and return immediately by the steamer
which bears this to Fortress Monroe.
D. HUNTEE,
Major- General.
GENERAL ORDERS, ) HDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF THE SOUTH,
No. 40. f Hilton Head, Port Royal, 8. C., May 22, 1803.
I. The major-general commanding desires to call the attention of all
officers and men in this department to the paramount necessity of ob
serving rules for the preservation of health during the warm months,
upon which we have now entered. There is less to be apprehended
from battle than disease; the records of all campaigns in climates such
458 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVI.
as this showing many more victims to the neglect of sanitary precau
tions than to the skill, endurance, or courage of the enemy.
The following rules for the sanitary government of all the troops at
present serving in this department are hereby repromulgated, and all
officers having the charge of camps or posts will be held to a strict
responsibility for their enforcement.
II. Care will be taken in the selection of camping grounds to avoid
as much as possible the vicinity of malarious morasses or swamps, and
the tents, in so far as practicable, are to be faced to the south. Each
camp will be thoroughly policed twice each day, morning and evening,
and all garbage or refuse matter will be collected and buried in the sinks.
Post and regimental commanders will be held directly responsible for
any neglect of police duty.
III. Each tent will be screened or covered at the top and half way
down the sides with an arbor of brush-wood or palm leaves, and shall
be floored at an elevation of not less than 3 inches from the ground.
Where lumber cannot be procured each soldier will have a bunk raised
18 inches from the ground on side poles, supported by forked sticks.
All quartermasters, to the extent of their ability, will furnish barrel
staves to be placed across these side poles, and will issue the necessary
lumber on receipt of proper requisitions.
IV. Tents will be struck at least three times each week and every
article of bedding and clothing taken out and aired, the flooring and
bunks to be thoroughly cleansed before the tents are re-erected. On
the days in which the tents are not struck the sides will be raised and
kept raised for the purpose of ventilation, and during the nights free
ventilation will be secured by having the center seam in rear of the
tent opened for the space of 2 feet and kept opened by the insertion of
a forked stick. An officer of each company w?ill inspect the tents of
his men nightly, except during stormy weather, to see that this provision
is carried out.
V. Sinks of the proper size, screened with pine or palmetto branches,
shall be sunk at suitable distances on different sides of each camp, and
the bottoms of these will be covered each morning with a layer of sand
or clay. It will be the duty of the camp police to see that only the
sinks on the lee side of the camp are used.
VI. Fresh meat is to be issued as often as practicable, and command
ing officers, while near the sea-coast, will encourage such of their men
as are off' duty or not otherwise employed to fish during the cool hours
of the morning and evening, not later than 9 in the morning and not
earlier than G in the evening. In a scarcity of fresh meat those troops
in the most exposed and unhealthy situations are to be first served.
VII. Breakfast will be ready for the men as soon as they leave their
tents, which must not be until after sunrise. Except when immediately
in face of the enemy, or when specially ordered by the commanding
officer, reveille will not be sounded until half an hour after sunrise,
by which time the sun's heat will have absorbed the miasma of the
night dews. All the men will be furnished with straw hats, and will be
required to bathe or wash themselves thoroughly at least twice each
week and change their under clothing once a week, or oftener if prac
ticable. Sentry-boxes of lumber, or small shade arbors of brush-wood,
will be erected in the vicinity of all points where sentries are stationed,
and all soldiers on night picket or sentry duty will be provided with
India rubber ponchos.
VIII. The proper cooking of provisions is a matter of great impor
tance, more especially in this climate, but has not yet received from a
CHAP. XXVI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. UNION 459
majority of t lie officers in our volunteer service that attention which is
paid to it in the Regular Army of the United States and by the armies
of Europe. Hereafter an officer of each company will be detailed to su
perintend the cooking; of provisions, taking can* lhat all food prepared
for the soldiers is sufficiently cooked, and that the meats are boiled or
roasted, not fried. With a little care bestowed on this point, and the
advantage both to health and comfort of good cooking explained to the
men, much good may be effected.
Post and regimental commanders, post provost marshals, post inspect
ors, and the officers of the medical staff will see that the provisions of
this order are complied with, and will promptly report any failure or
neglect to the senior officers of the commands they are serving with
and to the medical director of this department.
By command of Maj. Gen. D. Hunter:
CHAS. G. HALPLNE,
Lieut. Col. and A. A. G., Tenth Army Corps and Dept. of the South.
NEW YORK, May 23, 1863,
General G. W. CULLTJM,
Chief of Staff to the General-in-Chief, Washington, D. C. :
GENERAL: It has come to my knowledge that my name has been
mentioned to the Secretary of War in connection with the reduction of
the forts in Charleston Harbor, and it has been urgently suggested to
place me in a position where 1 could direct and control the operations
of the land forces against that place. Two or three communications
from prominent men here have been sent to the Secretary.
It is not necessary to inform you, who are so well acquainted with
me, that I am not in the habit of pushing myself forward or thrusting
my professional opinion unasked upon the notice of those in authority.
In my daily intercourse with gentlemen of my acquaintance I am, how
ever, always free to answer questions, and I have at sundry times and
in sundry places expressed the opinion that the forts in Charleston
Harbor could be reduced by the means (naval and military combined)
now available in the Department of the South, increased by a suitable
number of the best heavy rifled guns, provided these have not been
sent there since I left that department one year ago.
I have also said that I am willing to risk my own reputation upon the
attempt, as I did at Pulaski, provided I could be allowed the uii tram
meled execution of my own plans (as at Pulaski), except so far as they
involved co-operation from the Navy.
You are at liberty to show this letter to the general-in-chief or any
one else.
I expect to remain here until the evening of the 27th instant, and then
go directly to Cincinnati.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
Q. A. GILLMOEE,
Brigadier- General.
GENERAL ORDERS, ) HDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF THE SOUTH,
No. 41. } Hilton Head, Port Royal, S. <7., May 26, 1863.
I. Numerous persons having recently been brought in United States
transports to this department, without any apparent or legitimate busi-
460 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVI.
ness or claim to be furnished with public transportation, and amongst
those thus sent there having been found one known rebel spy, several pro
fessional gamblers with the cheating implements of their trade, and others
equally objectionable, it is ordered that hereafter no persons will be
allowed to land in this department from any United States transport or
other vessel having come from a port not within the limits of this depart
ment, except persons belonging to the Army or Navy of the United States,
or such other persons as may have with them at the time they attempt
to land the permit or pass of His Excellency the President, the hon
orable the Secretary of War, the general-in-chief of the U. S. Army, or
the major-general commanding this department, or certified copies of
the same duly attested.
II. Many hundreds of able-bodied men liable to the draft and not in
the employ of the Government being now within the limits of this de
partment, pursuing schemes of private profit and speculations based
on the necessities of the service, it is hereby ordered that all such per
sons who may be fouu^l within the limits of this department within
twenty days from the date of this general order shall be drafted to fill
up the weakened regiments from the respective States to which they
belong now serving in this department, and' all such persons belong
ing to States not represented here by regiments will be drafted to
serve in the regiment numerically the weakest. From this draft no
exemptions will be allowed except by special orders from the provost-
marshal-general, approved by these headquarters ; such special orders
to be based on evidence that the party seeking to" be exempted is one
whose services or usefulness in his civil capacity are such as to justify
his claim.
III. The provost-marshal-geueral of the department will see that the
provisions of this order are rigidly enforced.
By command of Maj. Gen. D. Hunter :
CHAS. G. HALPINE,
Lieut. Col. and A. A. #., Tenth A. C. and Dept. of the South.
GENERAL ORDERS, \ UDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF THE SOUTH,
No. 42. | Hilton Head, Port Royal, S. (7., May 28, 1803.
I. Capt. F. C. Ford, commissary of subsistence, is hereby announced
as acting chief commissary of the department during the temporary
absence of Lieut. Col. M. E. Morgan, commissary of subsistence Tenth
Army Corps, chief commissary Department of the South.
First Lieut. Franklin E. Town, Forty-second New York Volunteers,
acting signal officer, is hereby announced as chief signal officer of the
department on the staff of the major-general commanding.
Captain Ford and Lieutenant Town, in their respective branches of
the service, will be obeyed and respected accordingly.
II. Paragraph III, General Orders, No. 36, current series, from these
headquarters, is hereby countermanded. Hereafter all enlisted men
appointed and commissioned in the colored regiments will be mustered
out as enlisted men when mustered into service as officers.
By command of Maj. Gen. D. Hunter :
CHAS. G. HALPINE,
Lieut. Col. and A. A. G., Tenth A. C. and Dept. of the South.
CHAP. XXVI.]
CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. UNION.
461
Abstract from Return of the Department of the South, Maj. Gen. David Hunter command
ing, for the month of May, 1863 ; headquarters Hilton Head, S. C.
4B
PrM<
nt for
-g
P
Pieces of
d
aty.
i
£^
artillery.
Iff
Command.
I
.1
•g at
ll*
1
5
I
fl
>»
| ' 1
111
o
m
H
^
W &
Department staff
16
48
65
67
48
Folly Island, S. C., Brig. Gen. Israel Vogdes
Sealirook Island, S. C., Brig. Gen. O. S. Ferry
198
127
3,834
2,968
4,692
3 652
5,720
4 771
16 9
6
5, 647
4,844
Hilton Head Island, S. C., Col. J. L. Chatflold
Port Royal Island, S. C., Briar. Gen. E. Saxton. ..
Fort Pulaski, Ga., Col. W. it Barton
126
174
30
2, 8 19
3, 122
768
3,890
3,942
948
4, 501
5, 218
1 C28
10
16 18
5,613
5, 430
1,027
Ossabaw Island, Ga., Maj. D. A. Allen
10
405
488
558
571
Saint Aucrustine, Fla., Col. <J. R. Hawlcy
20
499
624
886
887
Fernandiua, Fla., Col. H. S. Putnam
30
515
696
755
759
Grand total
737
15 008
18 997
23 504
32 43
24 827
Organization of the troops in the Department of the 8outh, Maj. Gen. David
Hunter commanding. May 31, 1863.
FOLLY ISLAND.
Brig. Gen. ISRAEL VOGDES.
6th Connecticut, Lieut. Col. John Spei-
del.
39th Illinois, Col. Thomas O. Osborn.
4th New Hampshire, Col. Louis Bell.
100th New York, Col. George B. Dandy.
62d Ohio, Lieut. Col. Clemens F. Steele.
b'7ih Ohio, Col. Alvin C. Voris.
85th Pennsylvania. Col. Joshua B. How-
ell. •
1st Massachusetts Cavalry (detachment).
3d New York Light Artillery (one com
pany), Capt. Edwin S. Jenney.
3d Rhode Island Artillery (two compa
nies).
1st U. S. Artillery, Battery C, Lieut. Cor
nelius Hook.
1st New York Engineers (three compa
nies), Maj. James E. Place.
SEABROOK ISLAND.
Brig. Gen. OERIS S. FERRY.
Stevenson's Brigade. Guss' Brigade.
Brig-. Gen. Tnos. G. STEVENSON.
10th Connecticut, Col. John L. Otis.
ii4th Mass., Col. Francis A. Oshorn.
56th New York, Col. Charles H. Van
Wyck.
97th Pennsylvania, Maj. Galusha Penny-
packer.
Col. HENRY R. Guss.
3d N. H. , Col. John H. Jackson.
76th Pa., Lieut. Col. John C. Campbell.
3d New York Artillery, Company B,
Lieut. Samuel C. Day.
1st New York Engineers, Company I,
Lieut. James H. Harold.
HILTON HEAD ISLAND.
Col. JOHN L. CHATFIELD.
8th Maine, Col. John D. Rust.
9th Maine, Lieut. Col. Sabine Emery.
1 15th New York, Col. Simeon Samruon.
1st Massachusetts Cavalry^ Companies
I and M,
3d Rhode Island Artillery (eight compa
nies), Col. Edwin Metcalt'.
1st U. S. Art., Bat. B, Lieut. Guy V. Henry.
3d U. S. Art., Bat. E, Capt, Jiio. Hamilton.
1st New York Engineers (three compa-i-
nies), Col. Edward W. Serrell,
462 COASTS OF S. C ., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA, [CHAP. XXVI.
PORT ROYAL ISLAND.
Brig. Gen. RUFUS SAXTON.
llth Maine, Col. Harris M. Plaisted.
Eufans Perdns, New York (eight cos.),
Capt. M. Schmitt.
52d Pennsylvania, Col. John C. Dodge, jr.
55th Pennsylvania, Col. Richard White.
104th Pa., Lieut. Col. Thompson D. Hart.
174th Pennsylvania, Col. John Nyce.
176th Pa., Col. Ambrose A. Lechler.
1st Massachusetts Cavalry (three com-
uanies).
1st Connecticut Battalion, Capt. Alfred
P. Rockwell.
3d Rhode Island Artillery, Cos. A and C,
Lieut, Edward F. Curtis, Capt.
Charles R. Bray ton.
1st U. 8. Artillery, Battalions D and M,
Lieut, Joseph P. Sanger, Capt.
Loomis L. Langdon.
1st New York Engineers, Company K,
Capt. Henry L. Southard.
FORT PULASKI, GA.
Col. WILLIAM B. BARTON.
48th New York, Col. William B. Barton.
1st New York Engineers, Company F, Capt. Samuel C. Eaton.
3d Rhode Island Artillery, Company G, Capfc. John H. Gould.
OSS AB AW ISLAND, GA.
47th New York, Maj. David A. Allen.
SAINT AUGUSTINE, FLA.
7th Connecticut, Col. Joseph R. Hawley.
FERNANDINA, FLA.
7th New Hampshire, Col. Haldimand S. Putnam.
HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE SOUTH,
Hilton Head, Port Royal, S. C., June 3, 1863.
His Excellency Governor ANDREW, Massachusetts:
GOVERNOR : I Lave the honor to announce that the Fifty-fourth Massa
chusetts (colored troops), Colonel Shaw commanding, arrived safely in
this harbor this afternoon and have been sent to Port Royal Island.
The regiment had an excellent passage, and from the appearance of the
men I doubt not that this command will yet win a reputation and place
in history deserving the patronage you have given them. Just as they
were steaming up the bay I received from Col. James Montgomery, com
manding Second South Carolina Regiment, a telegraphic dispatch, of
which certified copy is inclosed.* Colonel Montgomery's is but the initial
step of a system of operations which will rapidly compel the rebels either
to lay down their arms and sue for restoration to the Union or to with
draw their slaves into the interior, thus leaving desolate the most fertile
and productive of their counties along the Atlantic sea-board.
The Fifty-fourth Regiment Massachusetts Volunteers shall soon be
profitably and honorably employed, and I beg that you will send for
service in this department the other colored regiments which Colonel
* Not found.
CHAP. XXVI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. UNION. 463
Shaw tells me you are now organizing and have in forward prepara
tion.
Thanking you heartily for the kindness and promptness with which
you have met my views in this matter, and referring .\ou to my letter
to Mr. Jefferson Davis as a guarantee that all soldiers fighting for the
flag of their country in this department will be protected irrespective
of any accident of color or birth, I have the honor to be, Governor,- with
the highest esteem, your very obedient servant,
D. HUNTER,
Major- General, Commanding.
HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE SOUTH,
Hilton Head, Port Royal, S. <?., June 3, 1863.
Hon. E. M. STANTON,
Secretary of War, Washington, D. C. :
SIR: I have much pleasure in transmitting to you herewith certified
copy of a telegraphic report * just received from Col. James Montgomery,
commanding Second South Carolina Regiment, of the result of the first
of a series of raids upon the main-laud, now organized and in process
of being carried out.
From the report you will see that Colonel Montgomery, with 300 men
of his regiment and a section of the Third Rhode Island Battery, com
manded by Captain Brayton, penetrated the country of the enemy 25
miles, destroyed a pontoon bridge across the Combahee River, together
with a vast amount of cotton, rice, and other property, and brought
away with him 725 slaves and some 5 horses.
This expedition is but the initial experiment of a system of incur
sions which will penetrate up all the inlets, creeks, and rivers of this
department, and to be used in which I am now having several of our
light-draught transport steamers supplied with bulwarks of boiler-iron
to protect the troops on board from musketry and rifles ; such steamers
carrying 10 and 20-pounder howitzers in their bows.
I have also to report that Colonel Hawley, Seventh Regiment Con
necticut Volunteers, commanding Saint Augustine, recently made a
raid into the interior, in which he captured 118 head of cattle and many
mules and horses, the cattle belonging to one Feitch, who was a con
tractor for supplying beef to the rebel army.
Colonel Montgomery with his forces will repeat his incursions as
rapidly as possible in different directions, injuring the enemy all he can
and carrying away their slaves, thus rapidly filling up the South Caro
lina regiments in the department, of which there are now four.
The Fifty-fourth Regiment Massachusetts Volunteers (colored), Colo
nel Shaw commanding, arrived to-day in good condition, and appear an
excellent regiment, over 900 strong. They will soon have abundant and
very important employment, as will all other regiments, white or col
ored, that may be sent to re-enforce this department.
Congratulating you and the country on the favorable aspect of affairs
in the Southwest, and hoping soon to be in a position to send you good
news from this department, 1 have the honor to be, sir, with the highest
esteem, your very obedient servant,
D. HUNTER,
Major- General, Comma n ding.
* Not found.
464 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVL
HDQRS. DEPT. SOUTH CAROLINA, GEORGIA, AND FLORIDA,
Charleston, S. C., June 3, 1863.
Maj. Gen. D. HUNTER,
Commanding U. 8» Forces, Hilton Head, S. C. :
OENERAL: In the absence from these immediate headquarters of
General Beauregard it is my place to ask your attention to the fol
lowing :
Brigadier-General Walker, commanding 0. S. forces Pocotaligo, rep
resents that it has become the practice, whenever he has occasion to
communicate with the military authorities of the United States in his
quarter by flag of truce, to receive the flag by a detachment of negroes,
commanded by officers belonging to regiments of negroes, which of
course debars us from further communication. On the other hand, when
the flag originates with the United States authorities it is borne and
escorted by detachments of white soldiers and officers of white regi
ments. The virtual effect of which is apparent to exclude us from all
communication by flags of truce, while our enemy retains that privilege
by compliance in the composition of the escort of his flag with our regu
lations. I cannot believe that this is your actual intention, that is, that
you have determined by the obnoxious complexion of the detachment
sent to receive our flags to reject all flags of truce. from our side, while
exercising the privilege of the flag of truce to its fullest extent on your
own side. Therefore am I induced to present the matter frankly and
plainly for your consideration, and to ask to be made acquainted with
your future intentions in the premises.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
THOMAS JORDAN,
Brigadier- General, Chief of Staff.
SPECIAL ORDERS, ) HDQRS. OF THE ARMY, ADJT. GEN.'S OFFICE,
No. 249. ( , Washington, June 3, 1863.
#*#*##*
V. By direction of the President Maj or- General Hunter is tempo
rarily relieved from command of the Department of the South, and will
report to the Adjutant-General for special duty in Washington. Brig.
Gen. Q. A. Gillinore is assigned by the President to the temporary com
mand of the Department of the South.*
By command of Major-General Halleck:
J. C. KELTON,
Assistant Adjutant- General.
YORK, June 4, 1863.
Capt. G. Y. Fox,
Assistant Secretary oj me Navy, Washington, D. C. :
MY DEAR SIR: I learn by conference with Admiral Foote that
fifteen or twenty days may possibly elapse before he can start South.
As I expect to start by Monday next at furthest, and as it may be of
vital importance for us to secure a lodgment on Morris Island before its
defenses, now rapidly progressing, are complete, I respectfully request
* Uuder this order Hunter was relieved by Gillmore June 12, 1863,
CHAP. XXVI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. UNION. 465
that Admiral DuPout be advised to co-operate in such preliminary
operations as it may be necessary to inaugurate in order to secure that
end.
Admirals Foote and Dahlgren coincide with ine in this view of the
matter.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
Q. A. GILLMOBE,
Brigadier- General.
NEW YORK, June 5, 1863.
Maj. Gen. EL W. HALLECK,
General-in-Chief U. S. Army, Washington, D. C. :
SIR : I arrived here yesterday morning, and learned during the day
from the quartermaster that the Arago would sail to-day. As I had to
look after some important matters, I arranged to have another steamer
belonging to Port Royal (the Ben De Ford) start on Monday morning,
and my present plan is to go in that way.
I ask authority to purchase 2 scows, 5 or 6 telescopic rifles, and 4
of David Smith's batteries of small rifles, comprising 25 rifle barrels,
arranged to be fired simultaneously. I am acquainted with this piece,
and it is now in service in the Department of the Gulf. It is strongly
recommended by Colonel Delafield and other good judges. Orders to
the proper departments to pay for these articles should be given. I
saw Admiral Foote yesterday. He does not expect to start South for
fifteen or twenty days. Instructions should be obtained from the Navy
Department to Admiral DuPont to co-operate zealously in any initiatory
steps which may be advisedly taken to obtain a lodgment on Morris
Island before its defenses are completed. It would be well I think that
I should be the bearer of these instructions myself.
Admirals Foote and Dahlgren coincide with my views on this point.
Yery respectfully, your obedient servant,
Q. A. GILLMORE,
Brigadier- General.
HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE SOUTH,
Hilton Head, Port Royal, 8. C., June 8, 18G3.
Brig. Gen. THOMAS JORDAN,
Chief of Staff, &c., Charleston, S. C.:
GENERAL : In reply to your communication dated June 3, 1863, sent
through the senior naval officer U. S. forces off Charleston and signed
by you in the temporary absence of General Beauregard, I have the
honor to state —
That no invidious distinction, as you seem to suppose, was intended
to be made between the class of officers instructed to receive flags of
truce from you and those sent by me with flags of truce to your lines.
The Government of the United States recognizes no difference be
tween officers mustered into her service and fighting under her flag.
All are equally competent to be intrusted with the duties of their re
spective positions, and all are accorded equal protection and rights.
It is the invariable practice of all armies for the senior officer on out
post duty to receive flags of truce sent to that portion of the lines
30 R R — VOL xiv
466 COASTS OF s. a, GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA.
under his charge, and it happened on the occasion of your sending
a flag to which you refer that the regiment on duty was the First
South Carolina Eegiment of loyal volunteers. No change of the regular
practice was thought necessary in the case, nor can any chauge of the
practice, invidious to any portion of the soldiers of the United States,
be allowed. The flag of the United States covers all its defenders with
equal honor and protection, irrespective of any accidents of color. This
is now the avowed and settled policy of niy Government and of all
other governments under whose flags colored soldiers, whether African
or East Indian, have been or are employed. No principle of interna
tional military usage is better settled or more universally recognized
amongst civilized nations. The flag of truce sent to you by my order
was, as is also usual, intrusted to a staff oflicer of the post through
which it was sent, and in so sending it no regard was had to the fact
whether he was or was not commissioned to serve with colored troops.
I have the honor to be, general, your very obedient servant,
D. HUNTER,
Major- General, Commanding.
HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE SOUTH,
Hilton Head, S. <?., June 9, 1803.
Col. JAMES MONTGOMERY,
Comdg. Second 8. C. Regiment, Saint Simon's Island :
COLONEL: I have the honor of transmitting herewith a copy of Gen
eral Orders, No. 100, of the War Department, current series, promulgat
ing a system of " Instructions for the government of armies of the United
States in the field," prepared by an eminent international and military
jurist, Dr. Francis Lieber, revised by a board of high officers, and ap
proved and established by the President of the United States.*
To sections I, II, III of these instructions I beg to call your particular
attention $ not that in any manner I doubt the justice or generosity of
your judgment, but for the reason that it is peculiarly important, in
view of the questions which have heretofore surrounded the employ
ment of colored troops in the armies of the United States, to give our
enemies (foreign and domestic) as little ground as possible for alleging
any violation of the laws and usages of civilized warfare as a palliation
for these atrocities which are threatened against the men and officers
of commands similar to your own. If, as is threatened by the rebel
Congress, this war has eventually to degenerate into a barbarous and
savage conflict, softened by none of the amenities and rights established
by the wisdom and civilization of the world through successive cen
turies of struggle, it is of the first moment that the infamy of this de
terioration should rest exclusively and without excuse upon the rebel
Government. It will therefore be necessary for you to exercise the
utmost strictness in insisting upon compliance with the instructions
herewith sent, and you will avoid any devastation which does not strike
immediately at the resources or material of the armed insurrection which
we are now engaged in the task of suppressing.
All fugitives who come within our lines you will receive, welcome,
and protect. Such of them as are able-bodied men you will at once
enroll and arm as soldiers. You will take all horses and mules avail
able for transportation to the enemy; also all cattle and other food
* To appear in Series III.
CHAP. XXVI. ] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. UNION. 467
which can be of service to our forces. As the rebel Government has laid
all grain and produce under conscription, to be taken at will for the use
of its armed adherents, you will be justified in destroying all stores of
this kind which you shall nob be able to remove; but the destruction
of crops in the ground, which may not be fit for use until the rebellion
is over, or which may when ripe be of service to the forces of our Gov
ernment occupying the enemy's country, you will not engage in with
out mature consideration. This right of war, though unquestionable
in certain extreme cases, is not to be lightly used, and if wantonly used
might fall under that part of the instructions which prohibits devasta
tion. All household furniture, libraries, churches, and hospitals you
will of course spare.
That the wickedness and folly of the enemy may soon place us in a
position where the immutable laws of self-defense and the stern neces
sity of retaliation will not only justify but enjoin every conceivable
species of injury is only to be too clearly apprehended; but until such
time shall have arrived, and until the prool'5 not merely of declarations
or resolves but of acts, is unmistakable, it will be both right and wise
to hold the troops under your command to the very strictest interpreta
tion of the laws and usages of civilized warfare.
Expressing the highest confidence in your courage, skill, humanity,
and discretion, I have the honor to be, colonel, very respectfully, yours,
I). HUNTER,
Major- General, Commandiny.
HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE SOUTH,
Hilton Head, Port Royal, S. C., June 10, 1863.
Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLECK,
Gfeneral-in- Chief U. S. Army, Washington City, D. C. :
GENERAL : I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your tele
gram directing that all exchanges shall cease, and that all rebel pris
oners shall be held in close custody under guard until further orders.
I take this occasion to renew most respectfully my request for a regi
ment of cavalry, or that the two battalions First Massachusetts Cav
alry, now at the North, may be remanded to service in this department,
which one battalion of the regiment (our entire cavalry force) has never
left. A statement of the circumstances under which these two battal
ions were sent North will, I believe, justify my urgent request for their
return.
The whole regiment was ordered North last August, partly no doubt
from a pressing need for re-enforcements to the Army of the Potomac,
but still more perhaps in answer to the unofficial personal appeals of
Maj. Eobert Williams, assistant adjutant-general, then its colonel. Im
mediately on receiving the order to send the regiment North I at once
hastened to comply therewith, at the same time forwarding a respectful
remonstrance against stripping this department of its cavalry; a depart
ment from the extent of its exposed fronts particularly needing cavalry
for picket and patrol duty.
The justice of the remonstrance was promptly acknowledged by an
order for the retention of the First Massachusetts Gavahy in the de
partment, but before this revocation was received my promptness in
executing the first order had left only one battalion to be retained.
468
COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP
. XXVL
I very urgently request, therefore, that the portion of this regiment
now iforth may be sent to me without delay, or that another cavalry
regiment be ordered to duty in this department.
I have the honor to be, general, very respectfully, your most obedient
servant,
D. HUNTER,
Major -General.
Abstract from Tri-monthly Consolidated Report of the Department of the South, Maj. Gen*
David Hunter commanding) for June 10, 1863; headquarters Hilton Head, Port Royal,
S. C.
Command.
Present for
duty.
*5
a
1
<
Aggregate present and
absent.
Aggregate present and
absent last return.
Pieces of artillery.
O
1
16
197
91
184
121
35
30
16
24
19
32
48
3,757
1,981
3,326
2,728
844
751
393
337
466
529
65
4,711
2, G57
4,280
3,85*)
945
468
433
626
672
67
5,701
3, 243
5,728
4,480
1,470
1, 024
540
566
704
727
67
5,723
4,769
6,641
4, 496
Follv Island S C Brig Gen Israel Vo^des
16
16
10
Seabrook Island, S. C., Brig. Gen. T. G. Stevenson
liwiufort S C Brig Gen K Saxton
Hilton Head, S. C. Col. J. L. Chatfield
Saint Helena Island S C Col Henry II Guss
Fort Pulaski, Ga. Col. W. B Barton
1,024
559
Oasabaw Island, Ga., Maj. D. A.Allen
Fernandina, Fla., Col. H M. Plaisted
Saint Augustine, Fla., Col. Joseph R. Hawley
703
755
M
En route for Hilton Head S C. Col. H. S. Putnam
Grand total
765
15, 160
19, 700
24, 250
24, 737
Command,
Present for duty equipped.
Infantry.
Cavalry.
Artillery.
Officers.
1
I
|
|
i
Department staff
Folly Island, S. C., Brig. Gen. Israel Vogdes ....
189
91
164
76
34
28
16
24
19
32
3,688
1,996
3,077
1,773
844
771
393
361
466
529
1
24
9
2
9
35
226
94
401
694
Seabrook Island, S. C., Brig. Gen. T G Stevenson
Beaufort, S. C., Brig. Gen. II. Saxton
4
3
101
87
Hilton Head, S. C., Col. J. L. Chatfield
Saint Helena Island, S. C., Col. Henry R. Guss. . .
Fort Pulaski, Ga., Col. W. B. Barton
2
67
Ossabaw Lsland, Ga., Maj. D. A. Allen
Fernandina, Fla., Col. H. M. Plaistod
Saint Augustine, Fla., Col. Joseph R. Hawley ..
En route for Hilton Head, S. C., Col. H. S. Putnam
Grand total
673
13,898
8
212
57
1,481
CHAP. XXVI.]
CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. UNION.
469
Organization of troops in the Department of the South, Maj. Gen. David
Hunter commanding, June 10, 1863.
FOLLY ISLAND.
Brig. Gen. ISRAEL VOGDES.
6th Connecticut.
S9th Illinois.
4th New Hampshire.
100th New York.
62d Ohio.
67th Ohio.
85th Pennsylvania.
HILTON HEAD.
Col. JOHN L. CHATFIELD.
8th Maine.
115th New York.
3d Rhode Island.
1st New York Engineers.
1st U. S. Artillery, Battery B.
3d U. S. Artillery, Battery E.
1st Massachusetts Cav., Cos. I and M.
SEABEOOK ISLAND.
Brig. Gen. T. G. STEVENSON.
10th Connecticut.
24th Massachusetts.
56th New York.
97th Pennsylvania.
SAINT HELENA ISLAND.
Col. HENRY R. Guss.
9th Maine.
7th New Hampshire.
76th Pennsylvania.
97th Pennsylvania.
BEAUFORT.
Brig. Gen. RUFUS SAXTON.
52d Pennsylvania.
55th Pennsylvania.
104th Pennsylvania.
174th Pennsylvania.
176th Pennsylvania.
Independent New York Battalion.
1st Connecticut Battery.
1st U. S. Artillery, Batteries C,D, and M.
1st Massachusetts Cavalry, Third Bat
talion.
UNATTACHED.
7th Connecticut'(Saint Augustine, Fla.).
llth Maine (Fernandina, Fla).
47th New York (Ossabaw Island).
48th New York (Fort Pulaski).
PRINCETON, K J., June 25, 1863.
His Excellency ABRAHAM LINCOLN,
President of the United States :
SIR : You cannot fail to be aware that my removal from tbe command
of the Department of the South has been all but universally regarded
as a censure on my conduct while in that command.
Satisfied and well knowing that I acted throughout in strict obe
dience to orders, and that my record when published will prove an
ample vindication of my course, I now respectfully request of you lib
erty to make such publication of official documents and records as may
be necessary to set me right in the eyes of my friends and in the justice
of history. The time has now passed when any injurious effect to the
public service could possibly arise from such publication.
Knowing how greatly your time is occupied, I shall regard your silence
in reply to this note as giving me the liberty I ask and will act accord
ingly . Should you deem such publications as I propose unadvisable,
will you be kind enough to notify me of your opinion without delay1?
I have the honor to be, sir, very respectfully, your most obedient
servant,
D. HUNTEB,
Major- Gen era I.
470 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVI.
EXECUTIVE MANSION,
Washington, June 30, 1863.
Major-General HUNTER :
MY DEAR GENERAL : I have just received your letter of the 25th of
June.
I assure you, and you may feel authorized in stating, that the recent
change of commanders in the Department of the South was made for
no reasons which convey any imputation upon your known energy,
efficiency, and patriotism ; but for causes which seemed sufficient, while
they were in no degree incompatible with the respect and esteem in
which I have always held you as a man and an officer.
I cannot, by giving my consent to a publication of whose details I
know nothing, assume the responsibility of whatever you may write.
In this matter your own sense of military propriety must be your guide
and tbe regulations of the service your rule of conduct.
I am, very truly, your friend,
A. LINCOLN.
, ETC.
HDQRS. DEPT. OF SOUTH CAROLINA AND GEORGIA,
PocotaligOj April 11, 1862.
General N. G. EVANS,
Commanding Third Military District :
GENERAL : I am instructed by the major- general commanding to say
to you that he desires you to look rather to the approach of the enemy
by the Willstown road than to the holding of the point of .your line.
You will therefore make such disposition of the troops of your district-
as will enable you to concentrate toward Eantowles Bridge to resist
the enemy should he approach in that direction. The general also
suggests the immediate withdrawal of all batteries not absolutely nec
essary to the protection of Charleston.
We need all the guns we can obtain for the defense of our extensive
interior lines of intrenchments.
Two regiments have been ordered to Tennessee from General Eipley's
command and two from the Fifth Military District. It becomes there-
tore more necessary for you to have your forces in hand and aid General
Eipley if called upon.
Very respectfully, &c..
J. E. WADDY,
Assistant Adjutant- General.
HDQRS. THIRD MILITARY DISTRICT SOUTH CAROLINA,
Adams Run, 8. C., April 12, 1862.
Maj. Gen. J. C. PEMBERTON,
Comdg. Dept. of 8. (7., Ga., and Fla., Pocotaligo, S. C.:
GENERAL: I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your offi
cial letter of the llth instant relative to the concentration of the forces
of this military district, removal of batteries, &c. I have contemplated
for some weeks to concentrate all my forces on the main-laud near this
place, leaving the forces now on the Wadmalaw Eiver in their present
position, but on account of the demonstration on Edisto Island I have
expected an attack on Slann's Island.
CHAP. XXVI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. CONFEDERATE. 471
The enemy lias largely increased his force on Edisto Island, and has
reoccupied Little Edisto and Whooping Islands, directly opposite Pine-
berry, on the Edisto Ferry, at either of which localities he can land any
force within 5 miles of these headquarters, where all oar stores and sick
are. Hence I have deemed it essential to have a force near my intrench-
ments on Slann's Island Creek, as well as to contest his gaining a posi
tion on the main-land at Pineberry. Should the enemy land at White
Point, which he can dp at his option, he could easily take this place,
had I no force convenient to meet him. Bantowles Bridge is 24 miles
from White Point, and of course the railroad, only 12 miles, could be
easily seized if the march of the foe is not checked. The force on John's
and Wadmalaw Islands 1 consider essentially necessary to the safety of
the troops on the main-land. To prevent an y movement of the enemy to
cut off my main-land force I have made preparations to check his land
ing at Simmons' Bluff and also at Togodo Creek. But I am of the opinion
that, should he land between this point and Church Flats, he could be
easily attacked in front by General Eipley (and the forces I have already
in position within striking distance of Bantowles), and I could with my
force from other positions attack his rear and left flank, which move
ments, if done in concert, will certainly retard his march on the city of
Charleston, if not successful in cutting off his entire army from their
re-enforcements. I have ordered the guns at Willstown to be removed
immediately, and, should I not receive further instructions, will send
them to Bantowles. The Pineberry Battery of two guns will also be
moved in a few days. The Willstown road has always been my base
line of operations, and I have now a regiment of infantry, two batteries,
and a cavalry force between the road and Wadmalaw Biver, with in
structions to contest the landing of the enemy. It is impossible for me
to vacate this place and protect the railroad, and to defend it will re
quire the force I have now in advance. General Bipley and myself have
had an understanding for mutual support of each other. I have deter
mined to check the enemy as much as possible, falling back to Ban
towles, where our commands would be united. I would respectfully
suggest the necessity of a platform train, to be kept either at Jackson-
borough or Adams Bun Depot, in order to more speedily effect the
uniting of our troops in case I should be compelled to retire to Jack-
sonborough.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
N. G. EVANS,
Brigadier- General. Commanding.
HEADQUARTERS,
Richmond, Va., April 14, 1862.
Maj. Gen. J. C. PEMBERTON,
Commanding Department, Pocotaligo, S. C. :
GENERAL : Your letter of the 9th instant,* to the Adjutant and In
spector General, concerning the difficulties in the way of re enlistments
in the State troops and the connection of railroads in Augusta, has
been referred to General Lee, who directs me to say that it is of the ut
most importance that the State troops now around Savannah continue
in service, either that of the State or the Confederacy. He had previ
ously written to General Lawton to this effect, and hopes no efforts will
~~* See Series I, Vol. VI, p. 430.
472 COASTS OF S C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVI.
be spared to secure them. The bill now before Congress, and which it
is hoped will pass, requiring that all the male population between the
ages of eighteen and thirty-five be made subject to military duty, by
draft or conscription, will have a very material effect in promoting
re-enlistments, and will prevent the disorganization of the troops in
your department whose terms are about to expire. As regards the rail
road connection in Augusta, he was in hopes that the matter had been
arranged before this between the railroad officials and the civil authori
ties. He agrees with you as to its importance, and before leaving Savan
nah had corresponded both with Governor Brown and Mr. Willis, the
superintendent of the Augusta and Savannah Kailroad, and at that
time there seemed to be no impediment to the immediate prosecution of
the work.
I am. very respectfully, your obedient servant,
W. H. TAYLOR,
Assistant Adjutant- General.
HDQRS. DEPT. or SOUTH CAROLINA AND GEORGIA,
Savannah, April 14, 1862.
Brig. Gen. A. E. LAWTON,
Commanding District of Georgia:
GENERAL: The more consideration I give to the subject the more
dissatisfied I am with the present condition of the mud batteries near
Fort Jackson. I think it most important that additional strength be
given them at once. I have already mentioned sand as one means ; if
it cannot be had in quantities sufficient, bales of cotton very closely
pressed, or rice straw made as compact as possible, and in either case
bound with iron hoops, might perhaps serve a good purpose. Straw
and cotton bales thus arranged on the exterior of the present parapets
and covered with the same earth of which the present parapets are com
posed would certainly give strength, the principal objection being that
either of these substances might be set on fire by the enemy's shells
and our view of the attacking vessels be obscured, whilst it would not
interfere with their aim. I desire you to consult with persons practi
cally acquainted with the relative advantages of the straw and cotton
as resisting mediums, and if necessary to test it with shell, which may
be done with small charges and short ranges.
Let me hear from you on this subject as soon as possible.
I am, &c.,
J. 0. PEMBEItTON,
Major- General , Commanding.
HDQRS. DISTRICT OF EAST AND MIDDLE FLORIDA,
Tallahassee, Fla., April 15, 1802.
CAPTAIN : I have the honor to report to the general commanding' the
department that the First Kegiment Florida Volunteer Cavalry has not
yet started for Tennessee, and inclose herewith report of Colonel Davis
as to condition of horses, <&c.
I also inclose the order of Brig. Gen. J. H. Trapier delaying the re
moval of this regiment for reasons specified in the order.*
I respectfully ask for instructions on the subject of the removal of
this regiment to Tennessee. I was ordered to take command of this
* Not found.
CHAP. XXVI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. CONFEDERATE. 473
district on the 1st instant, and am not responsible for the non-removal
of Colonel Davis7 regiment of cavalry. Will the general commanding
be pleased to instruct me on this subject at his earliest convenience?
I have the honor to subscribe myself, your obedient servant,
W. S. D1LWOKTH,
Colonel, Commanding.
Capt. T. A. WASHINGTON,
Assistant Adjutant- General, Pocotaligo, S. C.
[Inclosure.]
CAMP LANGFORD, FLA., April 8, 1862.
CAPTAIN : Soon after my arrival at this post I caused an examination
to be made of the condition of the horses of the First Kegiment Florida
Cavalry, with a view to ascertain their fitness to be marched to Tennes
see. 1 regret to say that owing to hard service, want of all food for
days at a time, and an entire absence of long forage for nearly two
months, all the horses, with few exceptions, are so much reduced as to
be entirely unfit for any service which would require that they should
be used continually for three days. I can use them for scouting within
a distance of 40 or 50 miles when they are not ridden more than 20 or
30 miles in a day and often rested. Many of them could not do any
duty, they are so much reduced. There are at least 200 that ought to
be condemned or put in some wild pasture. I think if two-thirds were
sent to Paiue's Prairie and put to pasture the other third would be fit
for such service as would be required of them here. The placing of the
broken-down horses in pasture would in six weeks put them all in good
condition that are capable of being made serviceable. A number of the
horses have died ; some have been abandoned on the various marches.
From this statement the colonel will perceive that the regiment is
entirely unfit to proceed to Tennessee as a cavalry corps. If the Gov
ernment will mount it in Tennessee the men are well instructed and
could render service. The horses as they are would not be worth what
it would cost the Government to feed them on the road and the pay
allowed for their use.
As we have a complete new cavalry equipment, and have good men,
who have learned the drill, it would be a matter of regret that the regi
ment should not be employed as cavalry. I am using about 250 men
as scouts, who are mounted on the best horses. You are aware that
there are 250 horses at Camp Mary Davis, belonging to three companies
now on duty here, dismounted. These horses are all in good order and
capable of any service. Two hundred of the horses here could be put
in good condition if not used for one month, and would be fit for serv
ice in Tennessee. If we condemned all the rest we should lack to mount
the command about 400 horses. The dismissal of the horses would be
a great hardship upon the men, unless compensation was made by the
Government. They have been rendered unserviceable by reason of the
inability of the Government to furnish forage and by exposure to the
weather. The officers have become security for the men who bought
the horses on credit, and pay now due would not indemnify them. I
do not therefore recommend the condemnation of the horses unless
some compensation is made the men.
I have the honor to request that the colonel commanding will make
such communication on the subject to the Department as he may deem,
proper, that I may receive instructions.
I have the honor, &c., your obedient servant,
W. G. M. DAYIS.
474 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVL
HDQRS. DEPT. OF SOUTH CAROLINA AND GEORGIA,
PocotaligOj April 15, 1862.
Brig. Gen. K G. EVANS,
Commanding Third Military District :
GENERAL : I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your offi
cial communication in relation to the concentration of the troops of
your command, and in answer am instructed to inform you that you
will make such a disposition of your force as to enable you to concen
trate as suggested in my last letter to you, dated April 11, 1862.
I am. &c..
J. R. WADDY,
Assistant Adjutant- General.
STATE OF FLORIDA, EXECUTIVE DEPARTMENT,
Tallahassee, April 15, 1862.
Hon. GEORGE W. RANDOLPH,
Secretary of War :
SIR: Tours of the instant relative to the removal of the iron
from the Florida Railroad, leading from Fernandina to Cedar Keys, was
duly received, and on the 13th I inclosed to you copies of all the cor
respondence in this Department on the subject.
When the order given by General Trapier was resisted, the order, a
copy of which you have, was issued to General Floyd, besides which he
had a letter of instruction.
Much was left to the discretion of General Floyd, because I know him
to be an officer of good judgment, having no connection with any of the
various party cliques in the State, and a brave and honorable man, who
commanded the confidence of soldiers and citizens.
In East Florida the citizens have been much divided by local inter
ests, which has produced evil results, and General Floyd is the only
gentleman residing in that part of the State known to me to command
the respect of all parties.
The enemy have evacuated Jacksonville, but command the river with
their gunboats ; Jacksonville being liable to attack, and without any
guns in battery for its defense. From the information received I have
no doubt they retired from apprehension of reports of a large guerrilla
force being near them.
1 received a letter from General Lee, dated Eichmond, 13th of March,
in which he remarked : "I would suggest to Your Excellency the impor
tance of calling every available man in Florida into the field." The sug
gestion was highly appreciated, but I knew it to be with much difficulty
and at great expense the forces already in Confederate service in the
State and those who were at camps of instruction mustered in for the
war were being subsisted, and complaint is made to me frequently that
the soldiers suffer from hunger, and under such circumstances I thought
it advisable, with all due respect to General Lee's suggestion, simply to
issue an order to the militia of the State to be held in readiness to be
assembled upon a day's notice to take up the line of march wherever
and whenever their services might be necessary, and to organize a few
companies of rangers or guerrillas to confine the enemy to their boats.
Will the Government authorize defense of the State by companies so
organized, subject to special orders and to the command of competent
officers ?
From various causes beyond control, some of which had been made
CHAP. XXVI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. CONFEDERATE. 475
known to you, the organization of companies into regiments for the war
has been delayed. But in a few days three full infantry regiments for
the war will be complete, independent of the four cavalry companies
called for by General Lee, and two artillery companies mustered in for
the war, the one at the arsenal near Ohattahoochee, commanded by Cap
tain Dunham, 150 men, six guns, and the other by Capt. R. H. Gamble,
near this place, about 90 men and four guns. The Third Regiment, com
manded by Col. W. S. Dilworth, an intelligent and efficient officer (the
officer under whose directions the batteries which commanded the
praise of Commodore DuPout at Fernandina), is an efficient regiment
and well armed, and, together with Captain Dunham's artillery, can ren
der efficient service, and will promptly obey orders to report to General
Beauregard or to any other officer in command at any place where you
may desire them to be ordered. Would they not be valuable at Pen-
sacola ?
If the cavalry regiment commanded by Colonel Davis has been mus
tered into service only for twelve months, and I am informed such is
the fact, since the abandonment of the coast defense, the regiment can
render very efficient service in the State, and I think it may be best to
remain in the State, as nearly half the time for which they were mus
tered in has elapsed; but upon this subject I have no choice. One or
two infantry regiments from the State would perhaps render more effi
cient service at less expense and could be more promptly transported
under active service, if necessary. But I confess the suggestions which
I have heretofore made have claimed such slight consideration with the
War Department that it is with diffidence I express an opinion, although
events have proved the correctness of opinions expressed and disre
garded. A month ago I endeavored to impress the mind of the President
and the General Assembly of the State with the fact that in portions of
the State there were traitors at heart who only waited the opportunity
to rally under the protection of the United States flag. It brought
down upon me a torrent of abuse from the press of the State from those
who sympathized with traitors. But my judgment has proved to have
been correct, and I presume there are but few reliable men of intelli
gence in the State who do not accord to me some little foresight and
now cordially support my administration, unless restrained by a species
of self-esteem that I cannot appreciate. I have just been informed by
Judge Walker that Davis' regiment has been registered in the War
Department as having been mustered in for the war instead of twelve
months. Be pleased to inform me if such is the fact.
The Third Regiment, commanded by Col. W. S. Dilworth, has been
well drilled, ana I have requested him to correspond with you as to a
proper field for its action and that of other infantry regiments in the
State.
I have the honor, sir, to be, very respectfully,
JOHN MILTON.
p. g. — Colonel Dilworth and several officers of his regiment have re
quested me to ask of you and General Lee to have them ordered to report
to General Beauregard or some other officer, where they can engage the
enemy. I will write to General Lee by to-morrow's mail. The case
of arms, &c., which was landed at Smyrna, will appear by the report
of Colonel Simpkins to be less than it has been represented, and in his
opinion efficient measures have been adopted to reclaim the property.
I am informed there are 50,000 bales of cotton at Columbus, Ga. j
20,000 at Eufuala ; 10,000 on the bank of the river below there.
476 COASTS OF s. a, GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVL
SPECIAL ORDERS, ) HDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF S. C. AND GA.,
No. 23. J Pocotaligo, April 15, 1862.
*******
VI. Brig. Gen. S. E. Gist will be assigned to duty in tlie Second
Military District, and will report to Brig. Gen. E. S. Eipley, command
ing.
By order of Major-General Pemberton :
J. E. WADDY,
Assistant Adjutant- General.
HDQRS. DEPT, OF SOUTH CAROLINA AND GEORGIA,
Savannah, April 1 8, 1862.
Hon. JAMES CHESNUT, Jr.,
Chief Military Department, Columbia, S. C.:
SIR: On the morning of tbe 16th instant, when on the point of start
ing for Morris Island, Charleston Harbor, I had the honor to receive
your communication, requesting, in the name of the Governor and Ex
ecutive Council, that I would permit the cavalry force, Ward's field
battery, and Graham's battalion of infantry to remain for the present in
the vicinity of Georgetown. Brigadier-General Gist did me the kind
ness to reply in part to your inquiries at my request. For the present
I propose to bring in for the protection of Charleston only Lieutenant-
Colonel Nesbit's battalion. How long I may be able to continue Ward's
battery and Graham's battalion on their present service it is impossible
for me now to say. I will do so, however, until in my judgment tbe
exigencies of the service require their removal. The cavalry corps I
hope to be able to leave where it is ; at all events, I do not design any
change. It is not in my power, and I regret that it is not, to place
these troops under the direct command of any but Confederate officers.
I have no doubt, however, that Colonel Graham, so long as he shall
remain in the neighborhood of Georgetown, will be pleased to act in
concert with General Harllee.
I am, &c..
J. C. PEMBEETON,
Major- General, Commanding.
HDQRS. DEPT. OF SOUTH CAROLINA AND GEORGIA,
Savannah, April 18, 1862.
Maj. A. L. LONG,
Chief of Ordnance and Artillery :
MAJOR : I wish a battery for not less than four guns constructed
immediately on the bluff near the city gas-works. I place the work
under your charge. You will call upon Brigadier-General Lawton for
a detail of not less than 250 men from the troops of his command and
the necessary tools. I desire that no time be lost, and that for the
present you give all your attention to this work.
I am, &c.,
J. C. PEMBEETON,
Major- General, Commanding.
CHAP. XXVI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. CONFEDERATE. 477
GENERAL ORDERS, ) HDQRS. PROV. FORCES, DEPT. E. AND M. FLA.,
Tallahassee, April IS, 18G2.
No. 17. ) (Eeceived at Eichmond, Va., May 1, 1862.)
The undersigned having been appointed brigadier-general in the
Provisional Army of the Confederate States, and assigned by Special
Order, No. 81, from the Secretary of War, to the Department of East
and Middle Florida, hereby assumes command of the same.
The undersigned calls upon officers of all grades to aid him in sup
pressing the vice of intemperance in the army. Duty to the soldier and
the service requires that this should be done at once.
The medical director and the officers of the medical department are
hereby required to institute inquiries in reference to the cause of the large
percentage of sickness among the troops at present, and these officers
are earnestly required to adopt the most efficient measures for the com
fort and convenience of the sick soldiers under their charge.
Capt. J. L. Cross, C. S. Army, is hereby temporarily placed on duty
as assistant adjurant general.
Maj. H. E. Teasdale, brigade quartermaster.
Maj. A. A. Cauova, brigade commissary.
Capt. T. E. Buckman, temporarily as chief of ordnance.
Lieut. J. O. A. Gerry, temporarily as mustering officer.
These officers will be respected and obeyed accordingly in their re
spective departments.
By order of —
JOS. FINEGAN,
Brigadier- General, Commanding.
HEADQUARTERS,
Richmond, Va., April 19, 1862.
Brig. Gen. JOSEPH FINEGAN,
Commanding Department of Florida, Tallahassee, Fla. :
GENERAL : By direction of the general commanding I have the honor
to say that it is not in his power, not knowing the strength of your
command or the particular necessities of your department at this time,
to give definite instructions for your government. The defense of the
interior of the State and the lines of interior communication should be
the subject of your particular attention. The rivers Apalachicola and
Saint John's are of primary importance, and the most eligible points
for their defense should be at once taken, if not already selected, and
fortified. It is not presumed, from present appearances or from any
object likely to be attained, that the enemy will occupy Florida in force.
You should, however, preserve a sufficient body of troops for the pur
poses above mentioned, and also to give protection to any arms, muni
tions, &c., that may be run into any port or that may be necessary to
transport by laud. Except to give protection to the arms, &c., it will
not be prudent to expose a force on the sea-board. Having these objects
in view, the general commanding desires you to inform him whether you
will be able to spare any troops from your command for service in other
parts of the Confederacy.
1 am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
T. A. WASHINGTON,
Major and Assistant Adjutant- General.
478 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVI.
AUGUSTA, GA., April 19, 1862.
Maj. Gen. J. 0. PEMBERTON :
SIR : I take the liberty to inclose an application from several of our
prominent citizens on which we desire immediate action. It has not
been deemed expedient to seek more signatures, though we have no
doubt that the great body of our people would join in it.
It is addressed directly to the head of the Government, but we place
it in your hands as the chief military commander in this quarter for your
approval, with a request that you forward it, indorsed by yourself,
forthwith to Richmond, and should you deem it proper to make the
desired detail on your own authority we would suggest the sooner it is
done the better.
Respectfully, yours,
THOMAS S. METOALF.
P. S. — I also inclose the official action of our city authorities.
[Indorsements.]
HDQRS. DEPT. OF SOUTH CAROLINA AND GEORGIA,
Focotaligo, April 24, 1802.
This letter, addressed to myself by a prominent citizen of Augustar
Ga., together with a copy of a resolution of the city council requesting
the mayor to apply to the proper authorities to have martial law pro
claimed in said city, accompanied the inclosed letter from the mayor to
His Excellency the President of the Confederate States.
In transmitting these papers I beg leave to add that in a telegraphic
dispatch of the 12th instant I had the honor to suggest to General R.
E. Lee, commanding, the propriety of declaring martial law in the cities
of Savannah and Augusta.
In the present disorganized condition of the State troops in Savannah
it is almost a necessity, and I have no doubt would be of great benefit
to Augusta also.
General Gardner, though still suffering from the effect of his wound,
would probably be able to attend to such duties as might devolve upon
him.
J. 0. PEMBERTOX,
Major- General, Command inn.
APRIL 28, 1862.
Respectfully submitted to Secretary of War.
Brig. Gen. [W.] Montgomery Gardner, who is still suffering from
wounds received at battle of Manassas, is in Augusta, and would doubt
less be competent to the discharge of the duties herein referred to.
S. COOPER,
Adjutant and Inspector General.
[Inclosures.]
AUGUSTA, GA., April 19, 1862.
His Excellency President DAVIS :
RESPECTED SIR : We beg leave to call your attention to the neces
sity of having a military commandant at this point, with such power as
will enable him to require all able-bodied men to enroll in such organi
zation as will make them efficient for the defense of our country ; to
CHAP. XXVI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. CONFEDERATE. 479
suppress the sale of liquor, and to do all other things necessary for the
good order and welfare of our community and country. This matter
we most earnestly urge upon your early attention, and if allowable we
would suggest the name of General W. Montgomery Gardner as an ac
ceptable commander for this post.
Respectfully.
ROBT. H. MAY,
Mayor City of Augusta [and others].
At a meeting of the city council of Augusta, held April 15, Mr. Plumb
offered the following resolution :
Resolved, That his honor the mayor be requested to apply to the
proper authorities to have the city of Augusta placed under martial
law.
The above is a true extract of the minutes of council.
A. B. CRUMP,
Deputy Cleric Council*
SAYANNAH, GA., April 19, 1862—8.40 p. m.
Brig. Gen. R. S. RIPLEY:
Is General Evans attacked or attacking? If attacked, let what re-
enforcements you can send be ready to support him toward Rantowles.
I will direct two regiments to be ready to assist him from General
Gregg's command. Answer. Keep your telegraph office open.
J. 0. PEMBEB1O2T.
HDQRS. DEPT. OF SOUTH CAROLINA AND GEORGIA,
Pocotaligoj S. 0., April 19, 1862.
Brig. Gen. MAXCY GREGG,
Commanding Fourth and Fifth Military Districts :
GENERAL : In consequence of recent demonstrations on the part of
the enemy in the Third Military District I am instructed by the major-
general commanding to say that you will hold at least two regiments
of infantry in hand to move to the support of Brigadier-General Evans-
at the shortest notice if required. The train will be at Pocotaligo Sta
tion to furnish the necessary transportation if required.
I am, &c.,
J. R. WADDY,
Assistant Adjutant- General.
SAVANNAH, April 20, 1862—8.40 p. m.
Brig. Gen. A. R. LAWTON,
Commanding District of Georgia :
GENERAL : The Governor of the State of Georgia having authorized
the use of the State arms turned in and about to be turned in by the
State troops going out of the service to be issued to Confederate troops
on the coast of Georgia on condition that they will not be taken out
480 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVL
of the State, you will take possession of tliese arms at once and have
them issued on the terms named by the Government, and not permit
them to leave the city of Savannah.
I am, &c.,
J. O. PEMBERTON,
Major -General, Commanding.
HEADQUARTERS,
Richmond, Va., April 20, 1862.
Maj. Gen. J. C. PEMBERTON,
Commanding Department, Pocotaligo, 8. C. :
GENERAL: I regret very much to be obliged to reduce the force in
your department, and would rather increase it if possible. But from
present appearances it will be necessary to collect additional troops to
oppose the advance of the enemy, who has now reached the Rappahan-
nock, and may move upon Richmond from that direction as well as from
the coast, where he is assembling large bodies of troops, arid I fear there
fore to be obliged to draw further detachments from your department,
and desire you to consider where they can best be spared, and to make
every exertion to arm the new regiments still remaining in Georgia and
South Carolina. 1 have no arms to send from here but pikes, which
you might place in the hands of the men at the batteries, and give their
guns to the troops in the field. By a proper distribution of guns and
pikes in this way the troops that are now unarmed might become
effective. Can you not send on a good brigade for operations on the
Kappahannock ?
I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
R. E. LEE,
General.
RICHMOND, VA., April 21, 1862.
Governor FRANCIS W. PICKENS,
Columbia, S. C. :
The rapid accumulation of enemy's forces on the northeast of Rich
mond requires the transfer of troops from places of greater strength or
of less immediate danger. If General Lee draws on General Pember-
ton for a brigade to defend Richmond can you send fresh troops to
your coast to replace it ?
JEFFERSON DAVIS.
RICHMOND, VA., April 21, 1862.
Major-General PEMBERTON:
A good brigade necessary for the defense of Richmond. Send one as
soon as possible. Enemy preparing to advance from Fredericksburg.
Very respectfully,
R. E. LEE.
HDQRS. DEPT. OF SOUTH CAROLINA AND GEORGIA,
Pocotaligo, April 21, 1862.
Brig. Gen. MAXCY GREGG,
Commanding Fourth and Fifth Military Districts :
GENERAL: I see no probability of obtaining Enfield rifles to arm the
CttAf,xXVl.] CORRESPONDENCE, fiTC. — CONFEDERATE. 481
flank companies of other regiments, unless they are taken from the cen
ter companies of the three Georgia regiments now stationed within the
Fourth and Fifth Military Districts South Carolina. You are desired,
therefore, to take measures to replace, by good, serviceable, smooth-
bored muskets from the Twelfth and Thirteenth Regiments South Caro
lina Volunteers the number of Enfield rifles now in the hands of the two
center companies of Colonels Colquitt and Gibson respectively, and to
transfer them (the rifles) to the flank companies of the Twelfth and
Thirteenth South Carolina Volunteers^ accouterments of the respective
arms to be transferred with them. Further changes of the same kind
will probably become necessary.
Colonel Edwards has as little cause of complaint as any regimental
commander I know of. Not less than 5,000 men hi Confederate service
and for the war are without arms within the limits of this department.
The number is of course daily increasing. It is not in the power of the
Government to supply them at this time.
I am. &c.,
J. C. PEMBERTON,
Major- General, Commanding.
SPECIAL ORDERS, ) HDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF S. C. AND GA.,
No. 27. J Pocotaligo, April 22, 1862.
I. Brig. Gen. Maxcy Gregg will hold himself in readiness to move
immediately, with Thirteenth Regiment South Carolina Volunteers,
Colonel Edwards; Twelfth Regiment South Carolina Volunteers, Colonel
Dunovant, and the Fifty-first Regiment Georgia Volunteers, Colonel
Slaughter, to Richmond, Va.
###**#*
II. That portion of Special Orders, No. 27, referring to moving of
Fifty-first Regiment Georgia Volunteers, Colonel Slaughter, is counter
manded; in place of which regiment Brigadier-General Gregg will
move the Fourteenth Regiment South Carolina Volunteers, Colonel
Jones. The Thirteenth Regiment South Carolina Volunteers, Colonel
Edwards, will take the cars at Green Pond.
III. The German Light Artillery, now with the Thirteenth Regiment
South Carolina Volunteers, Colonel Edwards, will take post with [Capt.
W. D.] Leake's battery near Pocotaligo.
IV. Colonel Colquitt, Forty-sixth Regiment Georgia Volunteers, is
assigned to the command of "the Fourth and Fifth Military Districts,
South Carolina.
By order of Mai or- General Pemberton :
J. R. WADDY,
Assistant Adjutant- General.
RICHMOND, April 22, 1862.
Major-General PEMBERTON:
Governor Pickens recommends Gregg's brigade to be sent here under
my call of yesterday.
Very respectfully,
R. E. LEE*
31 R R — VOL XIV
482 COASTS OF 8. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [QUA*,
ITDQus. DEPT. OF SOUTH CAROLINA AND GEORGIA,
Charleston, April 22, 18G2.
General R. E. LEE, Richmond:
Brigadier-General Gregg and three regiments were ordered to Rich
mond, Va., before the receipt of your last telegram.
J. 0. PEMBERTON,
Major-General, Commanding*
EJDQRS. DEPT. OF SOUTH CAROLINA AND GEORGIA,
Charleston, April 23, 18G2<
Maj. T. A. WASHINGTON, Assistant Adjutant- General:
MAJOR : I have the honor to report that in consequence of the re
moval of so large a part of the infantry force from this department to
other points 1 have deemed it necessary to withdraw all troops except
the cavalry between the Ashepoo and Oketie, and to locate them solely
with reference to the defense of the cities of Charleston and Savannah.
This will leave the Hne of the Charleston and Savannah Railroad with
no other protection than what the cavalry companies can afford, which
is altogether insufficient. Raids of the enemy may consequently be
expected, and perhaps the direct communication between the two cities
be cut off. The railroad connection through Augusta is delayed only
by the want of iron ; if it cannot be procured otherwise I shall have to
impress it. This I have made arrangements to do, if necessary. The
removal of eight regiments from the department leaves a surplus of
transportation, as wagons and mules, &c. ; if needed, some of them
might follow the regiments, though if it is intended to re-enforce this
command they will be required here.
I inclose a report of the strength of Brigadier-General Ripley's divis
ion on April 12. It will be perceived that after deducting Colonel Mar
shall's regiment the whole force for duty is considerably less than 5,000.
I have the honor to report that for the present I shall establish my
headquarters in Charleston.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
J. C. PEMBERTOK,
Major- General, Commanding.
[Inclosare. ]
HDQRS. SECOND MIL. DIST. S. C., Charleston, April 22, 1862.
Abstract of the forces in the Second Military District, South Carolina,
commanded by Brig. Gen. R. S. Ripley, April 12.
Present for duty .. 5,712
Sick 785
Extra duty 457
In confinement 398
7,352
Absent, detached service 327
Absent, sick 706
Absent without leave 124
1, 157
Deduct Marshall's regiment . 1 ' 300
Total present and absent 7,20!)
J. C. PEMBERTON,
Major-General, Comdg.Dept. of South Carolina and Georgia.
OUAP. XXVI. 1 CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. — CONFEDERATE. 483
HEADQUARTERS,
Richmond, Va., April 25, 1862.
His Excellency JOHN MILTON,
Governor of Florida, Tallahassee:
Your letter of the 17th instant is received.* I regret that you should
feel any disappointment that the President did not adopt your recom
mendation in the selection of a brigadier-general to command in Florida.
You will perceive from my former letter that before your recommenda
tion was received the subject had already engaged the attention of the
President and of gentlemen whose deep interest in the cause is well
known and whose acquaintance with the condition of affairs in Florida
naturally gave great weight to their counsel. I am sure Your Excellency
need not be told that in continuing to act under their advice the Pres
ident did not forget the consideration due to your recommendation, and
while he was guided in making the appointment by the advice of those
with whom he was already consulting he did not doubt nor does he
now question that the interest felt by all concerned in the subject would
secure the attainment of the great object, the advancement of our com
mon cause. Your Excellency's assurance of your readiness to co-operate
fully with General Finegan is only what the President expected from
your known attachment to the country and disinterested devotion to
the cause, and with your aid the President sincerely hopes that a result
will be attained which will satisfy you that the promotion of the inter
ests of the country was the controlling motive of those with whom he
counselled, as he is persuaded that it is your own. With reference to
the proclamation of martial law in the counties designated by General
Floyd, the President desires ine to say that he does not think the facts
stated would justify him in exercising the power. He hopes that the
civil authorities, aided by the military, which can always be used for
that purpose, will prove sufficient for the emergency, if Your Excel
lency possesses the power under the laws of Florida to proclaim martial
law you will of course judge of the necessity of such a measure for
yourself.
I am, Governor, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
K. E. LEE,
General.
HDQRS. DEPT. OF SOUTH CAROLINA AND GEORGIA,
Charleston, April 27, 1862.
General S. COOPER,
Adjutant and Inspector General :
GENERAL: I have the honor to report that I have established the
headquarters of this department for the present at Charleston, S. C.
Very respectfully, &c.,
J. C. PEMBERTON,
Major- Genera I, Commanding.
HDQRS. DEPT. OF SOUTH CAROLINA AND GEORGIA,
Charleston, April 28, 1862.
General S. COOPER,
Adjutant and Inspector General :
GENERAL : I desire to bring to the consideration of the War Depart-
* Not found.
484 COASTS OF S, C., GA., AND MlD. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. iXVL
ment the importance of connecting through Savannah the Albany,
Gulf and Georgia Central Railroad.
The rolling stock of the Albany and Gulf road is considerable, includ
ing some ten locomotives. Should the enemy ever succeed against
Savannah all this stock must be lost for want of this connection, not ex
ceeding three-fourths of a mile.
I have endeavored to impress upon the officers of the company the
risk they run in neglecting to have this work done. They still decline,
however, to undertake it at the cost of the company entirely, but are
willing to bear one half thfc expenses. This road is doing very little
business, and might readily spare some of its rolling stock to other roads
not so well supplied. If the war continues we shall need every locomo
tive in the Confederacy. It seems to me therefore good policy to expend
a sum not exceeding $6,000 to secure so important an object.
I am, &c.,
J. C. PEMBERTON,
Major- General, Commanding.
HDQRS. DEPT. OF SOUTH CAROLINA AND GEOROIA,
Charleston, April 28, 1862.
Capt. W. H. TAYLOR,
Assistant Adjutant- General :
CAPTAIN: I ?iave the honor to acknowledge the receipt of General
E. E. Lee's letter of the 25th instant in relation to the transfer of Brig.
Gen. It. S. Itipley from this department for service in Virginia. General
Kipley has made an official application to be relieved from duty here
for service in the field. The application was forwarded through this
office some days since with my indorsement. I do not think General
Eipley can be spared at this time. His knowledge of everything con
nected with Charleston and its defenses is of great value. I know of
no one now within the department who can replace him. This com
mand has been so much reduced, and is in many regiments so badly
and insufficiently armed, that I trust at least a portion of those just re
ceived by the Cecile may be placed in the hands of these troops. At
'least 5,000 stand are needed to completely equip the different regiments.
In addition to the unarmed troops reported by telegraph on the 26th
instant there is a battalion of infantry and a company of artillery at
Griffin of the last levies of Georgia troops.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
J. C. PEMBERTON,
Major- General, Commanding.
HEADQUARTERS,
Richmond, Va., April 29, 1862.
Brig. Gen. JOSEPH FINEOAN,
Commanding Department, Tallahassee, Fla. :
GENERAL: I am directed by General Lee to acknowledge the receipt
of your letter of the 19th instant ;* also one of same date to General
Cooper, which has been referred to him, and to say in reply to the
former that the arms recently landed at Smyrna have already been dis-
* Not ibund.
CHAP. XXVI.J CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. CONFEDERATE. 485
tributed. The demand for small-arms is urgent from nil sides, and in
their distribution it is endeavored to supply those points most seriously
threatened. The general hopes that you will spare no effoits to collect
all the private arms possible to be obtained, and endeavor in this way
to arm the new troops in Florida. By telegram' of 19th instant yon
were instructed to forward Dil worth's regiment at once to Corinth,
which it is hoped is by this time with General Beauregard, where ifc is
much needed. As regards the defenses of the Apalachicola, which forms
the subject of your letter to General Cooper, he agrees ful'y with yon in
regarding them of the utmost importance, and wishes you to strengthen
the works at Eicco's Bluff, or such other points as you may select, as
much as your means will admit. General Samuel Jones, commanding
Department of Alabama and West Florida, has been directed to send you
any guns taken from Pensacola which he can spare from the defenses
of Mobile, for the purpose of defending the Apalachicola, Saint John's,
and other rivers. You will make such distribution of the number he
may send you as may appear most judicious, and correspond with Gen
eral Jones as to what guns he can spare you and the best plan of trans
porting them to your department.
I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
W. H. TAYLOE,
Assistant Adjutant- General.
HDQRS. DEPT. OF MIDDLE AND EAST FLORIDA,
April 29, 1862. (Eeceived JMay 13, 1862.)
General S. COOPER,
Adjutant and Inspector- General :
GENERAL: I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your letter
of the 19th instant, and in conformity thereto have respectfully to report,
for the information of the general commanding, that after the removal
of the First Florida Cavalry, now under orders for the West, and of the
Third Eegimeut Florida Volunteers, now en route for Corinth, it would
not be prudent to send more armed troops out of the State at present.
Most of the new regiments recently organized by the State for Con
federate service are without arms and hence not available for service
against the enemy. The enemy have been in full possession of the Saint
John's Eiver since they first entered it, and frequently go up as far as
Palatka with their gunboats. There are two 8-inch Columbians at Yolu-
sia, some 125 miles above Jacksonville. If I can evade the vigilance of
the enemy I will get these guns down the river and place them in bat
tery below Jacksonville at a suitable point on the river selected for that
purpose.
I leave here to-morrow for the Apalachicola Eiver to select a proper
site for another battery.
With great respect, vour obedient servant,
JOS. FINEGAN,
Brigadier- General, Commanding.
IlDQRS. DEPT. OF SOUTH CAROLINA AND GEORGIA,
Charleston, April 29, 1862.
Brig. Gen. N. G. EVANS,
Commanding Third Military District :
GENERAL: General Eipley will send you at once a regiment to take
486
COASTS OF S. C., GA., AN7D MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVL
post at Ranfowles-; also a battery of field artillery to replace Preston's,
which I wish to move immediately to Jacksoriborongh. Endeavor to
prevent the destruction of the railroad bridge at Jacksonborough with
your field artillery. Let me hear at once the present state of affairs.
Sink the obstructions at Church Flats immediately.
J. 0. PEMBERTON.
CHARLESTON, April 29, 1862.
General S, COOPER, Richmond :
Upon the application of the local commander, Brigadier-General
Eiplcy, and by the consent of the Governor and Executive Council, I
request that martial law may be proclaimed from the Santee River to
the South Edisto, inclusive.
J. C. PEMBERTOX,
Major- Genera /, Commanding.
RICHMOND, VA., April 30, 1862.
Governor PICKENS,
Of South Carolina, Columbia, S. C. :
I defer to your opinion of the necessity of martial law, as proposed,
and will act in conjunction with you. In anticipation of orders by mail,
a telegram will be sent to General Pembertou to sustain the declaration
if made by you.
JEFFERSON DAVIS.
Abstract from Eeturn of the Department of South Carolina and Georgia, Maj. Gen. John
C. Pemberton commanding, for April, 1862.
Presen
du
fc for
ty-
I
£-5
C.CJ
Command.
Officers.
1
Aggregate p
Aggregate
and abae
First Military District, S. C
77
1 or>o
1 254
1 445
Second Military District, S. C
398
6 834
8 672
10 596
Third Military District, S. C
267
3 606
5 400
5 QEO
Fourth Military District, S. C...
73
1 087
1 f>-v2
1 854
Fifth Military Distrfct, S. C .
99
1 611
2 2 "2
2 4159
Sixth Military District, S. C
174
2 597
3 l-*5
8 397
Military District of Georgia:
1st Brigade
222
3 185
4 251
4 940
2d Brigade
3°5
4 806
6 157
7 883
Total
1 635
24 836
32 683
38 493
CHAP. XXVI.J CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. CONFEDERATE.
4«7
Military organizations in the Department of South Carolina and Georgia,
April t$0, 18G2; Maj. Gen. John C.Pembcrton, C. S.Army, commanding.*
DISTRICT OF GEORGIA.
Brig. Gen. ALEXANDER R. LAWTON commanding.
First Brigade.
Brig. Gen. W. D. SMITH.
:31st Georgia.
38th Georgia.
39th [30th] Georgia.
4th Georgia Battalion.
7th Georgia Battalion.
2d Georgia Cavalry Battalion.
Georgia Hussars, Company B.
4th Louisiana Battalion.
Chatham (Ga.) Artillery.
Terrell (Ga.) Artillery.
Second Brigade.
Brig. Gen. H. W. MERCER.
1st Ga.(Vols.),Lieut.Col. W.S.Rockwell.
13th Georgia, Col. Marcellus Douglass.
25th Georgia, Col. C. C. Wilson.
26th Georgia, Col. C. W. Styles.
29th Georgia, Col. William J. Young.
50th Georgia, Col. W. R. Manning.
3d Ga. Cav. Bat'n, Maj. D. L. Clinch.
8th Georgia Battalion, Capt. Isaac Davis,
llth Georgia Battalion, Lieut. Col. G. W.
M. Williams.
Savannah Volunteer Guards, Capt. W. S.
Busiuger.
Chatham Light Horse, Capt. R. F. Akin.
Effingham Hussars, Capt. Edward Bird.
Hardwick Mounted Rilles, Capt. J. L.
McAllister.
Georgia Lt. Art. , Co. D, Capt. Jacob Read.
Staunton Hill (Va.) Art., Capt. C.Bruce.
Maj. E. C. Anderson's command.
SOUTH CAROLINA DISTRICTS.*
INFANTRY.
Phillips' (Georgia) Legion, Col. William
Phillips.
1st S. C., Col. Johnson Hagood.
llth S. C., Col. William C. Hey ward,
loth S. C., Col. W. D. Do Saus&ure.
16th S. C., Col. James McCullough.
17th 8.-C., Col. J. H. Means.
18th S. C., Col. J. M. Gadberry.
20th S. C., Col. L. M. Keitt.
22d S. C., Col. Joseph Abney.
24th S. C., Col. C. II. Stevens.
3d S. C., Battalion, Lieut. Col. G. S.
Ja,ines.
:5th S. C., Bat'n, Lieut. Col. J. V. Moore.
6th S. C., Bat'n, Maj E. Manigault.
7th S. C., Bat'n, Maj. P. H. Nelson.
9th S. C., Bat'n, Lieut. Col. A. D. Smith.
11th S. C., Bat'u, Maj. Chas. H. Simonton.
•Charleston Bat'n, Lieut. Col. P. C. Gail-
lard.
Coast Rangers, Col. L. M. Hatch.
Fort Johnson, Maj. T. G. Lamar.
Holcombo Legion, Col. P. F. Stevens.
Zouave Company, L. C. McCord.
Gunboat Rattlesnake.
ARTILLERY.
1st South Carolina Regiment.
Caroline (Va.) Art., Capt. T. R. Thornton.
Lafayette (S. C.) Art., Capt. J. T. Kana-
paux.
Macbeth (S. C.) Art., Capt. R. Boyce.
Marion (S. C.) Art. (one section), Capt.
E. L. Parker.
Sieg« Train (S. C.), Lieut. Col. C. K. Huger.
Washington^ S.C.)Art., Capt. G.H.Walter.
White's (S. C.) Bat'n, Maj. E. B. White.
CAVALRY.
1st S. C. Bat'n, Lieut. Col. J. L. Black.
4th S. C. Bat'n, Maj. W. K. Easley.
Ashley Dragoons, Capt. C. J. Colcock.
Barnwell Dragoons, Capt. B. W. Lawton.
German Hussars, Capt. T. Cordes.
Jeffbrd's Squadron.
Mulligan's Co., Capt. A.'B. Mulligan.
Rebel Troopr Capt. John Jenkins.
St. Peter's Guards, Capt. II. C. Smart.
Savannah River Guards, Capt. T. 11. John
son.
Willington Rangers, Capt. W. L. Disher.
Calhoun Mounted Men, Capt. A.M. Martin.
* Remarks on original return report the 10th and 19th South Carolina and the 8th
and 16th Tennessee ordered to Army of the West ( Beauregard's), and the 12th, 13th,
and 14th South Carolina and Orr's Rifles ordered to Virginia.
t Commanded as follows: First, Col. Robert F. Graham; Second, Brig. Gen. R. S.
Ripley ; Third, Brig. Gen. N. G. Evans; Fourth and Fifth, Col. P. H. Colqnitt; Sixth,
Brig. Gen. T. F. Dray ton. The organizations in First, Fourth^ and Fifth Military
districts not given in original return.
488
COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAI-. XXVI.
Abstract from Monthly R& urn of the troops of the Department of East and Middle Florida,
commanded by Brig. Gen. Joseph Finegan, for April, 1862.
Troops.
Prese
di
I
nt for
ity.
1
4>
A
«f
*a
g
jj
•Sf
35
26
31
19
4
1
2
2
5
4
2
2
2
4
4
2
4
3
3
3
480
440
511
152
67
82
35
50
74
109
98
35
57
40
76
50
57
95
58
39
592
587
665
298
71
84
37
59
79
113
112
37
61
51
80
54
68
115
61
45
812
856
782
492
98
94
87
71
146
113
120
55
78
62
80
93
84
116
71
83
Grand total
158
2,605
3,269
4,393
TALLAHASSEE, May 1, 1862.
General S. COOPER,
Adjutant and Inspector General :
GENERAL : I have the honor to inclose, for the information of the
general-in-chief, an appeal to the people of Florida to destroy their cot
ton on the near approach of the enemy, &c.
With great respect,
JOSEPH FINEGAN,
Brigadier- General, Commanding.
[Inclosure.]
HEADQUARTERS PROVISIONAL FORCES, .
DEPARTMENT OF EAST AND MIDDLE FLORIDA,
Tallahassee, May 1, 1862.
To the People of Florida :
The commanding general of this military department thinks it his
duty to request all persons owning or having the control of cotton
within this department to have it so placed that if necessary it may^
be burned without injury to other property. A confident appeal is
made to the patriotic citizens of the State to destroy their cotton on
the near approach of the enemy rather than permit it to fall into the
hands of the invaders of our country.
The commanding general will endeavor to protect every portion of
his department, but if the means at his command should prove inade
quate to repel a large force penetrating the country, he will not hesitate
to order the destruction of all the cotton rather than suffer it to pass
into the possession of an enemy whose purposes are those of plunder
and subjugation. It is not presumed from present appearances or from
CHAP. XXVI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. CONFEDERATE. 489
any object likely to be attained that the enemy will invade Florida in.
force, bat it is thought advisable that our people be prepared for any
emergency that may occur.
JOS. FINEGAN,
Brigadier- General, Commanding Middle and East Florida.
GENERAL ORDERS, ) WAR DEPT., ADJT. AND INSP. GEN.'S OFFICE,
No. 33. ] Richmond, Va., May 1, 1862.
1. The following proclamation is published for the information of all
concerned :
PROCLAMATION.
By virtue of the power vested in ine by law to declare the suspension of the privi
lege of the writ of habeas corpus :
I. Jefferson Davis, President of the Confederate States of America, do proclaim that
martial law is hereby extended over that part of the State of South Carolina from
the Santee River to the South Edisto River, in that State, under the command of Ma
jor-General Pembertou; and Ido proclaim the suspension of all civil jurisdiction (with
the exception of that enabling the courts to take cognizance of the probate of wills,
the administration of the estates of deceased persons, the qualification of guardians, to
enter decrees and orders for the partition au<l sale of property, to make orders con
cerning roads afcd bridges, to assess county levies, and to order the payment of county
dues), and the suspension of the writ of habeas corpus in the country aforesaid.
In faith whereof I have hereunto signed my name and set my seal this first day of
May, in the year one thousand eight hundred and sixty-two.
JEFFERSON DAVIS.
II. Maj. Gen. J. O. Pemberton, commanding the Department of South
Carolina and Georgia, is charged with the due execution of the fore
going proclamation. He will forthwith establish an efficient military
police and will enforce the following orders:
All distillation of spirituous liquors is positively prohibited, and the
distilleries will forthwith be closed. The sale of spirituous liquors of
any kind is also prohibited and establishments for the, sale thereof will
be closed.
III. All persons infringing the above prohibition will suffer such pun
ishment as shall be ordered by the sentence of a court-martial ; pro
vided that no sentence to hard labor for more than one mouth shall be
inflicted by the sentence of a regimental court-martial, as directed by
the 67th article of war.
By command of the Secretary of War :
S. COOPER,
Adjutant and Inspector General.
CHARLESTON, S. C., May 2, 1862.
General PEMBERTON :
DEAR SIR : As it is reported that martial law will likely be proclaimed
over the city I desire most respectfully to call your attention to an im
portant matter touching the quiet and loyalty of our colored population.
There are of this class in the city about 20,000, of whom 10,000 are mem
bers of the church, 6,000 being in communion with the Methodist de
nomination alone. TLis accounts for the unprecedented quiet, good
behavior, and loyalty which have hitherto characterized this numerous
class of domestics. From a pastorate of more than six years in^this
490 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVI.
my native city I am convinced that religion creates the strongest tie
between servant and master, and that the ministry thereby constitute
the strongest police of municipal and of domestic order. So long there
fore as the subduing restraints of Christianity are kept vigorously at
play among the colored people we may expect to check insubordination
tbat must ensue should they be thrown on the community inflamed with
false hopes of liberation, or left to congregate in idleness, or to seek em
ployment in villainy. My mind was profoundly called to this subject,
and I have made extraordinary exertions to keep this religious element
at work in my charge, composed of about 2,000 colored members, who
worship in the same church with a very large white communion. A most
gracious work is now progressing among them; many have been con
verted and many added to the church. The same work is going on in two
other large Methodist churches in the city. Our meetings begin at
8 o'clock p. m. and continue to 9.30 o'clock, and I suppose 2,000 or 3,000
worship every night in our churches under the supervision of white per
sons.
Without presuming to counsel one in whom the custody of our be
loved city is so well reposed, permit me respectfully to suggest, should
martial law be proclaimed, no action be taken to curtail the religious
privileges of our colored population. Allow them to meet as usual, and
I think they will be more contented, quiet, and loyal. ^VTe must trust
God, who can overrule the storin and subdue the proud waves beneath
our feet.
I have the honor to be, most respectfully, your humble servant and
colaborer in the cause of our bleeding country,
JOHN T. WIGTITMAlSr,
Pastor of Trinity Church*
HDQRS. DEFT. OF SOUTH CAROLINA AND GEORGIA.
Charleston, May 2, 1862.
CHARLES MACBETH, Esq.,
Mayor of Charleston :
DEAR SIR : I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your let
ter of yesterday's date, in which you say that you u deem it absolutely
necessary that I (you) should be informed of your (my) intended course
of action in the event of the enemy's gunboats passing our fonts and
presenting themselves in front of the city." You then add, " Oblige me
therefore by informing me whether in such an event you (I) intend to
make any resistance in the city itself, or whether you (1) would pursue
the course adopted by General Lovell, of New Orleans — that is, retire
with your (my) troops and leave the city in the hands of the civil author
ities," &c.
In reply to these inquiries I can at present only say that in all
probability martial law will be proclaimed, within a day or two in
this city and in the neighboring country. I shall then advise the with
drawal of women and children, as it may become necessary to defend
the city. I cannot at this time express my intentions as to the course
to be pursued in the event of the enemy's gunboats passing our forts
and presenting themselves in front of the city. This calamity may not
occur at all; it may be very remote; it is possibly near at hand. The
circumstances of to-day may be materially changed before the enemy
is prepared to make his attack. The force at my disposal may be some-
CHAP. XXVI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. CONFEDERATE. 491
what increased or much diminished. You will readily perceive how
important a bearing these and other conditions which will occur to you
must have upon my decision when the time arrives to declare it. I do
not, however, hesitate to say that in my opinion it is advisable that
women and children should leave the city at ouce.
Very respectfully,
J. 0. PEMBERTON,
Major- General, Commanding.
HEADQUARTERS,
Eichmond, Va., May 3, iS62.
Maj. Gen. J. C. PEMBEHTON,
Commanding, tfcc., Charleston:
GENERAL: It is not in my power at this time to send you re enforce
ments, and I wish the surplus transportation referred to in your letter
of April 23 to be sent to this place as soon as possible. The Quarter
master-General advises that your surplus wagons be sent by Northeast
ern Railway to Cheraw, under direction of an officer, and proceed thence
to Danville by the ordinary roads.
I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
B. E. LEE,
General, Commanding.
IIDQRS. DEPT. OF SOUTH CAROLINA AND GEORGIA,
Charleston. May 5, 1862.
General S. COOPER,
Adjutant and Inspector General :
GFNERAL : I learn indirectly from Capt. R. M. Cuyler, ordnance officer
at Savannah, Ga,, that there are in Richmond, Va., several columhiads,
8-inch and 10-inch, which 1 might possibly obtain on immediate applica
tion for the defense of Savannah. 1 have had batteries constructed on
the bluff at the lower end of the city, for which guns of the heaviest cali
ber are desirable. Should the enemy succeed in passing the batteries
on the Hats below the city with these guns in position on the bluff the
city itself might perhax)S still be held.
I ani, &c.,
J. C. PEMBERTON,
Major- General? Commanding.
GENERAL ORDERS, ) HDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF S. C. AND GA.,
No. 11. ( Charleston, 8. C., May 5, 1862.
I. Martial law having been proclaimed by His Excellency Francis W.
Pickens, Governor of the State of South Carolina, and the Executive
Council thereof, acting together, in terms and figures as follows :
PROCLAMATION OF MARTIAL LAW.
STATE OF SOUTH CAROLINA, EXECUTIVE DEPARTMENT,
Columbia, May 1, 1862.
Whereas by virtue of an ordnance adopted by the people of South Caiolina in Con
vention assembled on the 7th day of January, A. 1). 186:2, power is given to the Gov
ernor and Executive Council, acting together, to declare martial law to such extent,
in such places, and at such times as shall be required by the exigency of public affairs :
492 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVL
Now know ye that I, Framis W. Pickena, Governor and cominander-iu-chief in and
over the State of South Carolina, together with the Executive Council, in the exercise
of the joint authority thus given, do hereby proclaim that from and after the 5th day
of May instant, until farther orders, martial law is hereby established and proclaimed
in and over the city of Charleston, and 10 miles 011 all sides beyond the corporate
limits thereof, and ovt-r the islands adjacent thereto, and full power and authority are
vested in the Confederate general commanding in South Carolina to enforce the same ;
and it is further ordered by and under the authority vested in the Governor and Exec
utive Council, and I do hereby establish and proclaim that from and after the 3d
May instant the Confederate general commanding in South Carolina shall be, and
he is hereby, vested with power and authority within the country south of the Santeo
River, including the parishes of Saint James Santee, Saint Stephen's, Saint John's
Berkeley, Saint Thomas and Saint Dennis, Christ Church, Saint Andrew's, Saint
George's Dorchester, Saint James GOOSH Cieek, Saint Paul's, Saint John's Colleton,
Saint Bartholomew's, Prince William's, Saint Luke's, and Saint Peter's to the Savan
nah River, to impress labor of all kinds for public works and defense in a manner as
full and unlimi td as if martial law were therein established and proclaimed.
In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the great seal of the
State at Columbia this the first day of May, in the year of our Lord one thousand
eight hundred and sixty-two.
F. W. PICKENS.
Official copy :
F. J. MOSES, JR.,
Private Secretary.
Now, therefore, I, John C. Pemberton, major-general commanding the,
Department of South Carolina and Georgia and the forces therein, do,
by direction of the President of the Confederate States, sustain the said
proclamation, and announce the suspension of all civil jurisdiction (with
the exception of that enabling the courts to take cognizance of the pro
bate of wills, the administration of the estates of deceased persons, the
qualification of guardians, to enter decrees and orders for the partition
and sale of property, to make orders concerning roads arid bridges, to
assess county levies, to order the payment of county dues) and the sus
pension of the writ of habeas corpus in and over the city of Charleston,
and 10 miles on all sides beyond the corporate limits thereof, and over
the islands adjacent thereto.
II. Col. Johnson Hagood, First Kegiment South Carolina Volunteers,
is appointed provost-marshal, and is, under the direction of Brig. Gen.
It. S. Kipley, commanding Second Military District, charged with the
due execution of the foregoing proclamation and order. He will forth
with establish an efficient military police, and will enforce the following
orders :
All distillation of spirituous liquors is positively prohibited, and the
distilleries will forthwith be closed. The sale of* spirituous liquors of
any kind is ;>lsb prohibited and establishments for the sale thereof will
be closed.
III. All persons infringing the above prohibition will suffer such
punishment as shall be ordered by the sentence of a court martial ;
provided, that no sentence to hard labor for more than one month shall
be inflicted by the sentence of a regimental court-martial, as directed by
the 67th article of war.
J. C. PEMBERTON,
Major- General, Commanding.
MILLEDGEVILLE, GA., May 6, 1862.
General K. E. LEE:
^ If the authorities of Augusta and Savannah desire martial law and
General Pemberton thinks it a military necessity I have no objection.
JOS. E. BKOWN.
CHAP. XXVI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. — CONFEDERATE. 493
SPECIAL ORDERS, ) HDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF S. C. AND GA.,
No. 40. f Charleston, May 6, 1862.
I. Col. William S. Walker, Provisional Army of the Confederate States,
is relieved from duty as acting inspector of this department, and is
assigned to the command of the Fourth and Fifth Military Districts of
South Carolina, embracing all that country between the Ashepoo River
on the one side and Oketie Creek on the other.
* * # * * # *
•
By order of Major- General Pemberton :
J. R. WADDY,
Assistant Adjutant- General.
SPECIAL ORDERS, ) HDQRS. 2D MIL. DIST. OF SOUTH CAROLINA,
No. 324. J Charleston, May 6, 1862.
As soon as the batteries at Cole's Island can be dismantled the fol
lowing disposition will be made of the guns: One 10-inch columbiad,
one 8-inch columbiad, three 42s, two smooth-bore 32s, and one rifled
32-pounder will be sent to the new fortifications at Elliott's Cut, to be
under charge of Major Lucas; one 10-inch columbiad and two navy 32s
will be sent to Charleston to the ordnance officer at headquarters Second
Military District; the remaining guns, including all on siege carriages,
will be sent to Minottfs Bluff, to be located on the lines east of James
Island Creek, to be turned over to Maj. E. B. White.
#*#*#*#
III. Maj. E. B. White will, as soon as the works are in readiness,
place the siege guns in position on the lines west of James Island
Creek. He will consult with Captain Gregorie, engineer in charge.
###****
V. Under instructions which will be given by Brigadier- General
Gist, a detachment from Maj. T. G. Lamar's battalion will move and
take charge of the mounting and equipment of the guns on the lines
east of James Island Creek, consulting Captain Gregorie, engineer in
charge, as to the readiness of the fortifications to receive them.
VI. The guns now in position at Battery Island will as soon as
practicable be transferred to the lines east of James Island Creek, and
placed in position as directed in paragraph 5.
*******
R. S. EIPLEY,
Brigadier- General, Commanding.
WAR DEPARTMENT, C. S. A.,
Richmond, Va., May 7, 1862.
Maj. Gen. J. C. PEMBERTON,
Comdg. Dept. of South Carolina, Georgia, &$. :
GENERAL: I send to you, by the Hon. Alfred Iverson, a communica
tion addressed by the mayor of Columbus, Ga., in reference to the
defense of the Chattahoochee River, and commend it to your consider
ation. Mr. Iverson, being well acquainted with the locality, may be
able to render you some assistance, especially in procuring labor.
You will have a reconnaissance of the river made by a competent
494 COASTS OF s. a, GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP,
engineer, and cause it to be obstructed at the most suitable point for
locating and defending tbe obstruction.
The introduction of small iron-clad steamers into the coast opera
tions of the enemy renders it necessary to change our plans of river
defenses, and to rely upon obstructions more than we have heretofore.
For the reasons assigned in the letter of the mayor no time should
be lost in completing the necessary obstructions and batteries.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
G. W. RANDOLPH,
Secretary of War.
HDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF MIDDLE AND EAST FLORIDA,
Tallahassee, May 7, Iz62.
General S. COOPER,
Adjutant and Inspector- General:
SIR: Under authority heretofore issued by the Secretary of War
for raising companies, battalions, and regiments for the war several
companies of cavalry have applied to be mustered into service. When
these additional companies are mustered I will have nine companies of
cavalry. Two or three of the nine companies are unarmed, and about
one full regiment of infantry is unarmed. As soon as the monthly
returns are received from the distant posts I will make out a return of
the strength of this command.
I have the honor to inclose an appeal to the people of Florida for
arms.
I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
JOS. FINEGAN,
Brigadier- General, Commanding.
[Inclosnre.]
HEADQUARTERS PROVISIONAL FORCES,
DEPARTMENT OF EAST AND MIDDLE FLORIDA,
Tallahassee, May 6, 1862.
To the People of Florida :
The commanding general of this department is constrained by the
great necessities of the public service to appeal to you for the surrender
of a sufficient number of your private arms to furnish one or two of your
own regiments now organized and ready for service. Shot-guns, double
and single barreled, rifles, and muskets caii be rendered available, and
will be received, appraised, and receipted for by any Confederate officer
in the State, and paid for by the Government. Citizens having in their
possession or knowing of the possession by others of any of the arms,
accouterraents or Government stores landed at New Smyrna are re
quested to deliver them to some Confederate officer or to give such in
formation as will secure them to the Government.
The preservation of all which is valuable to you now demands your
unwearied devotion to the public interests. The battles on which your
rights and liberties depend are to be fought by armed men, and your
Government now earnestly exhorts you to place the arms which you
have hitherto kept for your own convenience in the hands of our
brave soldiers who are destined to meet your enemies on the field of
battle.
XiVlj CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. — -CONFEDERATE. 495
Unless you make a generous response to this appeal regiments which
might otherwise turn defeat into victory will be compelled to remain
unarmed and idle spectators of bloody fields, where your sons and
brothers may be perishing for need of their assistance.
JOS. FIXEGAN,
Brigadier-General, Commanding.
HDQRS. DEPT. OP SOUTH CAROLINA AND GEORGIA,
Charleston, May 8, 1SG2.
Brig. Gen. K. S. EIPLEY,
Commanding Second Military District:
GENERAL : It has always been my intention, and I have so informed
you in conversation, to occupy Cole's Island, after the removal of the
guns to Elliott's Cut, with a regiment of infantry or with as many com
panies as can be conveniently located in the quarters now standing.
My reasons for so determining were given in these conversations, and
were, first, the healthfuluess of the position; second, the facilities af
forded by a good road to reach the line of intrenchments, skirmishing
if necessary while falling back to their cover; no tents for any purpose nor
on any pretense to be kept on the island ; the troops to be always ready
to move at a moment's notice ; no baggage beyond the minimum allow
ance of the regulations for field service to officers or men.
Cole's Island is regarded as an advanced post, and being without artil-
lerj^, the officer in command is not of course expected to defend it against
gunboats. It should, however, be defended against parties of the enemy
in small boats, unless the proximity of his gunboats should endanger the
safety of the troops, in which event (and this must be left to the discretion
of the officer in command) they will be immediately withdrawn from
the island. With proper vigilance on the part of officers and men there
is no reasou to apprehend a surprise. I repeat that it is not expected
that the island will be defended against gunboats. The troops may be
withdrawn, and all baggage, with the wagons, sent off on the first indi
cation of an intention of the enemy to approach.
Not more than three days' subsistence should be kept on hand. You
can of course retain the same corps permanently on the island or relieve
it at your discretion by another at such intervals as you may deem
proper.
I have been thus particular in my instructions because you have sug
gested that they be given.
Very respectfully, &o.,
J. C. PEMBEKTON,
Major- General, Commanding.
CHARLESTON, May 8, 18G2.
General E. E. LEE, Richmond, Va.:
The mayor and aldermen of Savannah do not wish martial law pro
claimed. I think it should be.
J. C. PEMBEKTON,
Major- General, Commanding.
496 COASTS OF s. a, GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. xxvi.
HDQRS. DEPT. OF SOUTH CAROLINA AND GEORGIA,
Charleston, May 8, 18G2.
Governor BROWN, Milledgevitte, Ga. :
I am asked from Richmond whether the authorities wish martial law
proclaimed in Savannah. I desire it. Answer.
J. 0. PEMBEKTONj
Major- General, Commanding.
HDQRS. DEPT. OF SOUTH CAROLINA AND GEORGIA,
May 8, 1862.
W. J. MAGRATH,
President Charleston and Savannah Railroad :
DEAR SIR: In reply to your communication of the 6th instant* I
have the honor to state that in my opinion the business of the road
should as far as practicable be not interrupted during the coming sum
mer. It is true there will be comparatively little to be done in the way
of transporting troops or Government supplies; still emergencies nuiy
arise which would make it necessary to forward troops from either city
to the support of the other or for the protection of intermediate points
on the road. My own duties will frequently require my presence in
Savannah, and perhaps at times when I may not be able to avail myself
of the regular trains this will require a special train. I think therefore
that unless the road or this city is immediately threatened it would be
better to continue its business as heretofore.
Very respectfullv, &c.,
J. C. PEMBERTON,
Major- General Commanding.
SPECIAL ORDERS. | MAY 8, 1862.
No. 335. }
I. The channels of approach to the city of Charleston will be ob
structed to prevent the passage of vessels of the enemy as speedily and
effectually as possible.
II. Capt. Francis D. Lee, engineer, is charged with a general super
vision of the work, and especially with the construction and location of
piers and sunken obstructions.
III. John R. Cheves, esq., is charged with supervision of the chain
and boom obstructions, as well as the submarine batteries in connection
therewith.
IV. Francis J. Porcher, esq., will take the superintendence of pro
curing labor, tools, material, and arranging matters, in connection with
parties employed on the work not in military service, and to forward
the operations as much as may be practicable.
V. Each of the persons named above have authority to employ such
assistants as may be necessary, and .such force, either by hiring, volun
tary labor, or otherwise, as may be directed from these headquarters or
as may be required for the prosecution of the work, and to obtain by
purchase or such method as may be approved such materials as shall
be needed.
*Not found.
CHAI-. XXVI.J CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. CONFEDERATE. 497
VI. It is to be remembered that dispatch and diligence are especially
required, and it is hoped that all will be done to expedite the work
which lies in the power of those charged with its execution.
By order of Brigadier-General Eipley:
LEO. D. WALKEE,
Assistant Adjutant- General
CHARLESTON, May 9, 1862.
General E. E. LEE, Richmond:
Governor Brown says:
I have no objections to martial law in Savannah if the people desire it. You have
with the consent of the President, full power in the premises.
I think it necessary that it should be.
J. C. PEMBEETON,
Major- General, Commanding.
HEADQUARTERS,
Richmond, Va., May 9, 1862.
Maj. Gen. J. C. PEMBERTON,
Commanding Department of Charleston, 8. C. :
GENERAL : I have received your telegram of this date, giving Gover
nor Brown's assent to the establishment of martial law in Savannah, if
the people desire it. The subject has before been under consideration.
The President is unwilling to declare martial law over any section
unless it is absolutely necessary for the security of the public good or
desired by the community. As it appears to be objected to by the
citizens and authorities of Savannah he does not feel justified in
making the declaration until it becomes a positive necessity, and it
would be of little avail to proclaim martial law in Augusta" without
doing it in Savannah.
I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
E. E. LEE.
GENERAL ORDERS, ) HDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF S. C. AND GA.,
No. 15. f Charleston, May 9, 1862.
I. The President of the Confederate States having by proclamation
extended martial law over that part of the State of South Carolina from,
the Santee Eiver to the South Edisto Eiver, and having proclaimed the
suspension of all civil jurisdiction (with theexception of that enabling the
courts to take cognizance of the probate of wills, the administration of
the estates of deceased persons, the qualification of guardians, to enter
decrees and orders for the partition and sale of x>roperty, to make or
ders concerning roads and bridges, to assess county levies, and to order
the payment of county dues), and the suspension of the writ of habeas
corpus in the country aforesaid; therefore the operation of General Or
ders, Nos. 12 and 13, current series, from these headquarters, has be
come null and void, and said orders are thereby rescinded.
II. Paragraphs II and III of General Orders, No. 14, from these head-
32 R R — VOL xiv
498 COASTS OF 8. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVI.
quarters, dated May 5, 1862, are continued in force in aid of the due
execution of the aforesaid proclamation of the President.
J. C. PEMBERTON,
Major- General, Commanding.
Effective forces in the First, Second, and Third Military Districts of South
Carolina and the District of Georgia May 11, 1862.
First Military District.
Infantry 6,462
Cavalry 532
Artillery 2,756
Total 9,750
Second Military District.
Infantry 4,015
Cavalry 601
Artillery 267
Total 4,883
Third Military District.
•Total 3,881
District of Georgia.
Infantry 7,519
Cavalry 1,020
Artillery 634
Total 9,173
Total effective 27,687
[MAY 12, 1863. — For Lee to Pemberton, in reference to further re-
enforcements for army about Richmond, see Series I, Vol. XI, Part III
p. 511.]
HDQRS. DEPT. OF SOUTH CAROLINA AND GEORGIA.
Savannah, May 12, 1862.
General S. COOPER,
Adjutant and Inspector General :
GENERAL : I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of a letter
from the honorable Secretary of War,t through Hon. Alfred Iverson,
of Georgia, in relation to the defense of the Chattahoochee River by ob
structing the channel, &c. I have no engineer officer under my com
mand so well fitted for this duty as is Colonel Boggs, State Engineer of
Georgia. At my request Governor Brown has consented that Colonel
Boggs shall make a military reconnaissance of the river, and I shall
* Not classified. t Of May 7. See p. 493. ~
CHAP. XXVI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. CONFEDERATE. 499
depute him to select the position and to superintend the work, unless
authority be granted me to transfer the battery now located at Ricco's
Bluff, on the Chattahoochee, to such other point as may be selected.
The obstruction, wherever located, will be without defense, the battery
referred to lying within the limits of the Department of East and Mid
dle Florida and under the command of Brigadier-General Trapier.
If possible I shall make a personal examination of the river, but it is
very doubtful whether I shall be able to do so. The position which
seemed to me to combine more advantages than any other which came
under my observation on a recent visit to Apalachicola was the site of
old Fort Gadsden, and I so advised Brigadier-General Trapier. There
may, however, be others still better higher up the river, .more particu
larly as to healthfulness. The only other point I have heard proposed is
some 10 miles above the town of Chattahoochee, known as Rock Island.
It has the disadvantage of leaving unprotected a considerable district of
cotton-growing country.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
J. C. PEMBERTON,
Major- General, Co mmanding.
[Indorsement.]
AD JUT ANT- GENERAL, :
Authorize General Pemberton to change position of the Kicco's Bluff
Battery if found necessary. Inform him that General Joseph Fiuegan
commands Department of Middle and East Florida, and inform Gen
eral Finegau of authority to General Pemberton to change position of
battery.
G. W. R.
HEADQUARTERS JAMES ISLAND AND DEPENDENCIES,
May 13, 1862.
Maj. Gen. J. C. PEMBERTON, Charleston:
GENERAL : I have the honor to report that I will remove early to
morrow the Twenty-fourth Eegiment South Carolina Volunteers, Colonel
Stevens commanding, with the exception of two rifle companies, to a
point near Secessionville.
The two rifle companies under charge of Lieutenant-Colonel Capers
will remain at Cole's Island. Lieutenant-Colonel Capers is instructed
to keep a rigid lookout, and in case of gunboats entering the inlet to
secure his command in the bomb-proof, and if the enemy lands a small
detachment he is instructed to attack them ; if he lands a large one, to
retire his command, consisting of about 100 men.
By this evening I will have removed the 24-pounders from Battery
Island. I have not directed the siege-train guns to be placed in position
because of difficulty in removing them in case of attack. I have given
orders to the garrison to be in readiness to fall back to the lines with
their guns at a moment's warning. I would respectfully suggest, in
consequence of the difficulty of removing them in case of attack, that
the guns be placed at once on the lines.
I find that Colonel Stevens is unable to place the obstruction at the
point indicated by reason of the want of steamers to transport it and
of material to sink it. I have directed Colonel Stevens in case he is
unable to remove the 32-pounder rifle gun to bury it on the island, but
1 hope that he will be able to remove it this afternoon. The obstacle
500 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVI,
in the way of its removal is the want of a lighter. I will have the 24-
pouDders which have been withdrawn from Battery Island placed on
the lines to the east of James Island Creek as soon as possible. 1 b.ive
directed Major Lucas and Captain Ramsay to put the work at Elliott's
Cut in a proper state of defense. I have extended orders to Maj. E. B.
White to place his light guns on the lines west of James Island Creek,
and to haul up and mount the guns deposited at Minott's Bluff on the
same lines. 1 have detached tour companies from Lamar's battalion to
take charge of and man the lines east of James Island Creek. I have
placed an 18-ponnder in position on the work at Secession vi lie ; it is
that which 1 found here. There is also a 32-pounder here, with muni
tion, on a siege carriage, the limber of which Colonel Hatch has taken
to Morris Island to make a wood truck out of. I will endeavor to have
this gun placed or the lines at an early day. Send Lieutenant-Colonel
Si moii ton to his command with arms and ammunition for his unarmed
men.
I anticipate a reconnaissance by the enemy to-morrow morning at
high water and have made my arrangements accordingly. Should you
wish to communicate with me there will be two mounted couriers in
readiness at Fort Johnson.
Tbe Planter passed Cole's Island going south about 11 o'clock this
morning. I would respectfully ask that Captain McCreery, of the
Ordnance Department, be ordered to report to me for the purpose of
placing the guns in position on the lines east and west of James Island
Cru'k. I have the honor to request that Capt. J. Welsman Brown, re
cently promoted to the majority of Lamar's regiment artillery, be re
lieved from duty on the court-martial now sitting in Charleston, and
be ordered to report for duty with his command.
Eespectfully,
S. E. GIST,
Brigadier- General, Commanding.
[Indorsement.]
HDQRS. SECOND MILITARY DIST. OF SOUTH CAROLINA,
Charleston, May 14, 1862.
Eespectfully forwarded.
I have approved of General Gist's movements and allowed him dis
cretion in moving the siege guns from Battery Island. The steamer
Marion has been sent for the rifled 3U-pouuders and to get the obstruc
tions in readiness for sinking.
E. S. EIPLEY,
Brigadier- General.
HDQRS. DEPT. OF SOUTH CAROLINA AND GEORGIA,
tiavannah, May 13, 18G2.
Brig. Gen. A. E. LAWTON,
Commanding Military District of Georgia :
I am directed by the major-general commanding the department to
say that he finds upon investigation that none of the guns have been
mounted on the batteries at the Bay Bluff, and that as yet there are
but two there. The general directs that the earth in rear of the bat
teries be cut down and given a gradual slope to the rear, for the safety
of the gunners. The general has been informed by Colonel Boggs that
he believes there are four 8-iuch siege howitzers lying at the Central
eiixr. XXVI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. — CONFEDERATE. 501
Depot, said guns having been forwarded some time since, for which
carriages are already here. If such is the case, the general directs that
they be placed in position at once on the bluff. The general again
urges the necessity for the completion of this work, as he has been in
formed by the person in charge that there are only 9 men employed at
present. The general further directs that the mouth of Black River be
obstructed with as little delay as possible. If necessary employ one-
half of your command on the work, and call on the mayor and city
council for aid. The general desires further that you report without
delay whether or not the howitzers have arrived.
I am, general, very respectfully,
J. H. MOEEISON,
Aide-de- Camp.
HDQRS. DEPT. OF SOUTH CAROLINA AND GEORGIA,
Savannah, May 13, 18G2.
To the MAYOR OF SAVANNAH :
SIR : I am directed by the major-general commanding the department
to say that, should it become necessary and in his opinion practicable
to defend the city of Savannah in the event of the enemy's successfully
passing the obstructions and batteries, the presence of women anil
children will not prevent it, He advises therefore that they be grad
ually withdrawn from the city, without however creating unnecessary
alarm. There are certain houses in front of the batteries on Bay Bluff
which it is necessary should be removed.
I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
J. H. MOEEISON,
Aide-de- Camp.
IIDQRS. DEPT. OF SOUTH CAROLINA AND GEORGIA,
Charleston, May 14, 18G2.
Brig. Gen. E. S. EIPLEY, Commanding, &c. :
GENERAL : I am instructed by Major- General Pemberton to inform
you that he expects to use field artillery in the works in the city of
Charleston, and such heavy guns as he may be able to equip with
horses, &c., which will be movable.
I am, &c.,
J. E. WADDY,
Assistant Adjutant -General.
HDQRS. DEPT. OF SOUTH CAROLINA AND GEORGIA,
Charleston, Maij 14, 18G2.
Brig. Gen. E. S. EIPLEY, Commanding, &c. :
GENERAL: I am instructed by Major-General Pemberton to say to
you that he wishes you to carry out strictly his instructions of May 8,
18G2. The general does not wish any heavy guns in front of the lines
which are not equipped with horses, &c., and which cannot be moved at
any time. The tiehl artillery will not be kept on the lines, but will be kept
in park. That portion of Brigadier-General Gist's letter which reads
thus, " Send Lieutenant Colonel Simonton to his command with arms
and ammunition for his unarmed men" is not understood by the major-
general commanding, The limber in the hands of Colonel Hatch wits;
502 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXW.
be returned. You will order Captain McCreery to report to General
Gist for the duty specified and to instruct the men in their duties.
Major Brown, of La mar's regiment, cannot be relieved at this time
fro in duty on the general court-martial. The court, however, will ad
journ sine die in a few days.
I am, &c..
J. E. WADDY,
Assistant Adjutant- General.
HDQRS. DEPT. OF SOUTH CAROLINA AND GEORGIA,
Charleston, May 14, 1862.
Capt. W. H. TAYLOR,
Assistant Adjutant- General :
CAPTAIN : I have the honor to report that, in obedience to instructions
received by telegraph last night from the general commanding, I shall
to-morrow morning dispatch, under flag of truce, a letter addressed to
the officer commanding United States forces on the coast of South Caro
lina and Georgia, in which I propose a general exchange of non-commis
sioned officers and privates, prisoners of war, also an exchange of lists of
commissioned officers, with the view of negotiations for future release.
I desire to call the attention of the general commanding to the utter
uselessness of the two navy gunboats (so styled), carrying each three
valuable guns, which might be made so available in the works I have
had constructed under the superintendence of Maj. A. L. Long on the
Bay Bluff, at the lower end of the city. I hope that the city of Savan
nah will be defended should the enemy's gunboats unfortunately suc
ceed in passing the batteries below. I beg that an effort may be made
to place these guns at my disposal. Captain Brent objects to locating
these boats at the only point where I think they can be advantageously
placed, to wit, in a canal cut into Mackay's Point near the head of
Elba Island.
The obstructions in the Savannah Eiver get on too slowly, though I
think they will be effectual. I very much wish the commanding general
of this district had more pushing energy. I think we need a man of
this character here now.
I have this evening, I think, satisfied the mayor pro tempore (the
mayor being ill) of the necessity of martial law in this city. I am very
sure that it should be proclaimed.
Four companies of infantry have this evening been sent to Atlanta.
There has been very great disorganization produced by the recent
elections of company and field officers. As a general rule the new officers
are far inferior to their predecessors.
Very respectfully, &c.,
J. C. PEMBEETON,
Major- General, Commanding.
HDQRS. SECOND MILITARY DIST. OF SOUTH CAROLINA,
Charleston, 8. C., May 14, 1862.
Maj. J. E. WADDY,
Assistant Adjutant- General, Charleston, S. C.:
MAJOR: In answer to your indorsement I have the honor to state
that the guns .on board the Planter as freight were some that were
CIIAV. XXVI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. CONFEDERATE. 503
damaged in the cannonade and bombardment of Fort Sumter in the
month of April, 1861. They had been condemned and laid aside, but
in the scarcity of heavy guns I had ordered them to be banded and
strengthened, and I believe it had been successfully accomplished.
They were on board the Planter to go to the Middle Ground Battery
when she escaped from this harbor in charge of her colored crew.
I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
R. S. KIPLEY,
Brigadier- General, Commanding.
HDQRS. DEPT. OF SOUTH CAROLINA AND GEORGIA,
Charleston, May 14, 1862.
Brig. Gen. K. S. EIPLEY,
Commanding Second Military District:
GENERAL: I am instructed by the major-general commanding De
partment of South Carolina and Georgia to inform you that you will
hold yourself in readiness to move with two regiments of infantry of
this command to Virginia should the requisition be made.
I am, &c.,
J. R. WADDY,
Assistant Adjutant General.
CHARLESTON, May 14, 1862.
General LAWTON, Savannah:
Hold two regiments in readiness to move to this point should trn^y
be required.
J. R. WADDY,
Assistant Adjutant- General.
HDQRS. DEPT. OF SOUTH CAROLINA AND GEORGIA,
Charleston, May 15, 1862.
Brig. Gen. THOMAS F. DRAYTON,
Commanding Sixth Military District of South Carolina:
GENERAL : The Secretary of War authorizes the connection of the
Albany and Gulf Railroad through Savannah with the Central Georgia
Railroad, provided the cost to the Confederate Government does not
exceed the sum I named, to wit, $0,000. On these conditions I desire
you to see the proper authorities on the subject and have the work done
at once. Should the expense be less than $12,000 in all the Government
will defray only one-half.
J. C. PEMBERTON,
Major -General, Commanding.
HEADQUARTERS,
Richmond, Va., May 15, 1862.
His Excellency FRANCIS W. PICKENS,
Governor of South Carolina :
GOVERNOR ; I have the honor to receive your letter of the 12th in-
504 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVL
stant,* and regret exceedingly the state of affairs at Charleston depicted
by you. I would be glad to have your suggestions as to the most advis
able mode of remedying the evil. I see no way of adjusting the matters
save the relieving of General Kipley, in compliance with his request. I
should regret to take this step, inasmuch as his ability and knowledge
of affairs in Charleston Harbor would be very essential in time of an
attack. As he seems to be dissatisfied, however, and not in harmony
with those above and below him, it may be the best thing to gratify his
wishes. On the other hand, Hon. Porcher Miles, W. D. Porter, and
A. G. Magrath deprecate his removal, and think his absence at this
critical period would be disastrous. They recommend giving General
Kipley the direct control and responsibility for the defense of Charleston
District, independent of General Pemberton. This it is impossible to do
while General Pembertou is in command of the department. One or the
other must be removed. At the time that I was on duty in that depart
ment Commodore Ingraham was the ordnance and artillery officer of the
forts and batteries in Charleston Harbor, whose province it is to inspect
and regulate the service of the batteries and report their condition to
General Pemberton, and who I have no doubt will attend faithfully to
his duty.
I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
K. E. LEE,
General.
HEADQUARTERS,
Richmond, Va., May 15, 1862.
Hons. W. P. MILES, W. D. PORTER, and A. G. MAGRATH,
Charleston,®. C.:
GENTLEMEN : I have had the honor to receive your telegram of the 8th
instant.* I regret exceedingly the state of affairs which exists at Charles
ton. Your suggestion to relieve General Bipley of all direct control by
General Pemberton could not be adopted as long as General Pemberton
retained command of ,the Department of South Carolina and Georgia.
The defense of the two cities, Charleston and Savannah, is so closely
associated, that it is deemed unadvisable to constitute each of the two
States a separate department under a separate commander. General
Kipley appears dissatisfied and anxious to change his field of operations,
and although recognizing the importance of his presence at Charleston,
particularly should that city be attacked, yet it appears best to comply
with his repeated requests and relieve him from his present command.
I see no way of overcoming this difficulty except by relieving one of the
two officers in question, and would like to know which course you would
recommend.
I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
K. E. LEE,
General.
GENERAL ORDERS, \ HDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF S. C. AND GA.,
No. 17. f Charleston, May i?, 1862.
I. The President of the Confederate States having by proclamation
extended martial law over that part of the State of South Carolina from
the Santee Kiver to the South Edisto Kiver, and having proclaimed the
* Not found.
CHAI-. XXVI. 1 CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. CONFFDERATE. 505
suspension of all civil jurisdiction (with the exception of that enabling
the courts to take cognizance of the probate of wills, the administration
of the estates of deceased persons, the qualification of guardians, to enter
decrees and orders for the partition and sale of property, to make orders
concerning roads and bridges, to assess county levies, and to order the
payment of county dues), and the suspension of the writ of habeas corpus
in the country aforesaid:
Therefore, in aid of the due execution of said proclamation, Lieut. Col.
George S. James, Third Battalion Infantry South Carolina Volunteers,
under direction of Brig. Gen. K G. Evans, commanding Third Military
District, is appointed provost-marshal of that portion of country in the
Third Military District of South Carolina over which martial law is ex
tended, and he is charged with the due execution of the said procla
mation. He will forthwith establish an efficient military police, and
will enforce the following orders :
All distillation of spirituous liquors is positively prohibited and the
distilleries will forthwith be closed. The sale ot spirituous liquors of
any kind is also prohibited and establishments for the sale thereof will
be closed.
M. All persons infringing the above prohibition will suffer such pun
ishment as shall be ordered by the sentence of a court-martial, provided
that no sentence to hard labor for more than one month shall be inflicted
by the sentence of a regimental court-martial, as directed by the G7th
article of war.
J. C. PEMBERTON,
Major -General, Commanding.
HDQRS. DEPT. OF SOUTH CAROLINA AND GEORGIA,
Charleston, May 18, 1862.
Brigadier-General EIPLEY,
Commanding Second Military District :
GENERAL: I am instructed by Major-General Pemberton to inform
you that you can get as much iron as you require for the defense of
Charleston upon requisition on Capt. F. L. Childs, commanding arsenal.
J. B. WADDY,
Assistant Adjutant- General.
HEADQUARTERS,
Richmond, Va., May 19, 18G2.
Maj. Gen. J. C. PEMBERTON,
Commanding Department, &c., Charleston :
GENERAL: Deducting from your return of troops for the month of
March the lour regiments sent West and Gregg's brigade and Orr's
regiment sent to Virginia, it appears that your present effective strength
is about 25000 or 20,000 men. Starke's Virginia and the two North
Carolina regiments, which were first withdrawn, are not deducted, be
cause their places were supplied by the three new Georgia regiments
ordered to report to you. Your whole effective force, as far as my in
formation tends, must be about double the availaMe force of the enemy.
Please inform me whether you have any reliable information of the
strength of the enemy, and whether you think at this late season of the
f)06 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVL
year lie would undertake any operations against you. I presume he
will not venture to attack either Charleston or Savannah unless pro
vided with iron boats, and I fear we are losing the service of troops
important to us at this place by retaining them where they are not re
quired. If you can concur in this view of the case can you not forward
without delay a good brigade to this city under General Eipley if he can
be spared?
I am, very respectfullv, your obedient servant,
E. E. LEE,
General, Commanding.
HEADQUARTERS,
Richmond, Va., May 20, 1862.
General J. C. PEMBERTON,
Commanding, Charleston, S. C.:
GENERAL: I am instructed by General Lee to say that he has re
ceived the papers forwarded by you relative to the escape of the steamer
Planter with certain guns on board from Charleston Harbor.* He very
much regrets the circumstance, and hopes that necessary measures will
be taken to prevent any repetition of a like misfortune and to bring to
punishment any party or parties that may be proved guilty of complicity
in the affair or negligent in not preventing it.
I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
W. H. TAYLOE,
Assistant Adjutant- General.
CHATTAHOOCHEE. FLA., May 20, 1862.
Major-General PEMBERTON,
Commanding C. 8. Forces, Charleston, S. C. :
GENERAL: In accordance with your letter to His Excellency Gov
ernor Brown, I have made a reconnaissance of the Chattahoochee and
Apalachicola Eivers with reference to obstructions and defenses. The
river can be readily and effectually obstructed at several points between
lola and the mouth of the Chipola lliversj called the Narrows; but
these obstructions cannot be defended by land batteries. That part of
the river known as Fort Gadsden Eeach can be as readily obstructed
as any other, and the site of the fort is well suited for military works
of any sort. Moreover, from the appearance of the country, I should
infer it to be the most healthy locality upon the lower river. I went as
far as Apalachicola, and could fiud no point so well suited as Fort
Gadsden to answer all ends. In addition to the defense, &c., at Fort
Gadsden, the Saint Mary's might be obstructed and Apalachicola re-
occupied. I go to Tallahassee to-morrow for the purpose of seeing
General Finegan, and if he makes no objection to my views I shall pro
ceed at once to obstruct the river at Fort Gadsden. I shall not disturb
the guns or works upon the river. I consider the guns too light for use
at Fort Gadsden, and they might answer some purpose as they are in
compelling the enemy to run the gauntlet.
I would request that two 8-inch columbiads, with carriages, platforms,
implements, &c., be sent to me as soon as possible at Fort Gadsden.
* Reference is probably to reports on pp. 13-15.
CHAP. XXVI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. — CONFEDERATE. 507
If it is impossible to furnish the means of defense, it would be better to
obstruct the river in the Narrows and leave them undefended.
I consider the minimum amount of cotton on the banks of the river
at and below Columbus as offering a great, if not the only, inducement
for the enemy to ascend it. I would therefore suggest the propriety of
having it removed at once to the interior or burnt.
I remain, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
W. E. BOGGS,
Chief Engineer State of Georgia.
[Indorsement.]
HDQRS. DEPT. OF SOUTH CAROLINA AND GEORGIA,
Charleston, May 27, 1862.
The within report of Col. W. E. Boggs, State Engineer of Georgia, of
a military reconnaissance of the Chattahoochee River, with a view to
obstructing the most advantageous point and for the establishment of
a battery for its defense, is respectfully referred to the Secretary of
War. It is not in my power to furnish the 8-iiich guns asked for by
Colonel Boggs. I have myself, however, a higher opinion of the long-
range 32-pouuder than Colonel Boggs entertains, and I am clearly of
the opinion that Fort Gadsden is the best site on the river to combine
the obstructions and defense.
J. C. PEMBEETOST,
Major- General^ Commanding.
HDQRS. SECOND MILITARY DIST. OF SOUTH CAROLINA,
Charleston, S. C., May 20, 1862.
Maj. J. E. WADDY,
Assistant Adjutant- General, Charleston, 8. C.:
MAJOR : I have the honor to inclose a dispatch* from the acting as
sistant adjutant general of General Gist, as also a later dispatch* from
that general. I beg also to acknowledge receipt of indorsement on the
dispatch sent this morning. I will endeavor to do what is requisite in
the case, but I beg leave respectfully to suggest that as the evacuation
of Cole's Island was not in accordance with views which 1 have enter
tained, and there may be some plan which the major-general has had
in view for the defense of the Stouo River, that event having happened,
which I am not aware of, I should be happy to receive instructions. I
shall visit James Island and the fort at the mouth of Elliott's Cut in a
very short time.
I am. very respectfully, your obedient servant,
E. S. EIPLEY,
Brigadier- General, Commanding.
HDQRS. SECOND MILITARY DIST. OF SOUTH CAROLINA,
Charleston, S. <7., May 20, 1862.
Maj. J. E. WADDY,
Assistant Adjutant- General, Charleston, S. C.:
MAJOR : I have the honor to inclose a dispatch from Lieutenant Sim-
* Reference is probably to the reports of bombardment of Cole's Island. See pp. 16, 17.
508 COASTS OF S. C., OA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVL
kins, commanding guard on steamer Marion. The Marion and Clinch.
Laving been employed endeavoring to move the obstruction cribs from
near Battery Island to near Elliott's Cut, retired when the gunboats
crossed the bar. I have sent a dispatch to General Evans suggesting
that lie send his steam ferry-flat at John's Island into town at once:
also telling him of the entrance of the enemy into Stono, and I would
respectfully suggest the propriety of directions being given to that
officer. I am endeavoring to bring the carriages for the fort at the
mouth of Elliott's Out to their position ; and am, very respectfully, your
obedient servant,
E. S. EIPLEY,
Brigadier- General, Commanding.
[In closure.]
HDQRS. SECOND MILITARY DIST. OF SOUTH CAROLINA,
Charleston, #. 0., May 20, 18G2.
Capt. LEO. D. WALKER :
CAPTAIN : I have the honor to report that, in obedience to orders
from brigade headquarters, 1 proceeded on steamer Marion, with a de
tachment of 20 men, to the Stono Kiver for the purpose of moving the
obstructions. It being impracticable to move them before high water
I had to wait for this morning's tide. The enemy's gunboats, taking
advantage of the same tide, came into the river and compelled me to
leave the obstructions. I would also respectfully report that while re
turning I offered to remove Mr. Grimball and a portion of his effects,
but he preferred seeking protection from the enemy by hoisting a white
flag, which compelled me to leave him to his fate.
I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
W. S. SIMKINS,
First Lieutenant^ Regiment Artillery.
DEPARTMENT OF THE MILITARY, SOUTH CAROLINA,
Columbia, May 20, 1802.
General J. C. PE^IIIERTON,
Major General^ Commanding, South Carolina:
From several most worthy and distinguished citizens of the State,
residents of Charleston, we have received communications of such a
character as render it proper that the substance of them should be com
municated to you. The information convened is such that I feel assured
would be most likely known to you if it has any foundation, but still
it is my duty, under instructions of Governor and Council, to bring it
to your attention.
^ We^are told disaffection prevails in a large portion of the garrison of
Fort Sumter, extending to threats of mutiny and refusal to tire against
the enemy if he should appear. We are told also that the persons who
made these allegations are ready to substantiate them.
1 request therefore, in view of the seriousness of the charge, that
you communicate with Mr. William Priugle and Judge Edward Frost
on the subject.
Most respectfully, your obedient servant,
JAMES CHESNUT, JR.,
Chief of Department of Military, South Carolina^
XXVI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. CONFEDERATE. 509
CHARLESTON, May 20, 1862.
Brigadier-General EVANS, Adams Run :
The enemy's gunboats within the Stono ; keep your advanced pickets
witUiii sight of them. Move negroes back.
J. C. PEMBERTOX,
Major- Genera I, Commanding.
IIDQRS. DEPT. OF SOUTH CAROLINA AND GEORGIA,
Charleston, 8. <7., May 21, 18G2.
Col. A. L. LONG,
Military Secretary, Headquarters Commanding General:
COLONEL: I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of an official
letter of the 19th instant from the commanding general. In reply to
Iris inquiry as to my information of the strength of the enemy I regret
to say that I have none which I consider reliable. General Evans esti
mates about 10,000 in front of his line, basing his opinion on the number
of camps, &c. General Hunter has his headquarters on Daufuskie Island.
I have no means of approximating the number of his troops on that
Island, Hilton Head, Saint Helena, or Port Royal. Most of his forces
Lave been withdrawn from the neighborhood of Port Royal Ferry,
though small incursions for negro stealing are represented to have been
recently made from that direction. I do not think he has to exceed a
regiment at Pulaski and the immediate neighborhood.
As the result of the inexcusable and gross neglect of duty on the
part of those having charge of the steamer Planter, recently abducted
by her negro crew, the enemy yesterday (doubtless availing of the
knowledge of said crew) entered the Stono River with two gunboats
and anchored off Battery Island, shelling on either side as they
passed. All our guns and public stores of every description had been
withdrawn and the buildings were fired as the infantry withdrew. I
do not suppose there is any immediate intention of »• tacking Charleston;
this movement, however, may be a commencement with that object in
view. Our land defenses on James Island, however, are very strong.
The battery constructed at Elliott's Cut, on the Stono River (not yet
entirely completed), mounts only eight guns. I desire to make it twenty,
but under present arrangements cannot effect it. I do not regard
Charleston as strong. What under the old system of warfare was our
strength is now our great weakness. The many approaches by water
and the recent proof of the practicability of their gunboats passing our
batteries have made the defense of this city a very difficult problem to
solve. To obstruct 2,000 yards of channel (and this with relation to the
forts, Sumter and Moultrie, is decided upon as the most feasible) looks
almost like an impossibility. Every effort is, however, being made to
accomplish it. I am decidedly of opinion that the most effectual
defense of the city of Charleston can and should be made from and
around the city itself. I believe that when the enemy is prepared to
assault the forts at the entrance to the harbor he will do so in such force
and with such appliances as will reduce it to a question of time only.
One great reliance being on these works, when they fall our means of
defense will be inadequate to hold the city, but with the guns now within
their walls I am satisfied that, however great might be the injury to the
city itself from bombardment, his feet could be kept from polluting its
streets. This has for some time been my opinion, and I am glad to find
510 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP.
many gentlemen of eminence and intelligence who entirely concur with
me. Among others I will mention the Hon. R. W. Barnwell, Confeder
ate States Senate, who called this morning to see me on this very sub
ject. The forts should not only be dismounted but destroyed. They
will be of no use to us after the termination of this war in their present
condition, for I take it impregnable iron-clad batteries must take the
place of stone and mortar. 1 propose this subject to the serious con
sideration of the Department. The greatest difficulty in the way of this
radical change would be the removal of the guns from the forts without
the knowledge of the enemy. It might, however, be done.
Unless positively directed to send another brigade from this depart
ment I do not feel authorized to do so. At this time we need every man
we have for the defense of the cities of Charleston and Savannah. I
do not imagine that the season will prevent the enemy's attack when
he is otherwise prepared to make it.
Very respectfully, &c.,
J. C. PEMBERTON,
Major-General, Commanding.
EXECUTIVE COUNCIL CHAMBER,
Columbia, S. C., Hay 21, 1862.
Hon. GEORGE W. RANDOLPH,
Secretary of War:
SIR : I have the honor to inclose herewith certain resolutions adopted
by the Governor and Council of this State.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
B. F. ARTHUR,
Secretary Executive Council.
[Inclosure.]
STATE OF S. C., EXECUTIVE COUNCIL CHAMBER,
Columbia, S. C., May 21, 1862.
The following resolutions, adopted by the Governor and Council, have
been ordered to be published :
Resolved. That the Governor and Executive Council concur in opin
ion with the people of South Carolina, assembled in Convention, that
Charleston should be defended at any cost of life or property, and that
in their deliberate judgment they would prefer a repulse of the en
emy with the entire city in ruins to an evacuation or surrender on any
terms whatever.
Resolved, That while they urge a defense of the city at every hazard,
and claim no forbearance from the military authorities from considera
tions of life or property, the Governor and Council, with the Convention,
disapprove a voluntary burning of the city by the citizens themselves
irrespective of military command.
Resolved, That while they have communicated to the Confederate
commanding generals the report adopted by the Convention " as the
expressed wish of the people of the State," have freely uttered the con
victions of their own judgments, and have repeatedly proffered all the
aid and co-operation in their power to effect the proposed result, the
Governor and Council, like the Convention, have considered that the
ultimate decision as to the defense of Charleston rests necessarily with
the Confederate authorities, who control the only military forces capa-
CHAP. XXVI] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. CONFEDERATE. 511
ble of making effectual resistance and who alone are responsible for
the action taken. .
Resolved, That certified copies of the foregoing resolutions be fur
nished to the President of the Confederate States, to the Secretary of
War, and to the Confederate generals commanding in South Carolina,
and that the same be published once in the Charleston papers.
Official copy.
B. F. ARTHUR,
Secretary Executive Council.
HDQRS. THIRD MILITARY DISTRICT SOUTH CAROLINA,
Adams Run, S. C., May 21, 1862.
Maj. J. R. WADDY,
Assistant Adjutant- General, Charleston, 8. C.:
MAJOR : I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of the official
telegram of the major-general commanding in reference to the move
ments of the enemy in the Stouo, and beg leave to report that I have
evacuated John's and Wadmalaw Islands, with the exception ot the
cavalry pickets. This movement was made agreeably to verbal instruc
tions received from the major-general commanding. The pickets are
directed to watch carefully the Stono and Wadmalaw Rivers. I would
also report that as the railroad is now open to the enemy at Rantowles
and John's Island Ferry my supplies will be cut off if he should de
stroy the bridge and take the railroad. On account of the limited
means of transportation the troops of this command will evidently
suffer for provisions unless a depot of stores is conveniently located.
To prevent this I have directed my commissary to store a quantity of
provisions at Legareville or at some point near on the road leading to
Summerville. The rice now in store at this place is awaiting the
necessary transportation.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
K G. EVANS,
Brigadier- General, Commanding.
HDQRS. DEPT. OF SOUTH CAROLINA AND GEORGIA,
Charleston, May 21, 1862.
Brig. Gen. R. S. RIPLEY,
Commanding Second Military District :
GENERAL : I am instructed by Major-General Pemberton to say to
you that if necessary you will suspend all other work until the Stouo is
thoroughly obstructed, as it is essential that the work should be done
at once, and it will be prosecuted day and night until finished.
I am, &c.,
J. R. WADDY,
Assistant Adjutant- General.
HEADQUARTERS PROVISIONAL FORCES,
DEPARTMENT OF EAST AND MIDDLE FLORIDA,
Tallahassee, May 21, 1862.
General S. COOPER,
Adjutant and Inspector General C. S. Army, Richmond:
GENERAL : I have the lionor to submit an approximate estimate of
512
COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [(JHAP.
the number of troops in this department (mustered in for the war)
after the Fourth Kegiment Florida Volunteers leaves for Corinth, as
follows:
Regiment.
Arms.
Aggre
gate.
Remark ».
Fiftli Regiment Florida Vol
unteers.
Sixth Regiment Florida Vol
unteers.
Seventh Regiment Florida
Volunteers.
1, 150
1,100
1,100
1,000
600
450
700
250
Stationed at Camp Lee, near Tal
lahassee.
Stationed on the Chattahoochee
River.
Ordered to Jacksonville to relieve
the Fnuith Regiment, under or
ders For Corinth.
Captain Aniiikei , under authority
f'nin the War I>rp;»rtini tit. has
tlie full number of companies
forlhe. wa»'. which will include
a few Independent companies
that hav b-en fill. -.1 up. Field
oHieers will be eltcted at an
oai Iv day.
Stationed at Rioco's I'.lnff.
One on theCh«itnhoochee; one
near Tallahassee; oue near
Jacksonville.
Stationed at diO'erent points on
the const.
Now being reorganized for the
war.
Fully armed
Four-fifths armed.
First Sppcial Battalion
Fullv armed
Three butteries li^lit ar
tillery.
Eight companies cavalry....
Three companies six months
Missomi Volunteers.
Six field pieces to each com
pany.
Partly armed
Partly armed
6, :<50
As tbe summer advances there is less probability of an invnsion of
Florida by the enemy, and I respectfully submit, that 2,500 men (if
armed) will be sufficient to guard the coast of Florida during the sum
mer and fall months. This would leave (when the conscripts are en
rolled) fully 4,000 men available for service outside the State. Jf the
services of these troops are needed at other points (as I presume they
will be), I respectfully ask permission to accompany them in command.
One good battery of nyiug artillery could also be taken from Florida
and attached to the brigade.
I have the honor to be, general, with great respect, your obedient
servant,
JOS. FINEGAN,
Brigadier- Geifcral^ Commanding.
HEADQUARTERS CAMP MARION,
Near Georgetown, S. 0., May 22, 18G2.
General PE^IBERTON,
Commander -in- Chief of Coast of South Carolina and Georgia:
SIR: There came into this port this morning at sunrise two war
steamers, each carrying ten guns. They remained about two hours
and returned down the bay, and are now up Waccamaw Kiver. I
expect them to go up all of our rivers that empty into Winyaw Bay.
They did nothing while in this port, except to take a small pilot-boat
from our dock. They did not demand a surrender of the town. They
ordered our flag to be hauled down, but the reply was if they wished
it down they would have to haul it down. 1 am not prepared to offer
them an effectual resistance while they remain on their boats, but, if
they land 1 shall give them the best tight 1 can. I had the brig Joseph
CHAP. XXVI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. CONFEDERATE. 513
burned and other naval stores. I also had two cavalry companies, one
on Paulies Island, the other on Waccamaw Neck. There has been
heavy firing in that direction since about 8 a. m.; it is now 11 a. m.
I arn, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
W. P. EMANUEL,
Major, Commanding First Military District.
CHARLESTON, S. C., May 22, 1862.
Major-General PEMBERTON, Charleston, 8. C.:
SIR: The apprehension of unfortunate consequences which may arise
from any doubt or misunderstanding of the relation between you and
the Governor and Council of this State is the occasion and our apology
for now addressing you. For the purpose of removing that doubt or
misapprehension, if it should exist, and of placing the matter in a clear
and unmistakable condition, we have proposed in the form of interroga
tions the matter we desire to submit to you.
Supposing that military considerations hereafter to arise should lead
you to the conclusion that it was your duty to retire your troops from
the defense of the city, would you consider it an interference with your
authority that the Governor and Council should commence and make
such preparations at once for the defense of the city, additional to and
exclusive of such as you have ordered or may order, as may be proper
for those who prepare to defend the city to the last point?
Would you not be willing to order or advise and direct in the prepa
ration of such defenses ?
Would you not be willing by your counsel and aid to assist the Gov
ernor and Council in whatever was necessary to be done under such
circumstances as much so as if you were at liberty now to decide that
to such last point you would yourself hold the city ?
You will perceive in these questions that there is assumed to be a
political obligation upon the State and its people to defend the city
beyond that point at which perchance a single regard to military duty
might lead to the withdrawal of your force.
For the full import of the questions we address to you it is proper to
assume that such may be the case — we hope it will not — but that consid
eration, military as well as political, may unite in giving us the benefit
of your presence to the extremest point of defense. Yet it may not be
so, and for that contingency we wish to prepare ; and in so doing our
questions are directed to you, to ascertain whether you would consider
it an interference with you to make those preparations (under your
order or with your advice and direction) which contemplate the possi
bility of the defense of the city remaining with those whose political
obligations bind them to its unconditional defense.
No slight evidence of our appreciation of the obligation we feel is in
now addressing you this letter. We beg to assure you that our apology
for it is in the circumstances which surround us.
We shall communicate a copy of this letter and your reply as soon as
received to the Governor and Council.
With great respect, your obedient servants,
W. PORCHER MILES.
A. G. MAGRATH,
33 R R — VOL XIV
514 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVL
HEADQUARTERS SOUTH CAROLINA AND GEORGIA,
Charleston, May 22, 1862.
W. PORCHER MILES and A. G. MAGRATH:
GENTLEMEN : I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your
letter of this date.
In reply to your first interrogation I have to say that I shall not
consider it an interference with my authority should the Governor and
Council make preparations for the defense of this city, provided the
plans of defense are submitted to me and meet my approval. To the
second interrogation I answer in the affirmative on all the points em
braced.
The disposition evinced by so many distinguished citizens of the State
to defend Charleston to the last extreme meets with my entire sympa
thy and concurrence.
It is possible that "a single regard to military duty" may require the
withdrawal of Confederate troops, but this I confidently hope will not
toe the case.
Very respectfully, &c.,
J. C. PEMBERTON,
Major-General, Commanding.
HDQRS. DEPT. OF SOUTH CAROLINA AND GEORGIA,
Charleston, May 23, 1862.
J&rig. Gen. N. G. EVANS,
Commanding Third Military District :
GENERAL : It is probable that an attempt may be made to-day or
tomorrow by land and water against the gunboats of the enemy lying
in Stouo Kiver.
I desire you to co-operate with General Ripley's troops so far as to
iave a battery of field artillery in readiness to open upon the boats should
an occasion offer without too great risk to your battery, as the contem
plated operations will depend upon the movement of the enemy's boats.
The precise point where your batteries might be most serviceable can-
mot of course be indicated, but must be determined by circumstances.
All I at present desire on your part is that you have a battery in read
iness to assail him should he become engaged with General Kipley's
tommand.
Very respectfully, &c.,
J. C. PEMBERTON,
Major- General, Commanding.
HDQRS. DEPT. OF SOUTH CAROLINA AND GEORGIA,
Charleston, May 23, 1862.
General N. G. EVANS :
You can attack him if. after thorough reconnaissance, you are satis
fied your men will not be too much exposed to his shell. Don't get
your artillery where you can't get it off.
J. C. PEMBERTON,
Major -General, Commanding.
OH A P. XXVL.1 CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. CONFEDERATE. 515
HEADQUARTERS STATE OP SOUTH CAROLINA,
May 23, 1862.
General R. E. LEE, Richmond, Va.:
MY DEAR SIR : In your letter to me dated the 15th of May instant
you were so kind as to say, "I would be glad to hear your suggestions
as to the most advisable mode of remedying the evil." I now write, in
conformity to your suggestion, freely. There is great disorganization, I
fear, in both forts, but particularly Fort Sumter. When in Virginia last
summer with a company Calhoun offended Major Wagner and, I be
lieve, General Eipley, and when he returned charges were preferred
against him. This generated wide-spread dissensions. Ripley has lately
had Oalhoun out of the fort, I believe, on a protracted court-martiai,
and he also made a special assignment of Major Wagner as inspector
of ordnance generally outside at the batteries in his district. This has
left, I believe, Captain Rhett in command of the fort. He is said to be
a favorite of General Ripley. Lately 5 men deserted from the fort and
went to the fleet, as I am informed, and I hear that some of the guns
have been spiked. Four of the companies belonging to that fort have
been assigned to other posts, and this, as you know, has weakened the
garrison too much. There are eighty-seven guns there, all mounted,
and if surrounded they could fight sixty at one time. To garrison it
for fighting night and day in a great engagement would require at least
800 men, as you yourself once observed to me. Ripley has had difficul
ties with Dunovant, who commands the fine regiment of regulars, and
was on Sullivan's Island and at Fort Moultrie. Ripley ordered him to
Church Flats, with, I believe, four or tive of his companies. No officer
ought to be in command of Moultrie and the island unless he is a
thorough military man of experience, and that regular regiment ought
not to be divided if we expect an attack. I therefore most respectfully
suggest that an ordnance officer of high standing be immediately ordered
to inspect both forts as to ammunition, men, and guns, and report if
they are in thorough trim for immediate action. There are only about
56,000 pounds of powder in Fort Sumter. Let the regular regiment
of artillery all be ordered into Forts Sumter and Moultrie (it is 780
strong) and let the regular regiment of infantry be ordered to Sullivan's
Island, with two of the companies into Moultrie to support the artillery
companies. Let two native-born artillery companies from Charleston be
immediately ordered into Fort Sumter as a guard upon the enlisted men,
who are strangers, and after the Fort Jackson mutiny let us not be
placed in the same position at Fort Sumter. Let two of the regular en
listed companies of artillery be ordered from Sumter to Moultrie, and
a battalion of native infantry be stationed there as a guard against
mutiny amongst the regulars. If Charleston is to be attacked at all thus
late in the season it will only be by iron- clad boats through the regular
approaches, and the management of these forts is all important. De
fective or inexperienced officers will inevitably lose us everything. I
know of no heavy ordnance officer as experienced as General Huger,
and he would be the very man for the place if it were not that he,
unfortunately, would not act with us at first, and this is well known in
Charleston, and there is great ill-feeling toward him there even amongst
his relations. We are making large chains, and I sent some immense
chains down from this place to stretch across the channel. Fort Timber
is being erected at the mouth of the channel inside of the forts ; its
position is good, and heavy batteries are being erected at Fort John
son, so as to command the interior harbor if the boats should pass.
Castle Piuckney is being put in condition also for this purpose. la
516 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVL
addition to this I think some heavy guns — at least three rifled 32-
pounders — should be put on White Point Battery, and the largest
mortars should be put in position at Fort Johnson, and several should
also be put on the high points in the upper part of the city toward the
Neck, so as to be used if the gunboats got into the harbor; or, if any
landing is attempted, if they get in, these mortars and heavy guns in
the city should be used upon them, and let the city stand the shelling.
One-third of it is burnt already, right through the lower part of it, and
it cannot be extensively burnt except from the burnt district down to
the water. Our people are thoroughly prepared for it. At this season
of the year they can have no infantry force to land unless they whip
us in Tennessee and Virginia. All of our ports are taken now. It is
of the last importance we should hold Charleston to the last extremity,
as we can have no intercourse in any event with the foreign world if
Charleston is taken. If you will send a superior heavy ordnance officer
there — and I think on the whole Huger is the man, unless you know
of some other — and six heavy rifled cannon, with ten or twelve 10-inch
and 13-inch mortars (I let General Beauregard send eight of our large
State mortars to Pensacola after the fall of Sumter 5 can we not get
them back now !) and give the orders that Charleston shall be defended,
even amid conflagration and blood, it shall be done. If I could have any
assurance that the Confederate officers would not withdraw their forces
until we have fought it out in the harbor and in the streets I will pledge
myself to give all the powers and resources I can command to aid and
assist them in any emergency. I speak what I believe is the deliberate
feeling of the State when I say that we universally prefer it a city of
ashes and the site defended to its being in possession of the enemy.
We can concentrate about 15,000 men with arms to defend it, and
this is far more than they can send to take it; but what we want is heavy
cannon planted all around our inner harbor, with heavy mortars on the
rising land surrounding the city, and orders issued to use all human
exertion to defend it. It is due to us and to our cause that we should
make it a slaughter-house rather than to retire, even if threatened to
be overpowered. Let me entreat you to look at this matter imme
diately, and let it be known that you take the deepest interest in it,
and that you expect every officer to do his duty.
You will pardon me for writing thus freely to you, for you have been
amongst us, and your father before you was on every bloody field in
our State in our first Revolution. I think as my grandfather was with
him so often in battle I have a right to appeal to you now in this confi
dential manner. There has been so much ill feeling amongst the officers
in Charleston that we want a new man of large experience who will talk
and act like a hero and raise the enthusiasm of our people. Let it be
boldly known that the defense is to be desperate. I will go with you
in everything and stand by your officers to the last, and if I had com
mand 1 would stand with them at the guns, let the consequences be what
they may. We can afford to lose the city entirely, but not our honor.
Please let me hear from you.
With great esteem, I am, yours, very truly,
F. W. PICKENS.
HEADQUARTERS STATE OF SOUTH CAROLINA,
Columbia, May 23, 1862. x
Major-General PEMBERTON :
DEAR SIR : I am informed from the highest sources that 5 men re-
CHAP. XXVI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. CONFEDERATE. 517
cently deserted Fort Surnter and went to the fleet, and that there is
great disaffection among the garrison. I hear that the cannon have
been spiked, &c. I hear also that the division amongst the officers has
produced the worst effects as to the strict organization. The example of
Fort Jackson may have produced its effects upon our garrison also.
I beg leave most respectfully to suggest that two native-born artillery
companies from Charleston troops be immediately ordered into the
fort, so as to give a feeling of security as a guard over disaffection.
I would most respectfully suggest that Captain Boyce's tine artillery
company be ordered on Sullivan's Island, to be in position as a guard
to defend Moultrie from any disaffection amongst the regular infantry
regiment stationed there, and they perhaps might be of great service
in garrisoning Fort Moultrie as an artillery company.
It is too late in the season for the enemy to send any land force to
invest Charleston regularly, but they may send their gunboats any day
into the harbor, arid if so the great fight will be from the forts at first.
I hope and pray that it is well known that the defense is to be des
perate, and if they can be repulsed even with the city in ruins we would
unanimously prefer it. It is due to our cause and our country that we
should make a desperate fight in Charleston. We can afford to lose
our city, but not our honor. I will stand by you in anything you de
sire. I pray you will excuse my writing thus freely to you.
I suggest the Washington Artillery, Captain Walter, Marion Artil
lery, Captain Parker, and the Palmetto Guard, Captain Buist, as fit to
be sent into Fort Sumter. These men would restore confidence, and it
is all-important that this confidence should be restored.
In great haste, but very respectfully, your obedient servant,
F. W. PICKETS.
HDQRS. DEPT. OF SOUTH CAROLINA AND GEORGIA,
Charleston, May 23, 1862.
Hon. JAMES CHESNUT, Jr.,
Chief of Department of Military :
SIR : I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of
the 20rh instant, bringing to my notice certain reports touching the
loyalty of " a large portion of the garrison of Fort Sumter," extending
(you say) to threats of mutiny and refusal to «tire against the enemy if
he should appear. Previous to the receipt of your letter I had directed
Brigadier-General Kipley to cause an investigation to be made as to
the reliability of similar reports current in this city, and which I have
since found are traceable to the same sources as those brought by your
self to my attention. It may be that there are disaffected individuals
among the rank and file of Fort Sumter, as there probably are disaf
fected individuals in most of the corps in Confederate service, but that
this feeling extends to any considerable number I see no reason to be
lieve. Colonel Callioun and the officers of his command, to use the words
of the colonel himself, uhave confidence in the courage, patriotism,
and discipline of the men," and he adds, a I myself have no misgivings."
Private John Aiken, of Company 1, First Eegiment South Carolina
Artillery, is now in confinement, and will be brought to trial before a
general court-martial, charged with making use of seditious language
in presence of Mr. James W. Simons, a citiaen of Charleston. If there
is truth in his allegations, I see no procedure so likely to develop as
518 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CUAP. XXVI.
that about to be taken iii his case. I inclose you copies * of Colonel
Calhoun's letter, as also one from myself to Brigadier-General Ripley,
referring to this subject.
Respectfully,
J. 0. PEMBERTON,
Major- General, Commanding.
RICHMOND, May 23, 1862.
Major-General PEMBERTON :
Send a good brigade selected from troops of upper part of Georgia
and South Carolina that could not stand summer's campaign on coast;
a brigadier-general selected by you to report here without delay.
Very respectfully,
R. E. LEE.
MARION, S. C., May 23, 1862.
Major-General PEMBERTON:
Reliable information has been received that four of the enemy's gun
boats were 15 miles above Georgetown last night, in the Waccamaw
River. There are really no militia in this region to be ordered out, and
with a small force the railroad at Fair Bluff can be approached and
destroyed. Whether the boats can pass the obstructions on the Pee
Dee remains to be tested, I go there forthwith.
Very respectfully,
W. W. HARLLEE.
HEADQUARTERS SOUTH CAROLINA AND GEORGIA,
Charleston, May 24, 1862.
Brig. Gen. R. S. RIPLEY,
Commanding Second Military District :
GENERAL: General W. W. Harllee telegraphs me that reliable in
formation has been received that four of the enemy's gunboats were 1£
miles above Georgetown, in the Waccamaw River. It is very desirable
if possible to prevent the destruction of the railroad at Fair Bluff or
Santee. I wish you to send eight companies of infantry and a section
of field artillery by rail toward Santee or Fair Bluff, as the case may re
quire, well equipped for the temporary service. The commander of this
force should be a perfectly reliable person. On arrival he will report
the condition of affairs and act as emergencies may require.
Very respectfully, &c.,
J. C. PEMBERTON,
Major- General, Commanding.
CHARLESTON, May 24, 1862.
Gov. FRANCIS W. PICKENS:
Have ordered a regimen tp and one section of field artillery to proceed
* Not found.
CHAP. XXVI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. CONFEDERATE. 51$
at once to Fair Bluff, Mars Bluff, or Santee, as circumstances may re
quire.
J. C. PEMBERTON,
Major- General, Commanding*
CHARLESTON, May 24, 1862.
General R. E. LEE, Richmond :
General Ripley, with Moore's South Carolina and Gibson's Georgia
regiments, ordered to Richmond.
Enemy's gunboats reported in Waccamaw River, have ordered a regi
ment and section of artillery on line of Manchester and Wilmington
Railroad to protect bridges, &c. Gunboats in Stono ; shall probably
attack. I need more brigadier-generals in this department.
Respectfully,
J. C. PEMBERTON,
Major- General, Commanding.
HDQRS. DEPT. OF SOUTH CAROLINA AND GEORGIA,
Charleston, May 24, 1862.
Hon. JAMES CHESNUT, Jr.,
Chief of Department of Military South Carolina, Columbia :
SIR : I have the honor very respectfully to acknowledge the receipt
of your communication to myself of the 22d* ultimo, as well as a copy
of your communication to General R. E. Lee,* Confederate States Army,
dated January 20, 1862, relative to the necessity of stationing military
guards " at the important bridges on the lines connecting this State
with Georgia and North Carolina."
In reply I would respectfully state that it will be impossible for ine
to furnish from the Confederate soldiers under my command the neces
sary guards for the points above alluded to. I do not think any greater
necessity exists at present why these bridges should be guarded by
Confederate States troops than did exist when General Lee had coitt*
mand of this department. The points to be guarded too are in the
most unhealthy portions of the State, and would require under the
military system a much larger force than 100 men, though I admit they
could be guarded by 100 citizens not subject to military duty employed
by the different railroad companies, which I confess appears to me the
most legitimate kind of guards to employ on such duty. I would also
add that my command has been very much diminished since Generai
Lee's departure from this department, and I have within the five min
utes received a telegraphic order to send to Virginia one of my brigades.
Regretting my inability to oblige His Excellency the Governor and
Council in this, I am, &c.,
J. C. PEMBERTON,
Major- General, Commanding.
SPECIAL ORDERS, ) HDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF S. C. AND GA.,
No. 57. / Charleston. May 24, 1862.
I. Colonel Moore, now stationed in the Third Military District, will
» Not found.
520 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVL
federate States, to Bichmond, Va., tor duty iu that vicinity.
II. Brig. Gen. A. B. Lawtou will at once order Brigadier-General
Mercer, Provisional Array of the Confederate States, with two regiments
of Georgia Volunteers, to proceed to Charleston, S. C., for permanent
duty.
*******
By order of Major-General Pemberton :
J. B. WADDY,
Assistant Adjutant- General.
SPECIAL ORDERS, ) HDQRS. SECOND MILITARY DIST. OF S. C.,
No. 446. J Charleston. May 24. 1862.
I. The steamer Chesterfield, with a gunboat in tow, will proceed this
afternoon to a point in the marsh waters beyond Secessionville, where
the boat will be placed in position by Captain Bonneau according to in
structions heretofore given. The quartermaster's department will pro
vide a steamer to do the duty of the Chesterfield while she is absent
from the harbor.
II. The steamer Marion, having in tow a gunboat, and being in charge
of Lieut. C. W. Morris, will proceed through Wappoo Cut this afternoon
to the Stono Biver, where she will be located under the protection of
the battery at Elliott's Cut. The commanding officer will receive in
structions at that point.
III. Brigadier-General Gist will as soon as possible place in position
the guns already designated on the east bank of the Stono Biver and
man the rifle pits which have been dug in that vicinity.
IV. Each commander of shore batteries and of detachments manning
the rifle pits will be careful to withhold their fire while the enemy is as
cending the river should he make such movement, and to deliver it as
heavily as possible consistently with accuracy when he retreats. The
point of the enemy's vessels to be aimed at is near the water-line, just
aft the smoke-stack. Particular attention will be given to the helms
man and gunners by the riflemen.
V. Instructions will be given when to open fire, but should it be neces
sary in the absence of instructions commanders are authorized to use
their discretion.
By order of Brigadier-General Bipley :
LEO. D. WALKER,
Assistant Adjutant- General.
CHARLESTON, May 26, 1862.
General B. E. LEE, Richmond :
As telegraphed, only two regiments, but armed with Enfield rifles, go
with General Bipley. I wanted one brigadier-general for Georgia and
one for South Carolina troops; also two bonded quartermasters for gen
eral service.
J. C. PEMBEBTON,
Major- General, Commanding.
CHAP. XXVI.) CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. CONFEDERATE. 521
SPECIAL ORDERS, ) HDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF S. 0. AND GA.,
No. 50. { Charleston, May 26, 1862.
I. Brig. Gen. H. W. Mercer, Provisional Army of the Confederate
States, will relieve Brig. Gen. E. S. Eipley in the command of the
Second Military District of South Carolina.
II. General Mercer will immediately place himself in communication
with General Eipley, and obtain from that officer all necessary informa
tion in relation to the present disposition of troops and the location of
works for the defense of this harbor and city, whether already com
pleted or in progress. General Eipley is desired to impart as' far as
practicable to General Mercer his own views as to the plan most likely
to effect the speedy completion of the defenses, and generally his inti
mate knowledge of the resources available in any way for the defense
of the city.
*******
By order of Major-General Pemberton:
J. E. WADDY,
Assistant Adjutant- General.
MARS BLUFF, May 27, 1862.
Maj. Gen. J. C. PEMBERTON, C. S. A., Charleston, S. C.:
DEAR SIB : I was much gratified and thankful that you so promptly
sent a force to the Pee Dee, which was threatened by the enemy's boats.
Four companies of Colonel Graham's regiment arrived at the* obstruc
tion at Stone's Landing last night, and I left there this morning with
the confidence that the approach of any boats beyond that point was
«ut off unless they landed far below and marched in large force, which
was not probable now. The works there are a complete success, and
any forces which could be brought by the small boats able to get up the
river could be repulsed and I think captured, with their boats, before
getting off. On my return I met Colonel Graham, who showed me your
dispatch ordering the return of his regiment, at which I was surprised.
The four companies will answer our purpose there and save the rail
road bridge, when five regiments could not do it at the bridge on
account of its locality and the facility of shelling our forces from the
river.
At the point selected for obstructions the bluff on the west bank is
about 40 feet high, almost perpendicular, and the river not over 100
yards wide. On the eastern bank for miles the swamp is low, marshy,
and impenetrable. At the point of obstruction the river makes a turn
at right angle, and only 200 yards below it curves again and sweeps
around for some miles, so that it would be impossible to harm the men
on the bluffs by shells from the boats or even to land with any sort of
resistance. The obstructions are rafts of heavy timber, 3-ply, and up-
strapped with iron and securely bolted, but easily opened, so as to ad
mit of the passage of our boats. These are in 150 yards of two cannon
(18 and 12 pounders), planted securely in batteries dug down, and leav
ing the solid earth 50 feet in front. To attempt to cut or destroy the
rafts, which have been fully secured and closed, will expose the men
there to certain destruction from our large guns and small-arms. The
only means of passing is to land below and turn the batteries, and with
the force there now this I am satisfied cannot be done from the size of
522 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA, [CHAP. XXVL
the crafts necessary to come up the river. Hence my telegram to you
to-day urging that these companies remain.
We have now no force in the country. Our militia are utterly unavail
ing except for police, and are scarcely enough of effective men for that.
Our best men are in the service (2,200) from this district, being there
out of less than 2,000 voters. Those at home are poor men, and to
abandon their crops now would be to do without bread for their fam
ilies. I state these facts in no spirit of fault-finding or complaint, but
from my solicitude to save our railroad communication, the value of
which it is needless for me to mention to you.
My last advices were that the enemy had gone out to the blockading
fleet without landing, except at Cat Island, as their boats there were
too large to navigate the Pee Dee, but they can command the Planter
and the Darlington, both of which have run the river often.
A letter to Colonel Graham by the train leaving at 1 p. in. to-morrow
by Northeastern Railroad would be in time, as he will march to Myers-
ville, which will take him the day.
Yours, very respectfully,
W. W. HARLLEE.
FORT PEMBERTON, May 27, 1862.
Maj. Gen. J. C. PEMBERTON :
GENERAL: I have the honor to report that the work of obstructing
the Stono River below this post is progressing as speedily as the means
of transportation in my possession, both on land and water, will per
mit. Already several large piles of live-oak are plainly visible at low
water, and with increased facilities for carrying the timber to its posi
tion I think I would be able in a few days to effectually obstruct the
passage of the river to all boats drawing 6 feet and over. I would
therefore respectfully request that another steamer and lighter be fur
nished me at this place to assist in obstructing the river. The steamer
Marion is admirably adapted to the purpose; she has also a large lighter,
which would assist us very materially.
I am, general, your obedient servant,
WM. M. RAMSAY,
Engineer in Charge Fort Pemberton.
ADJUTANT AND INSPECTOR GENERAL'S OFFICE,
Richmond, May 28, 1862.
Major- General PEMBERTON,
Commanding, &c., Savannah, Ga. :
SIR: I am instructed by the Secretary of War to inform you that you
are authorized to change the position of the Ricco's Bluff batteries if
found necessary. General Finegan commands the Department of Mid
dle and East Florida.
Very respectfully, &c.,
R. H. CH1LTON,
Assistant Adjutant- General.
(Letter of same purport sent to Major-General Finegan, Tallahassee,
Fla.)
CHAP. XXVL] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. CONFEDERATE. 523
GENERAL ORDERS, ) HDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF S. 0. AND GA.,
No. 21. f Charleston, May 28, 1862.
I. The troops serving within this department, with exceptions here
inafter to be named, will be immediately organized into divisions and
brigades. Those within the present First and Second Military Districts
will constitute the First Division First Military District ; those within
the Military District of Georgia, the Second Division District of Georgia;
those within the Third and Sixth Military Districts will respectively
constitute independent brigades, and will be addressed Brigade Head
quarters, Fourth Military District of South Carolina. The troops now
serving within the present Fourth and Fifth Military Districts will con
stitute an independent command, and will be addressed Headquarters
Third Military District, South Carolina. The Georgia troops now in
South Carolina and the Louisiana troops in Georgia will for the present
be attached to the brigades within the military district in which they
are respectively located, but will not be considered as forming a part of
the permanent organization of such brigades.
Commanders of divisions will forthwith organize their respective
divisions into two brigades, each brigade to consist of not less than
forty companies, making as far as practicable an equal distribution of
regiments, battalions, and independent companies (field artillery and
cavalry). When a brigade shall not be under the command of a gen
eral officer the senior colonel will be assigned to the command.
The following-named officers are assigned to the command of the
several military districts as above designated, viz: Brig. Gen. H. W»
Mercer, First Military District of South Carolina; Brig. Gen. A. B.
Lawton, Military District of Georgia; Brig. Gen. T. F. Dray ton, Fourth
Military District of South Carolina; Brig. Gen. N. G. Evany, Second
Military District of South Carolina; Col. W. S. Walker, Third Military
District of South Carolina.
* * *****
By order of Major-General Pemberton:
[No signature.]
HEADQUARTERS, Richmond, Va., May 29, 1862.
Major-General PEMBERTON,
Comdg. Dept. of South Carolina and Georgia, Charleston, 8. C. :
GENERAL: It is desired that you give particular attention to the
condition of the fortifications in Charleston Harbor, not only as regards
the armament and supplies, but also as regards the condition and feel
ing of the garrisons. This is particularly important, as any disaffection
might be attended by irreparable mischief.
Since the example of Fort Jackson we cannot be too particular in
guarding against mutiny. Since your forces have been to some extent
reduced and may be still further diminished it becomes necessary for
you to make up* in vigilance any want of physical force you may have
to contend against. The importance of defending both Charleston and
Savannah to the last extremity, particularly Charleston, is earnestly
brought to your attention. The loss of Charleston would cut us on*
almost entirely from communication with the rest of the world, and
close the only channel through which we can expect to get supplies
from abroad, now almost our only dependence. You will therefore
make use of every means at your command to put these cities in the
most perfect state of defense. Your attention is particularly called to
524 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVL
the river and harbor obstructions. These should be rendered as strong
as it is possible for them to be made. Spare no labor or expense upon
them. It is also of the greatest importance that the discipline of the
garrisons of the different works should be brought to the highest state
of perfection. Let it be distinctly understood by everybody that Charles
ton and Savannah are to be defended to the last extremity. If the har
bors are taken the cities are to be fought street by street and house by
house as long as we have a foot of ground to stand upon. The State
authorities of both South Carolina and Georgia will doubtless lend you
every means at their command to aid you in your operations.
I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
K. E. LKK,
General.
HEADQUARTERS, Richmond, Va., May 29, 1862.
His Excellency FRANCIS W. PICKENS,
Governor of Souili Carolina :
GOVERNOR : Your letter of May 23 has been received. I thank you
most cordially for the freedom with which you have made your sugges
tions about the state of affairs at Charleston and will assure you that
they are duly considered. I am sure that we both estimate alike the
importance of defending the city of Charleston to the last extremity.
To lose this city now would, as you remarked, close our only channel of
communication with the foreign world, through which we have and still
hope to receive many valuable cargoes of munitions of war. The dis
sensions which have arisen among the officers who have been called to
the defense of Charleston are truly to be regretted. Steps have been
taken as far as practicable at present to remedy to some extent this
evil. General Eipley has been relieved from duty in Charleston and
ordered elsewhere and another competent officer will be sent to replace
him. I will here insert, for your information, a copy of my instructions
to General Pemberton : *
*******
I feel well assured, Governor, of your hearty co-operation with the
Confederate forces serving in your State. Harmonious action between
the State and Confederate authorities is greatly to be desired, and must
result in promoting the general good.
There are now in position in the different works about Charleston
over two hundred guns, many of these of the most improved class. I
feel confident that this number of guns, if properly managed and fought,
will render Charleston impregnable. If it, however, be found that other
guns are needed, and they can be procured, they shall be sent to Charles
ton. There are none available at this place now.
In regard to General Huger, just at this time it is impossible to comply
with your suggestion. He commands a division of General Johnston's
army around this city. Having commanded it many months, knowing its
condition, and being accustomed to the command, he cannot be relieved
without injury to the service. I esteem him very highly, and he has
always been regarded as an officer of great merit, especially as an artil
lerist. I do not know how far the causes you mention might impair his
usefulness in Carolina.
I am, Governor, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
II. K.
* See p. 523.
CHAP. XXVI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. — CONFEDERATE. 525
ADAMS EUN, S. C., May 29, 1862.
General THOMAS F. DRAYTON, Hardeeville, 8. C. :
Send a regiment at once to Pocotaligo ; they are fighting. Have
another regiment and battery ready. We will attack on the return.
J. 0. PEMBEETOX,
Major- General, Commanding.
P. S. — Hurry on your troops in trains at Hardeeville. Be careful how
you approach Coosawhatchie and Pocotaligo. If possible communi
cate with Colonel Walker at Pocotaligo before the train leaves as to
disposition of troops.
ADAMS KUN, S. C., May 29, 1862.
Gol. W. S. WALKER, Pocotaligo, S. C. :
In three hours will have 400 men at Pocotaligo ; by night two regi
ments. Let none of my messages fall into hands of the enemy. Burn
the buildings at the station should the enemy drive our men to the rail
road. Don't burn unless necessary.
J. 0. PEMBEETON,
Major -Oeneral, Commanding.
ADAMS EUN, S. C., May 29, 1862.
Brig. Gen. A. E. LAWTON, Savannah, Ga. :
Send a regiment at once by railroad to Pocotaligo. I have ordered
cars from the Central Eailroad. They are fighting.
J. C. PEMBEETON,
Major -General, Commanding.
CHARLESTON, S. C., May 29, 1862.
Maj. Gen. J. 0. PEMBERTON, Adams Run, S. C. :
Eleven companies of infantry and two sections of artillery are at
Pocotaligo from Hardeeville. The enemy at Old Pocotaligo. Walk
er's horse shot. Two men of Eutledge Mounted Eiflemen killed.
J. E. WADDY,
Assistant Adjutant- General.
CHARLESTON, May 30, 1862.
Maj. Gen. J. 0. PEMBERTON, Savannah:
Yesterday the enemy, in the forenoon, commenced throwing shot and
shell in the direction of Fort Pemberton, all of which fell short ; then
dropped down opposite Dill's farm and commenced shelling the siege
gun on the left of the intrenchments.
J. E. WADDY,
Assistant Adjutant- General.
526 COASTS OF 8. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVX
SPECIAL ORDERS, ) HEADQUARTERS DEPT. OF S. C. AND GA.,
No. 03. j Savannah , May 30, 18G2.
I. Brig. Gen. A. E. Lawton will without delay proceed to further
obstruct the Savannah River at a site just below the present obstruc
tions, by stretching a chain across the river according to the plan pur
sued in'Charleston Harbor. The chains will be supported by at least
two cribs, and if necessary by three.
II. In preparation of this obstruction the labor will be divided as far
as practicable. The most efficient workmen will be selected and placed
in charge of forging the chain; some will be selected for making and
sinking the cribs ; others will be appointed to collect material. The
iron will be obtained by Brig. Gen. A. E. Lawton in the best manner
practicable.
By order of Major-General Peinberton :
J. E. WADDY,
Assistant Adjutant- General.
HDQRS. DEPT. OF SOUTH CAROLINA AND GEORGIA,
Charleston, May 31, 1862.
W. J. MAGRATH,
President Charleston and Savannah Railroad :
SIR: To expedite the work of obstructing the channel near Forts
Sumter and Moultrie it is a matter of the first necessity that every
facility of railroad transportation for supplies of timber be furnished
those having the work in charge. I therefore earnestly beg that every
exertion be used on your part to assist in the rapid completion of this
essential work. Mr. John Cheves, Mr. F. J. Porcher, and Capt. F. D.
Lee, Engineer Department, are authorized to call upon you for this
object and to make all necessary arrangements.
J. C. PEMBEETON,
Major- General, Commanding.
CHARLESTON, May 31, 1862.
General E. E. LEE, Richmond:
General E. Kirby Smith asks me to send two or more armed regi
ments to Chattanooga or arms for his unarmed men. I have neither
to spare. A prisoner taken at Pocotaligo says the enemy is collecting
a large force on Edisto.
J. C. PEMBEETOST,
Major-General, Commanding.
HDQRS. DEPT. OF SOUTH CAROLINA AND GEORGIA,
Charleston. May 31, 1862.
Brig. Gen. K G. EVANS,
Commanding Third Military District :
GENERAL: Major-General Pemberton wishes you to increase the ob
structions in Stono Elver at Church Flats with live-oak as soon as pos
sible.
I am, &c.,
J. ft. WADDY,
Assistant Adjutant- General.
CHAP. XXVI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. CONFEDERATE. 527
HDQRS. DEPT. OF SOUTH CAROLINA AND GEORGIA,
Charleston, May 31, 1862.
W. J. MAG-RATH:
SIR: It is very desirable to keep open the direct communication be
tween Charleston and Savannah. I have not sufficient force at my dis
posal to station troops at all the assailable points. Any disposition
made must have in view availability for the defense of Charleston and
Savannah. If the company will agree to keep sufficient rolling stock
always ready to move, and at a cost to the Confederate Government of
the running expenses only, I will, so long as it shall be practicable,
keep a regiment of infantry and a section or more of artillery, in addi
tion to the cavalry already on the line of road, at some convenient and
healthy point, say McPhersonville, and the rolling stock to be habitually
near the Salkehatchie Station to avail of the turn-table for movements
in either direction. I shall also expect the regiment to be moved in the
first instance free of expense.
I am, &c.,
J. C. PEMBEBTON,
Major- General, Commanding.
HDQRS. DEPT. OF SOUTH CAROLINA AND GEORGIA,
Charleston, May 31, 1862.
Col. A. L. LONG,
Military Secretary to Commanding General :
COLONEL : I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of General
Lee's letter of the 29th instant in regard to the disaffection of the gar
rison of Fort Suinter to which the general refers. I have to say that
after as thorough an investigation as the nature of the allegations would
admit of I have arrived at the conclusion that there is no real cause
for apprehension.
The officers of the garrison express full confidence in the integrity,
courage, and discipline of their men. I presume that in all commands
of several hundred men there are some few discontented, and perhaps
in heart disloyal ; but I see no reason to suspect the garrisons of Forte
Sumter and Moultrie to be less trustworthy than others. It would be,
as the general must be aware, a very difficult matter to replace these
men by others of anything like the same efficiency ; they are admirably
well drilled, and are in that invaluable in their present position. I
presume the general has heard all the reports which have reached me
on this subject. If he considers it advisable to make changes in the
garrison it can be done, bat I do not myself think it necessary. I am
fully alive to the necessity of the greatest vigilance on our part to make
up as far as possible for the very considerable reduction of force ; so
great indeed has been this reduction as to require the abandonment of
the defense of the Charleston and Savannah Kailroad almost entirely.
The general may feel assured that I appreciate the vast importance
of the two cities, and that I will do my best to defend them to the last
extremity.
If it is possible to give me more heavy guns I beg that they may be
sent at once. I desire to establish heavy batteries in and about the
city ; but I can have no guns for them until the obstructions between
Sumter and Moultrie are completed unless they are furnished from
other places.
528 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVL
Be pleased to inform me whether there is a reasonable prospect of
my obtaining them. I also need more powder for Charleston and
Savannah both.
A very large proportion of my men are still unarmed. I earnestly
request that these subjects may have the general's immediate attention.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
J. C. PEMBEETON,
Major- General , Commanding.
EICHMOND, May 31, 1862.
Major-General PEMBERTON :
Apply to General Forney, Mobile, to know if he can spare any guns
removed from Pensacola. Do you want smooth 32-pounders ? No co-
lumbiads here.
Very respectfully,
E. E. LEE.
CHARLESTON, May 31, 1862.
General E. E. LEE, Richmond :
Yes : I want 32-pounders or any others I can get.
J. C. PEMBEETOK,
Major- General, Commanding.
EICHMOND, May 31, 1862.
Major-Gen eral PEMBERTON:
At this season I think it impossible for the enemy to make any ex
pedition into the interior. The troops that you retain there will suffer
more from disease than the enemy. Charleston and Savannah must
be held. Retain troops for that purpose. Send two good regiments
here immediately.
Very respectfully,
E. E. LEE.
HDQRS. DEPT. OF SOUTH CAROLINA AND GEORGIA,
Charleston, May 31, 1862.
General JOHN H. FORNEY,
Commanding at Mobile, Ala. :
GENERAL : Major-General Pemberton to-day received a telegram,
from General Lee telling him to call on you for heavy guns. He there
fore wishes to know whether you can send any 8 or 10 inch columbiads;
if not, any (banded) rifled 42s or 32s, and as a last resort any smooth
bores 32 or 42 pounders, and any ammunition will be thankfully re
ceived, should you have it. He hopes you will give this matter your
earliest attention, as it is very essential that the guns and ammunition
should be furnished as soon as possible for the defense of the city of
Charleston.
I am, &c.
J. E. WADDY,
Assistant Adjutant- General.
CHAP. XXVI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. CONFEDERATE.
529
Abstract from Monthly Return of the strength of the Department of South Carolina and Geor
gia, commanded by Maj. Gen. J. C. Pembcrton, for May, 1862.
Pres
d
ent for
uty.
^
*•
I-*3
S.a
Commanding officer.
Troops.
Officers.
B
o>
X
0
cS
fct
4
Aggregate ]
and abse
Major KiTiann«l
First Military District of South
21
396
487
C03
[Not indicated]
Carolina.
Second Military District of South
333
5 909
7 917
9 591
[Not indicated]
Carolina.
Thi d Military District of South
266
4 117
5 63°
6 235
Col. W. S. Walker
Carolina.
Fourth and Fifth Military Dis
68
1 070
1 272
1 550
[Not indicated]
tricts of South Carolina.
Sixth Military District of South
145
2 599
3 254
3 517
Brig. Gen. S. R. Gist
Carolina.
Jatnes IsVuid
188
2 98*)
3 995
4 431
Brig. Gen. H. W. Mercer
Military District of Georgia * ....
8 165
Grand total
1 0°1
17 076
2° 487
34 112
No return made.
Organization of troops in the Department of South Carolina and Georgia,
commanded by Maj. Gen. J. C. Pemberton, May, 18G2.
FIRST MILITARY DISTRICT OF SOUTH CAROLINA.
Maj. W. P. EMANUEL commanding.
SECOND MILITARY DISTRICT OF SOUTH CAROLINA.
46th Georgia, Col. [P. H.] Colquitt.
1st South Carolina, Col. Johnson Hagood.
18th South Carolina, Col. J. M. Gadberry.
'20th South Carolina, Col. L. M. Keitt.
21st South Carolina, Col. R. F. Graham.
22d South Carolina, Col. S. D. Goodlett,
23d South Carolina, Col. H. L. Benbow.
Byrd's (South Carolina) battalion, Major Byrd.
Smith's (South Carolina) battalion.
3d Battalion South Carolina Cavalry.
German Hussars.
Mulligan's company cavalry.
1st Sourh Carolina Artillery.
Alston's battalion artillery^ Captain Alston.
Boyce's light battery, Captain Boyce.
Ferguson's light artillery, Captain Ferguson.
German Lig t Artillery, Company A.
Kanapaux's light battery. Captain Kanapaux.
Nelson (Virginia) Light Artillery.
White's battalion artillery (four companies).
Gunboats Nos. 1 and 2.
THIRD MILITARY DISTRICT OF S )UTH CAROLINA.
51st Georgia, 'Col. W. M. Slaughter.
16th South Carolina, Col. James McCullough.
17th South Carolina, Col. J. H. Means.
Holcombe (South Carolina) Legion, Col. P. F. Stevens.
3d South Carolina Battalion, Lieutenant-Colonel James.
7th South Carolina Battali. n, Maj. P. II. Nelson.
1st Battalion Rilles, Lieutenant-Colonel Moore.
34 R R — VOL XIV
530 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVI.
THIRD MILITARY DISTRICT OF SOUTH CAROLINA— Continued.
Detachment First South Carolina Infantry and McCord'sandRion's companies.
1st Battalion Cavalry, Lieutenant-Colonel Black.
Rebel Troop, Capt. J. Jenkins.
Cavalry on John's and Wadmalaw Islands, Captain Owen.
Marion Artillery, Captain Parker.
Virginia Light Artillery, Captain Leake.
Washington Artillery, Captain Walter.
FOURTH AND FIFTH MILITARY DISTRICTS OF SOUTH CAROLINA.
Col. W. S. WALKER commanding.
SIXTH MILITARY DISTRICT OF SOUTH CAROLINA.
Phillips' (Georgia) Legion, Col. William Phillips.
llth South Carolina, Col. D. H. Ellis.
15th South Carolina, Col. W. D. De Saussure.
Battalion South Carolina Cavalry, Lieut. Col. C. J. Colcock.
Saint Peter's Guards, Capt. H. C. Smart.
Caroline (Virginia) Light Artillery, Capt. T. R. Thornton.
JAMES ISLAND.
Brig. Gen. S. R. GIST commanding.
24th South Carolina, Col. C. H. Stevens,
2d Battalion South Carolina Artillery, Maj. J. W. Brown.
Charleston Battalion South Carolina Volunteers, Lieutenant-Colonel Gaillard.
Eutaw Battalion South Carolina Volunteers, Lieutenant-Colonel Simonton.
Palmetto Battalion South Carolina Volunteers, Maj. E. B. White.
3d Battalion South Carolina Cavalry, Company D.
1st Battalion South Carolina Artillery, Colonel Lamar.
Preston's (South Carolina) light artillery.
Fort Pemberton, Lieutenant-Colonel Huger.
MILITARY DISTRICT OF GEORGIA.
Brig. Gen. H. W. MERCER commanding.
Abstract from Monthly Return of the troops of the Military Department of East and Middle
Florida, commanded by Brig. Gen. Joseph Finegan, for May, 1862.
Troops.
Present for duty.
4i
1
tc
4
Aggregate present
and absent.
Infantry.
Cavalry.
Arti
i
llery.
1
I
t
3
s
I
1
5th Regiment Florida Volunteers
29
31
22
46
615
347
340
1,003
800
749
423
1, 137
296
385
1,051
998
545
1,359
385
489
6th Regiment Florida Volunteers
1st Special Battalion
Fifteen separate companies of infantry
Four separate companies of cavalry
10
254
Three separate companies of artillery
14
306
306
Grand total
128
2,305
10 | 254
14
3,790
4,827
CHAP. XXVI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.— CONFEDERATE. 531
HDQRS. DEPT. OF SOUTH CAROLINA AND GEORGIA, •
Charleston, S. C., June 1, 1862.
Hon. GEORGE W. EANDOLPH,
Secretary of War:
SIR: The work of obstructing the harbor and other water approaches
to this city is very much impeded by the want of funds to pay the
workmen and defray their current expenses. I have made temporary
arrangements to borrowT money for this purpose from the Bank of
Charleston, but must earnestly beg that immediate arrangements be
made by the Department to provide the necessary funds. I under
stand there is in the hands of the assistant treasurer here $100,000
subject to the order of Captain (now Colonel) Ives, late chief engineer
of this department. This money can only be drawn on his order. I
request that it be made subject to draft by Gapt. Francis D. Lee, En
gineer Corps, Provisional Army of the Confederate States. Of this
$100,000 say $60,000, 1 understand, is already due for services rendered
and material purchased. There should be not less than $100,000 at the
disposal of Captain Lee, as disbursing officer for the Engineer Depart
ment. I send Mr. James Manigault, of South Carolina, to see you per
sonally on the subject.
Very respectfully,
J. C. PEMBEETON,
Major- Genera I, Commanding.
HDQRS. DEPT. OF SOUTH CAROLINA AND GEORGIA,
Charleston, 8. C., June 1, 1862.
Col. W. E. BOGGS, Engineer Officer :
COLONEL: I am directed by Major-General Pemberton to say that
he prefers Fort Gadsden, or just below it, as a site, with the guns from
Eicco's Bluif, to any other point on the river. He has no guns that he
can spare you. He would advise that the obstructions be placed near
the guns— say 600 or 700 yards from the guns.
I am, &c.,
J. E. WADDY,
Assistant Adjutant- General.
WAR DEPARTMENT, C. S. A.,
Richmond, June 2, 1862.
Maj. Gen. J. C. PEMBERTON,
Comdg. Department of South Carolina, Georgia, &c. :
GENERAL : You are respectfully referred to the annexed copy of a
letter from Maj. G. W. Eains in regard to the defense of Augusta, and
you are requested to station such troops as can be spared for the better
protection of the place.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
G. W. EANDOLPH,
Secretary of War.
[In closure.]
AUGUSTA, GA., May 25, 1862.
Lieut. Col. J. GORGAS, Chief of Ordnance :
COLONEL: Some three months since I received a communication from
General Lee, authorizing and instructing me to place such obstructions
532 COASTS or s. c , GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA.
in »the Savannah River below Augusta and erect such defenses as I
might judge proper to protect this city from an attack by water. The
defenses and obstructions have been completed as far as my limited
facilities would permit, and if properly held will, I think, be able to stop
his approach by water with such of his gunboats as would be able to
ascend the river. To provide against a land attack by a body of troops
lauded from his gunboats it would be necessary to construct one or more
field works of small command in the vicinity of the defenses of the river,
and I would respectfully call the attention of the Department of War
to such necessity.
The city of Augusta, I presume, is regarded by the commanding gen
eral, from the tenor of bis communications to myself, as of vital impor
tance to the Confederacy, being tbe great center of the inland line of
communication between the States of the East and West, which, if taken,
might and probably would result in the complete isolation of the por
tions of the Confederacy, without a possibility of practical communica
tion between the two; also completely neutralizing the resources of the
State of Georgia for the purposes of the war.
The city admits of easy defense if the necessary arrangements are on
hand when required, but experience has demonstrated to us the neces
sity of timely taking matters in hand instead of counting on exertions,
however energetic, in the hour of action.
The very valuable Government works here located and great amount
of cotton here accumulated, independently of the strategic importance
of the point itself, requires all proper precautions to be taken for its
preservation.
Until within a few days I could procure no force to man the defenses
erected below the city, notwithstanding my efforts in different quarters,
and even now but two incomplete companies belonging to Major Capers7
new artillery battalion are there stationed.
On such a force, with but one piece of heavy artillery and some field
pieces, does the safety of this city depend should the attempt be sud
denly made to ascend the river if Savannah be taken.
I have endeavored to get the citizens (through the mayor) to organize
companies for such defense, but the large number supplied by Augusta
to the Confederate Army, joined to the inability to digest the actual
condition of things until just at hand, have prevented so far any success
in this direction. I think if one regiment or battalion (say Major Capers')
were permanently stationed in this vicinity it would perhaps be all that
would be required to resist effectually an attempt up the river, if they had
the advantage of one or two field works as points tfappui near the forti
fications of the river on the bluff. In such case it would be necessary
that they should have small-arms in addition to their field artillery. Of
course I understand by this that such a force would* be able to resist a
raid up the river and not an attack in force ; the latter would neces
sarily involve time by the enemy and give it to prepare for his advance;
in such'case the forces, or a portion of them, now near Savannah and
Charleston would be made available.
The defenses or works I have erected on the river are on a plateau
about 50 or CO feet above the water, projecting out from the high adja
cent bluff which commands them, and which is a bout 150 feet in height;
somewhat like West Point, except the plateau is but just large enough
for the batteries, and the bluff rises immediately above. The river is
only 250 yards broad at this place, with a swift current. I have
passed a heavy chain across the river, supported by and underneath
CHAP. XXVI.) CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. CONFEDERATE. 533
rafts, the whole extent of which is under the fire of the columbiad and
light artillery and small-arms.
Having no authority to shut up the river I have been compelled to
partially drop the chain and remove some of the rafts to allow some of
the boats to pass, which I think places things somewhat to hazard on
an emergency, and would suggest to the War Department that author
ity be given to close up the river at this point, the navigation being of
but little moment.
Should an emergency arise it would be highly desirable and indeed
absolutely necessary that power should be vested in some one resident
in or near the city to place it under martial law ; otherwise the safety of
the city would be endangered, and the very large amount of cotton
stored here would be taken by the enemy.
I regret to say that although no community are more pathetic or
willing to make all required sacrifices for the common cause, as they
have shown on various occasions, there are individuals of influence and
position who would be entirely willing to enter into commercial rela
tions with the enemy should he succeed in forcing his way to this city,
and I feel confident it is with such views that the efforts to delay rail
roads through the streets to the cotton warehouses to facilitate its re
moval, which I strongly urged, have entirely failed, although doubtless
many have been reluctant to remove the cotton on account of the dam
age and loss it would experience.
In conclusion I state that it was mutually agreed upon between the
city authorities and myself to divide the cost of the river defenses, and
as the amount thus expended has been entirely defrayed by the city up
to the present time by agreement to take the trouble off my hands, I
would desire to know if 1 have authority to pay out from the funds in
my hands the proportion of the expense attaching under the arrange
ment to the Government and amounting to about $6,000, or whether
the same is to be paid out by the Engineer Department.
I have written this communication under the supposition that it will
be referred to the Secretary of War, as it refers to matters outside of
the legitimate duties of the Ordnance Bureau.
Kespectfully,
GEO. W. KAINS,
Major Artillery and Ordnance, Commanding.
[Indorsement.]
MAY 29, 1862.
Eespectfully referred to the Secretary of War, with an earnest request
that some force be permanently stationed at Augusta, Ga., to cover the
city, arsenal, and powder-mills, and that a commanding officer be as
signed, with power to declare martial law in case of invasion.
• J. GOKGAS,
Colonel, Chief of Ordnance.
CHARLESTON, S. C., June 2, 1862.
General B. E. LEE :
General Forney is absent. His adjutant-general says he has no guns
to spare, J must have more guns, Please furnish me at once.
J. C. PEMBERTON, \
Major- General, Commanding, \
534 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID AND J^AST FLA. [CHAI-. XXVI.
RICHMOND, VA., June 2, 1862.
Major-General PEMBERTON :
General Lee is in the field. Needs re-enforceinents. Can you give
them? Decisive operations are pending here in this section, and the
climate already restrains operations on the coast. You may render
important service by the prompt detachment of as many troops as you
can spare.
JEFFERSON DAVIS.
COLUMBIA, S. C., June 2, 1862.
Major-General PEMBERTON :
I understood you intend to take thirty or forty guns out of Sumter.
I would be greatly obliged to know if this is so, for General Lee has
just written we can get more guns. I allowed Beauregard to take ten
of our State guns and seven State mortars to Pensacola. We can get
them back now.
F. W. PICKENS.
HDQRS. DEFT. OF SOUTH CAROLINA AND GEORGIA,
Charleston, S. C., June 2, 1862.
Brig. Gen. N. G. EVANS,
Commanding Third Military District :
GENERAL : General Gist informed me that [there are] seven additional
gunboats, making, as I understand it, fifteen in all, in the Stono, and
live outside and others in view. I presume this is a beginning of Burn-
side's fleet and we shall probably be attacked. I wish you to be in
readiness to act as circumstances may require. It is essential tha£ you
keep the communication by Rantowles and Wallace's Bridge open.
Have everything in readiness. You had better establish your own
headquarters at Adams Run Station for the present, that I may readily
communicate with you.
J. C. PEMBERTON,
[Major- General, Commanding. \
HDQRS. DEPT. OF SOUTH CAROLINA AND GEORGIA,
Charleston, 8. C., June 2, 1862.
Brig. Gen. THOMAS F. DRAYTON, Hardeeville:
Send Colonel De Saussute's regiment to this city at once. The
transportation will be furnished from Savannah.
J. W. WADDY,
Assistant Adjutant- General.
CHARLESTON, S. C., June 2, 1862.
Brig. Gen. A. R. LAWTON, Savannah, Ga.:
You will furnish transportation at once for one regiment from Har
deeville and hold your command in readiness to move to Charleston,
S, C,
R. W. MEMM1NGER,
Assistant Adjutant- General,
CHAP. XXVI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. — CONFEDERATE. 535
HDQRS. DEFT. OF SOUTH CAROLINA AND GEORGIA,
Charleston, S. C., June 2, 1862.
Brigadier-General MERCER.
Commanding Second Military District :
GENERAL: I have just received a telegram from General Gist, of
which the following is a copy :
SECESSIONVILLE, S. C., June 2, 1862.
Seven additional gunboats in Stono, five at anchor outside, and others in sight. We
may look out for the attack at any hour. Two of the vessels are reported transports.
S. R. GIST.
Have all troops notified and ready to move at a moment's notice;
let the batteries look to their ammunition. Send proper persons to
see they have all that is necessary. Every regiment should carry 40
rounds of ammunition and have in wagons as much more. You must
throw another regiment over to General Gist and a field battery to be
at hand; another regiment to man the lines east, at Newton's Cut, and
an additional battery for the same part of the lines. If the enemy
attempts to land he must be attacked to-night or whenever he leaves
the cover of his gunboats. Cooks must be left in camp to keep the
men supplied. Every man should fill his canteen with water before
starting. Notify commanding officers of Sumter and Moultrie, Forts
Johnson and Beauregard.
J. C. PEMBEETON, *
Major- General, Commanding.
JAMES ISLAND,
Charleston S. C., June 2, 1862—9.30 p. m.
JEFFERSON DAVIS, President:
Twenty vessels are in and off the Stono and increasing in number.
If they attack it will be by land and water. If you say risk it, I will
order 5,000 men from Savannah, but I think it will be dangerous. 1
am now in the field. I have ordered them to be ready.
J. C. PEMBEETON,
Major- General, Commanding.
CHARLESTON, S. C., June 3, 1862.
Brigadier-General LAWTON, Savannah, Ga. :
Send immediately to this point two more regiments, making in all
three. Send Genera) Smith with them.
J. C. PEMBEETON,
Major-General, Commanding.
CHARLESTON, S. C., June 3, 1862.
GEORGE W. EANDOLPH,
Secretary of War, Richmond, Va. :
There are strong indications of a general attack on Charleston. I
shall be obliged to draw largely on Savannah for troops. Can I get
any from North Carolina ?
J. C. PEMBEETON,
Major- General j Commanding.
53G COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAM' FLA. [CIIAI-. XXVI.
RICHMOND, VA., June 3, 1862.
Major-General PEMBERTON :
General Lawton desires to come to Virginia with troops from Georgia.
I hear the enemy in Virginia are drawing re-enforcements from forces
opposed to you.
E. E. LEE.
HDQRS. DEPT. OF SOUTH CAROLINA AND GEORGIA,
Charleston, 8. C., June 3, 1862.
Maj..J. B. WHITE:
MAJOR: I am directed by the major-general commanding to say you
are desired to move the guns at the Citadel in Charleston and place
them in position on the redans and redoubts on the lines on James
Island west of Newton's Cut.
E. W. MEMMINGEE,
Assistant Adjutant- General.
CHARLESTON, S. C.^une 3, 1862—1.45 p. in.
GEORGE W. EANDOLPH,
Secretary of War :
The enemy are advancing in considerable force toward the railroad
from Seabrook Island. General Evans, with two regiments and artil
lery, will attack them.
J. C. PEMBEETOISr,
Major- General, Co m ma n ding.
CHARLESTON, S. C., June 3, 1862.
General EVANS, Adams Run or LonansviUe :
A regiment has been ordered to support your right. Have some one
at Adams Eun to conduct the regiment.
J. E. WADDY,
Assistant Adjutant- General.
CHARLESTON, S. C., June 3, 1862.
General DRAYTON, Hardeeville :
Send the Eleventh Eegiment South Carolina Volunteers to support
the right flank of General Evans to stop at Adams Eun and report at
once to General Evans.
J. E. WADDY,
Assistant Adjutant- General.
CHARLESTON, S. C., June 3, 1862.
Brigadier-General LAWTON, Savannah, Ga.:
Have two more regiments in readiness to move to this point. Have
transportation prepared,
J. C. PEMBEETON,
])[ajor- General^
Ciur. XXVI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. CONFEDERATE. f)37
CHARLESTON. S. C., June 3, 1862.
Brig. Gen. S. E. GIST, Secessionville, S. C.:
General Mercer Las gone down with my instructions. General Evans
reports by telegraph advance of enemy toward his position with cavalry,
artillery, and infantry. I have ordered an additional regiment from
Hardeeville and one from Savannah, one regiment to be halted at the
railroad depot in Saint Andrew's to give you assistance if necessary.
Unless absolutely necessary I cannot leave here at present. One reg
iment should be kept in reserve on the lines east of Newton's Cut;
Colonel Colquitt's regiment west of Newton's Cut. G»ive all attention
to keeping ammunition dry.
J. C. PEMBEETON,
Major- General, Commanding.
CHARLESTON, S. C., June 3, 1862.
Brig. Gen. N. G. EVANS, Adams Run :.
Prisoners this morning captured on James Island report 1,700 lauded
at Legareville, on John's Island. If possible attack them at onc^e; look
out ; keep open your rear.
J. E, WADDY,
Assistant Adjutant General.
HDQRS. DEPT. OF SOUTH CAROLINA AND GEORGIA,
Charleston, IS. C., June 3, 1802.
Brigadier- Gen ejal MERCER,
Commanding Second Military District :
GENERAL: I am instructed by Major General Pemberton to direct
that you have a good force in reserve near the bridge crossing the
Wappoo Cut on this side.
J. C. TAYLOR,
Aide de-Camp.
CHARLESTON, S. C., June 3. 1862.
Brigadier-General LAWTON, Savannah, Ga. :
No cavalry or artillery will be included. You will take tents, but
not be encumbered. The enemy lauded on Stono in considerable force.
May need you here. •
J. C. PEMBEETON,
Major- General, Commanding.
HDQRS. DEPT. OF SOUTH CAROLINA AND GEORGIA,
Charleston, S. C., June 3, 1862. '
General S. E. GIST,
Commanding James Island, S. C. :
GENERAL: The major-general commanding directs that you make
arrangements to man the guns on the east side of the lines of intrench-
ments at Newton's Cut. You can take the men froi.i Maj. J. B. White's
or from Oolopel kawiw's regiuieut, The eight pieces from
538 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVI.
the Citadel and the Corps of Cadets from the Citadel leave under the
command of Mai. J. B. White for you as soon as possible.
J. E. WADDY,
Assistant Adjutant- General.
CHARLESTON, S. C., June 3, 1862.
General LAWTON, Savannah, Oa. :
Send one regiment here for temporary service.
, J. E. WADDY,
Assistant Adjutant- General.
HDQRS. DEPT. OF SOUTH CAROLINA AND GEORGIA,
Charleston, S. C., June 3, 1862.
Brigadier- General MERCER,
Commanding, &c. [James Island] :
GENERAL : You will use the utmost vigilance to prevent the enemy
from gainiug information of the country by reconnaissance. Your men
should keep concealed, lyiug down to avoid the effect of shells. If your
attack is made at night let your men, on approaching the position of
the enemy in skirmish order, deliver a fire from one rank only, and im
mediately after let all lie down, those who have discharged their pieces
reloading in that position, or if near enough to use the bayonet do so
immediately after the discharge of the pieces. I certainly expect to
have a good account from you before daylight.
J. C. PEMBEETON,
Major -General, Commanding.
SPECIAL ORDERS, \ HEADQUARTERS DEPT. OF S. C. AND GA.,
No. 67. } Charleston, 8. C., Jmne 3, 1862.
* *****
III. The city of Charleston being at this time threatened, Maj. J. B.
White, superintendent of the State Military Academy, will proceed with
as little delay as possible with the Corps of Cadets and the eight pieces
at the Citadel belonging to the State of South Carolina to James Island
and report to Brig. Gen. S. E. Gist, Provisional Army of the Confed
erate States", to occupy the west side of the line of intrenchments at
Newton's Cut.
* * * * # * #
VIII. Lieutenant Colonel WTagner, First South Carolina Artillery, will
proceed, on receipt of this order, to erect a battery at Cuumiings Point
at such point as may be selected. Colonel Benbow will furnish a daily
detail for carrying on the work under the direction of Lieutenant-Colonel
Wagner until such time as laborers can be furnished.
By order of Major-General Peinberton:
J. E. WADDY,
Assistant Adjutant- General.
EICHMOND, VA., June 4, 1862.
His Excellency Governor CLARK, Raleigh, N. C. :
General Peniberton telegraphs that lie is expecting every moment an
CHAP. XXVI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. CONFEDERATE. 539
attack at Charleston, and wishes assistance from North Carolina, if pos
sible. Success there will bring the enemy -upon you. Assist Pember-
ton if you can.
G. W. RANDOLPH,
Secretary of War.
HDQRS. DEPT. OF SOUTH CAROLINA AND GEORGIA,
Charleston, S. C., June 4, 1862.
Brigadier-General MERCER,
Commanding James Island, 8. C. :
GENERAL : I am directed by the major-general commanding to say
that you are not to fall back with your command behind the mtrencli-
ments nor to abandon Secessionville. Ee -enforcements have been or
dered from Savannah, and will soon arrive, who will relieve your
present regiments, allowing time for rest. Supplies will soon be" fur
nished and a supply of whisky will be sent to revive your fatigued
troops.
I am. &c.,
E. W. MEMMINGEE,
Assistant Adjutant- General.
EICHMOND* VA., June 4, 1862.
Major-General PEMBERTON:
The call made on you for troops was the result of pressing necessity.
It was hoped the season would secure you against operations inland,
and that you could spare troops without weakening your strength for
the defense of Charleston. You can estimate the consequence to the
common cause which depends upon success here. Send three regi
ments, or, if you think it safe to do so, send the larger number named
by you.
JEFFEESON DAVIS.
CHARLESTON, S. C., June 4, 1862 — 7 p. m.
JEFFERSON DAVIS, President:
Have just received your dispatch. Shall order three regiments from
Savannah. Am drawing re-enforcements from there for Charleston also.
The enemy is re-enforcing also, both in gunboats and troops. I may
have to abandon one city or the other. Shall meet all your require
ments promptly.
J. C. PEMBEETON,
Major- General, Commanding.
CHARLESTON, S. C., June 4, 1862,
JEFFERSON DAYIS, President :
I send four strong regiments under Brigadier General Lawtou. If I
could get more heavy guns I could do well.
J. C. PEMBEETON,
Major- General^ Commanding,
540 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. I^«AT. XXVI.
RICHMOND, YA., June 4, 1862.
Major-Geueral PEMBERTON :
Under the circumstances communicated in your last dispatch you
will delay compliance with my requisition. The troops being brought
to Charleston can be sent on in a few days if the demonstration proves
a feint. If you gain a victory yon can (io more for this line- than was
proposed.
JEFFERSON DAYIS.
RICHMOND, YA., June 4, 1862.
Gov. FRANCIS W. PICKENS, Columbia, S. C.:
Your dispatches of yesterday received. It was not intended to weaken
the force for defense of Charleston, but to obtain troops by withdraw
ing from positions where the season will prevent active operations. The
proposition was induced by a seeming necessity. To your inquiry I
answer, not safe. The event raay^be local; its consequences will be
general.
JEFFERSON DAYIS.
HEADQUARTERS STATE OF SOUTH CAROLINA,
Columbia, June 4, 1862.
Major-General PEMBERTON, Commanding:
GENERAL: Adjutant-General De Saussure will deliver this to you.
He is authorized to offer you any aid in the power of the State to assist
you either in the held or in organizing the local reserves for the defense
and protection of the city, lie will inform fully on this point if desired.
He is also intimately acquainted with the efficiency and strength of all
city companies that may have been mustered into Confederate service.
I shall be most happy to nerve and aid you in any manner that you
may desire. We have niusten d all our troops into Confederate serv
ice, and armed them almost entirely from our own State resources; but
in furnishing a city police and holding the reserves of the State under
orders to support you we may be of service, and for this purpose Gen
eral De Saussure has full and ample authority.
Respectfully,
F. W. PICKENS.
HDQRS. DEPT. OF SOUTH CAROLINA AND GEORGIA,
Charleston, 8. (7., June 4, 1862.
Lieut. Col. C. K. HUGER, Fort Pemberton, 8. C.:
COLONEL: The 24-pounder rifled guns to which you refer had better
be placed in the battery with the rifled (banded) 32-pounder pointing
down the river. You say nothing of cartridges for those guns. I trust
you have them. There is not another pound of cannon powder in the
arsenal. You had better take some of the blasting powder out of the
torpedoes and mix with other powder for the mortars, and, it you have
none other, for the 24-pounder also.
J. C. PEMBERTON,
Major- General^ Commanding,
CHAP. XXVt.] CORRESPONDrlXCE, ETC. — CONtT. DILATE. 5 il
HDQRS. DEPT. OF SOUTH CAROLINA AND GEORGIA,
Charleston, 8. 6'., June 4, 1862.
Maj. W. P. EMANUEL,
• Commanding near Georgetown :
MAJOR: I have received a communication from Mr. Francis S. Par
ker, of Georgetown District, in relation to the deficiency of arms for
your companies ; also in regard to the disposition of the command in
reference to prevention of slaves escaping. You are directed to obtain,
by impressment or otherwise, all double-barrel guns, rifles, pistols, &c.
You are authorized to arm your men, as far as they will go, with the
pistols sale] to belong to the Government and to have been left by
steamer Nashville, sending your receipt therefor to Colonel Gorgas,
Chief of Ordnance, Richmond. J have no arms of any description to
furnish you with, nor do 1 see any 'prospect of getting them. You
will locate your troops with a view to prevent the escape of slaves and
for protection if persons and property against insubordination of ne
groes. You will use every energy to effect these objects as far as it
may be practicable with your small command.
J. C. PEMBERTON,
Major- General, Commanding.
CHARLESTON, S. C., June 4, 1862.
Col. J. GORGAS, Richmond, Va.:
I must have cannon powder to defend Charleston. Captain Childs
has lately sent 15,000 pounds to Macon and the same quantity to At
lanta. I- need this and more. I request that neighboring arsenals be
instructed to fill requisitions made by me for small-arms and ammuni
tion in preference to all other orders.
J. C. PEMBERTON,
Major- General, Commanding.
RALEIGH, K C., June 4, 1862.
GEORGE W. RANDOLPH,
Secretary of War :
I would gladly comply with your request to aid General Pemberton,
but the regiments T hatt collected and prepared for our State defense
have, without consultation with me, been sent off by General Holmes
to Petersburg and Richmond, and I am now in want of troops for Wil
mington, Goldsborough, and Weldon. General Holmes has the control
of regiments at each of these places and you can call on him.
HENRY T. CLARK.
HEADQUARTERS,
Near Richmond, Va., June 4, 1862.
Maj. Gen. J. C. PEMBERTON, Commanding, &c.:
GENERAL : I am directed by General Lee to acknowledge the receipt
of your letter of the 21st ultimo, and to say that he had referred the
same to His Excellency the President for his consideration, at the same
542 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [<<n\
time expressing his convictions that it is not always possible for iron
ships to pass batteries when the latter are well fought, as was proven
at Drewry's Bluff, on James River. The general thinks, moreover, that
if the enemy is allowed to enter the harbor he could establish himself
on James Island, at Dill's Bluff, and construct batteries which would
command any you might erect in the city. Though he cannot recom
mend the dismantling of Forts Su inter and Moultrie, he thinks certain
guns might be quietly removed from them, perhaps without injury, and
used to advantage elsewhere. 1 am instructed by the general to add
that he has to-day communicated with the Chief of Ordnance Bureau
on the subject of procuring small arms and heavy guns for you, and
that he will do what is possible toward supplying your wants in these
respects.
I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
W. H. TAYLOR,
Major and Aide-de- Camp.
COLUMBUS. GA., June 4, 1862.
Maj. Gen. J. C. PEMBERTON,
Comdg. C. S. Forces, S. C. and Ga., Charleston, S. C. :
GENERAL : In closing so abruptly the work upon which I am engaged
I have considered it proper to send you copies of my entire correspond
ence, except such as I hajve had with yourself. From this correspond
ence you will see the steps taken by myself to insure the proper com
pletion of the work.
On my return from Tallahassee I wrote to Captain Dillard, .quarter
master at Columbus, requesting him to get as soon as possible at least
100 laborers, with rations, tents, &c.. and advise me by telegraph at
Chattahoochee how many hands he could get, and whether he would
require my boat for their transportation. In .the mean time I made a
more complete examination of the lower river. I inclose herewith his
advertisement for the hands.
On my return to Chattahoochee I received a letter from Captain
Dillard, of which I inclose a copy. I at once determined to return
to this place and seek the assistance of Dr. Bozeman, mayor of Colum
bus; also that of Dr. Thornton, mayor of Eufaula, and Mr. McNab,
also of Eufaula, who were commissioners to act upon the subject, never
for a moment doubting that the laborers would be, furnished with the
utmost promptness. I had all the supplies for the hands stored upon
the boat. Yesterday morning Dr. Bozeman informed me that it was
almost impossible to get hands from Columbus or Eufaula, but sug
gested that higher wages be offered as an inducement. I at once
authorized $1 per day, medical attendance, rations, &c., and requested
him to telegraph to Euiaula to that effect and ask how many hands
could be had. Upon the receipt of the answer (a copy of which I in
close) I telegraphed you that no laborers could be had and my serv
ices were no longer necessary. Your reply was received this evening,
and I shall return to Milled geville to-morrow. Learning that Judge
Iverson was in the town I called upon him and laid the whole matter
before him, reading htm the entire correspondence and pointing out
upon the map the results of my reconnaissance. He seemed grieved
at the turn of affairs, but could see no remedy. A proposition has
been made to suspend the work until the crops are gathered in, &c.; to
CHAP. XXVI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC." — CONFEDERATE. 543
this I object, and shall respectfully decline giving my personal super
vision under such circumstances.
To Captain Dillard, of the Quartermaster's Department, I am very
much indebted for his prompt response to all my calls upon him, also
to the captain of the steamer, pilots, and guides.
I am, general, with great respect, your obedient servant,
W. E. BOGGS,
Engineer, &c.
[Indorsement.]
, HDQRS. DEPT. OF SOUTH CAROLINA AND GEORGIA,
Charleston, 8. C., June 15, 1862.
Eespectfully forwarded for the information of the War Department.
The work is not going on, the planters in that district of country hav
ing failed to furnish the necessary labor to carry on the work and it
being impracticable to obtain it otherwise.
J. C. PEMBEETON,
Major- General, Comdy. Department of 8. C. and Ga.
[Inclosure Xo. 1.]
STEAMER MUNNERLYN, May 24, 1862.
Captain DILLARD, Quartermaster, Columbus, Ga. :
CAPTAIN : I will require for my work upon the river from 150 to 200
laborers, 50 tents, and 4 wall-tents. Will you please engage as many
laborers as you can, and arrange with the commissary that men, tents,
and provisions shall come down together! Among ihe laborers there
should be 5 or 6 common carpenters, 1 or 2 ordinary bricklayers, and 4
good cooks. Some of the laborers 1 may be able to get elsewhere. I
have written to General Pembertou to send instructions to the commis
sary concerning the rations. I inclose a requisition for 2,000, which I
would be pleased to have you hand him and explain its nature. Please
telegraph me at Chattahoochee how many laborers, &c., you can get;
also if you will need this boat to bring down the men, rations, &c.
I am, &c.,
W. E. BOGGS,
Engineer, &c.
[Inclosure Xo. 2.]
COLUMBUS, GA., May 28, 1862.
Col. W. E. BOGGS:
DEAR SIR : Your favor of the 24th instant duly received. It will
be, I think, impossible to procure the laborers you ask for, but 1 will
try and advise by telegraph. The tents and commissary stores I will
furnish as soon as possible. You have not sent me the receipts for the
last requisitions which I sent you. Please do so at once.
Yours, truly,
F. W. DILLAED,
Assistant Quartermaster.
[Inclosuro No. 3.]
STEAMER MUNNERLYN, May 29, 1862.
Capt. F. W. DILLARD, Columbus, Ga.:
CAPTAIN: Yours of yesterday reached me this morning and deter
mined me to return at once to Columbus. I shall leave the boat at
544 COASTS or s c., GA., AND MTD. A?:t> EAST FLA [CHAP. xxvi.
Fort Gaines and will meet her again at Columbus on Monday. I have
written to Dr. Bozemau for assistance in getting hands; also to Messrs.
McNab and Thornton at Eufaula. I hope to organize rny force and
start down the river again on Monday, June 2. If I succeed in getting
the number of hands I want I will require 2,000 more rations than I
wrote for. Please advise the commissary for me. I will also require
cooking utensils for 200 men. I prefer to take hands, rations, tents,
&c., on the Munuerlyn.
I am, captain, your obedient servant,
W. R. BOGGS,
Engineer, &c.
[Inclosure No. 4.]
COLUMBUS, GA., May 20, 1862.
Captain BOGGS,
Chief of Engineers and Artillery, State of Georgia:
DEAR SIR: I am sorry that I did not ha\v the pleasure of meeting
with you as you passed through this city. It seems that events worked
around in a circle, placing you where it was we desired to have you
more than two mouths ago.
I have just returned from Eufaula to confer with authorities there on
the subject of aiding in protecting the river against approaches next
winter. I am happy to assure you, on the part of Dr. Thornton, mayor
of Eufaula, and myself, that in our respective spheres we will cordially
co operate with you in carrying out effectually your vigorous efforts to
that end. Any agency that I can exercise for you here you my readily
command me.
Yours, very truly,
JAS. F. BOZEMAN,
Mayor.
[Inclosure No. 5.J
STEAMER MUNNERLYN,
Chattahoochee River, Oa., May 29, 1862.
Dr. J. F. BOZEMAN, Mayor of Columbus, Oa. :
MY DEAR SIR : I am all ready now to go to work if I can get the
hands. I want 200, and will be obliged to you for your assistance in
getting them. 1 have written to Messrs. McNab and Thornton, at
Eufaula, to telegraph you how mnny they can furnish. I will send the
steamer to Columbus for the hands, provisions, tents, &c., and will join
them here on Monday, June 2. If the hands are ready by that time I
shall go down again at once. The Confederacy will pay, find, and fur
nish medical attendance and medicines, also the necessary shelter for
the hands. It will be my special care to see that the hands are cared
for while under my control.
I am, sir, with great respect, your obedient servant,
W. B. BOGGS,
Engineer, &c.
[Inclosure No. 6.]
EUFAULA, ALA., June 3, 1862.
Dr. BOZEMAN:
No hands ready ; several engaged. Difficult to obtain laborers until
crops are secured.
J. McNAB.
W. 11. TIIOBXTON.
CHAP. XXVI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. — CONFEDERATE. 545
[Inclosuro No 7 ]
EUFAULA, ALA., May 21, 1862.
Colonel BOGGS:
SIR: We take the liberty of writing you to state that we have been
appointed by Governor Shorter commissioners on the part of Alabama
to represent the State in carrying into execution such duties as may
devolve on us in the system of operations that you adopt, as engineer,
with a view to obstruct the river. We are advised by the mayor of
Columbus that you have proceeded down the river to commence the
work, and we think proper to write you, informing you of our appoint
ment, and that we are ready and desirous to co-operate in carrying out
our duties. Oblige by informing us what is expected of us to do in aid
of the work at present, if such information is to emanate from you, as
we suppose, hearing that you have full authority in the premises.
Very respectfully,
JOHN McNAB,
WM. H. THORNTON,
Commissioners.
[Inclosure No. 8.]
STEAMER MUNNERLYN,
Chattahoochee River, May 24, 1862.
Messrs. J. McNAB and W. H. THORNTON,
Commissioners , &c., Eufaula, Ala. :
GENTLEMEN : Your letter of May 21 reached me to-day. I am aware
of the correspondence between Governors Shorter and Brown, and it
was the intention of Governor Brown to send me to act with yourselves,
the commissioners of Governor Shorter. In the mean time, at the re
quest of General Pemberton, C. S. Army, commanding the department,
I was ordered by Governor Brown to report to General Pemberton for
instructions, and am now acting under his orders. 1 should be very
much gratified to have you visit this part of the river to see what is
about to be done. Such a visit would probably be more satisfactory to
yourselves and your people, and would afford me much pleasure. If the
quartermaster at Columbus can procure sufficient laborers at the place
it may be necessary to call on 3'ou for assistance.
I am, gentlemen, your obedient servant,
W. K. BOGGS,
Engineer, &c.
[Inclosure No. 9.]
STEAMER MUNNERLYN, May 29, 1862.
Messrs. J. McNAB and W. H. THORNTON, Eufaula, Ala. :
GENTLEMEN : From a letter I received to-day from Captain Dillard,
at Columbus, I infer that 1 shall have some difficulty in obtaining labor
ers. I want at least 200, and will be obliged to you for your assistance
in obtaining them. The Confederacy will pay, feed, and furnish the
medical attendance and medicines, also shelter for these hands. It will
be my special care to see that they are properly cared for so long as
they are under my control. 1 shall go to Columbus for the purpose of
getting laborers, rations, tents, &c., and hope to return Monday, June
2. Please advise Dr. Bozeman, at Columbus, by telegraph how many
35 R R— VOL XIV
54f> COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CiiAi-. XXVI.
hands you can have ready for me at Eufaula by tliat time and of any
others that I may get en route down the river.
I remain, gentlemen, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
W. E. BOGGS,
Engineer, &c.
[Inclosure No. 10.]
STEAMER MUNNERLYN,
Cliattahoochee River, May 29, 1862.
Dr. J. N. G. HUNTER,* Bainbridge, Ga. :
DOCTOR : 1 am now on my way to Columbus, Ga., for the purpose of
organizing a working party of about 200 hands. It will be necessary
for me to have a physician with the party, and I shall be pleased to
have your services. You will be provided for in the boat, and I feel
authorized to pay you the same as an assistant surgeon in the C. S.
Army. 1 should be glad to have you bring your own medicines, and
will pay for such as you may use. I will advise you by telegraph when
we leave Columbus, and will be pleased to hear from you or meet you
at Chattahoochee.
I remain, doctor, very respectfully,
W. E. BOGGS,
Engineer, &c.
[Inclosure No. 11.]
COLUMBUS, GA., June 4, 1862.
Dr. J. M. G. HUNTER,* Bainbridge, Ga. :
DOCTOR : Having entirely failed to organize the working party for
the obstructing and defense of the river, I have to inform you that I
shall not need your services.
Hoping that my letter of the 29th ultimo has put you in no consid
erable inconvenience, I remain, doctor, very respectfully,
W. E, BOGGS,
Engineer , &c.
[Inclosure No. 12.]
CHARLESTON, S. C., May 3, 1862.
Col. W. E. BOGGS, Columbus, Ga. :
There are no guns to be had, except those at Eicco's Bluff. At this
time Dr. Callahan cannot be spared from Savannah.
J. E. WADDY,
Assistant Adjutant- General.
[Inclosure No. 13. ]
HDQRS. DEPT. OF SOUTH CAROLINA AND GEORGIA,
Charleston, S. C., May 29, 1862.
Col. W. E. BOGGS, Columbus, Ga. :
I am directed by Major-General Pemberton to say to you that he
expects the labor to be furnished by the planters themselves free of
charge, and if the negroes should not have the tools you are authorized
to get them from the quartermaster. While the general does not posi
tively prohibit shelter, yet he thinks it better to bivouac, as information
*No means of ascertaining the correct initials.
CiiAi-. Xxvi.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. — CONFEDERATE. 547
has been received that no more tents can be furnished until winter.
The general will make requisition for the $15,000, and as soon as re
ceived will have it placed at your disposal. At present the Engineer
Department is without funds. The general prefers the position just
below Fort Gadsden for the obstructions. He cannot at this time fur
nish any other guns than those at Eicco's Bluff.
I am, &c.
J. E. WADDY,
Assistant Adjutant- General.
[Inclosure !N"o. 14.]
HDQRS. DEPT. OF SOUTH CAROLINA AND GEORGIA,
Charleston, 8. <?., June 1, 1862.
Col. W. E, BOGGS, Engineer Office:
COLONEL : I am directed by Major- General Pemberton to say that
he prefers Fort Gadsden or just below it as a site, with the guns from
Eicco's Bluff, to any other point on the river. He has no guns that he
can spare you. He would advise that the obstructions be placed near
the guns— say 600 or 700 yards from the guns.
I am, &c.,
J. E. WADDY,
Assistant Adjutant- General.
[Inclosure No. 15.]
HDQRS. DEPT. OF SOUTH CAROLINA AND GEORGIA,
Savannah, Ga., May 13, 1862.
His Excellency JOSEPH E. BROWN,
Governor of Georgia:
GOVERNOR : I have the honor to inclose a copy of a letter from the
Secretary of War to myself, received by the hands of Hon. Alf. Tver-
son on the llth instant.* During the very few days of my control over
the Department of Eastern and Middle Florida 1 examined the Chat
tahoochee Eiver as far up as the town of the same name, with a view
to the location of a battery between Apalachicola and Chattahoochee.
I saw7 no site which offered so many advantages as that of old Fort
Gadsden. This opinion I expressed to Brigadier-General Trapier, and
advised its occupation. The guns, however, had been landed at Eicco's
Bluff and works commenced, and for these reasons only I believe Gen
eral Trapier determined to establish his batteries there. Between
Chattahoochee and Columbus I know nothing by personal observation
of the desirable localities. To my mind, however, it is very plain that
the battery and obstructions should cover as much of the country as
possible from invasion by the river. Fort Gadsdeu has many requi
sites. The site is sufficiently elevated; there are good roads in the
rear; a long, straight road in front; the banks on either side are
swampy, and nearly or quite impracticable to an enemy; the width of
the river is about the average, and in no part is it too wide or too deep
to be easily and effectually obstructed. I prefer to all other methods
the plan of cribs as constructed and laid in the Savannah River. The
addition of trees in large numbers placed just below* the cribs and under
fire of the batteries should prevent the passage of boats of the smallest
draught. It may be that Fort Gadsdeu is unhealthy ; if so, it is cer-
* Of May 7, see p. 493.
548 COASTS or s. c., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA.
tainly a disadvantage, but should not be regarded an insuperable objec
tion. 1 am informed of a position some teu miles above Chattahoochee,
known as Hock Island. I have not seen the locality. Unless it has
very greatly superior advantages in other respects it is higher up than
I should like. Wherever the site selected may be it will become nec
essary to apply to the War Department to withdraw the guns from
Kicco's Bluff, unless Fort Gadsden be chosen, to any point below Chat
tahoochee lying within the Department of Eastern and Middle Florida,
over which I have no control. Should Fort Gadsden be selected. Gen
eral Finegan, commanding the department, is competent to make the
change. I leave the choice of the localities to Colonel Boggs, whom I
understand Your Excellency to place under my orders for the proposed
object, and I will thank you to instruct him in my name to proceed at
once to make the necessary reconnaissance, reporting to me the result.
For this end he is authorized to employ such transportation and assist
ance as he may deem necessary. If my other duties will permit I shall
endeavor to visit the river myself in a few days.
Very respectfully,
J. C. PEMBEETON,
Major- General, Commanding.
HDQRS. DEPT. OF SOUTH CAROLINA AND GEORGIA,
Charleston, S. C., June 5, 1862.
Lieut. Col. C. K. HUGER, Fort Pemberton, S. C. :
I wish the suggestion of placing a sunken battery for eight siege
howitzers in the woods below the fort carried out at once. So soon as
the battery is constructed the guns can be placed there. Captain
Ramsay will at once procure a sufficient number of sand bags to make
merlons as described by Mr. A. J. Gonzales, and so locate them.
Very respectfully,
J. C. PEMBEETON,
Major- General, Commanding.
CHARLESTON, S. C., June 5, 1862.
Brig. Gen. A. E. LAWTON, Savannah, Ga.:
You are ordered to command the troops to Eichmond, but will not
move until further ordered. You will have four regiments in readiness
to move to Eichmond, one taking the place of Colonel Harrison's, who
will not move to Eichmond.
J. C. PEMBERTON,
Major- General, Commanding.
HDQRS. DEPT. OF SOUTH CAROLINA AND GEORGIA,
Charleston, S. C., June 5, 1862.
GEORGE A. TRENHOLM,
Commissioner on Defense of City:
SIR: Major-General Pemberton desires that 100 hands be furnished
from the city for immediate work on the main harbor obstructions.
CHAP. XXVI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. CONFEDERATE. .049
The bauds he wishes turned over to Mr. John Cheves, iu charge of the
work.
I am, &c.,
J. R. WADDY,
Assistant Adjutant- General.
CHARLESTON, S. C., June 5, 1862.
General N. G. EVANS, Adams Run, S. C. :
Send me a cavalry company to report to General S. R. Gist, ou James
Island : one well armed if possible.
J. 0. PEMBERTON,
Major- General, Commanding.
RICHMOND, VA., June 5, 1862.
Major-General PEMBERTON, Charleston, 8. C.:
Did you receive my dispatch of last night?
JEFFERSON DAVIS.
CHARLESTON, S. C., June 5, 1862.
JEFF. DAVIS, President:
Received your dispatch of yesterday this morning. It may only be
a feint, to prevent my sending troops to Richmond. If he does not
increase his strength considerably I can resist him. No demonstra
tions at present against the harbor. He remains under cover of his
gunboats on Stono. Four regiments will be ready to move at your
call by night. Hope to be able to say, "Can send them."
J. C. PEMBERTON,
Major- General, Commanding.
RICHMOND, VA., June 5, 1862.
Major-General PEMBERTON, Charleston, S. C. :
Wheti your condition permits send on the troops. The urgency in
creases. Order was sent yesterday to forward you from Danville some
32-pounders. Anything we can furnish you shall have. The forts, if
well defended, will, I hope, protect the harbor.
JEFFERSON DAVIS.
CHARLESTON, S. C., June 5, 1862.
JEFFERSON DAVIS, President:
The urgency has not apparently increased here. I have ordered four
regiments to proceed at once to Richmond, and will hasten them as
much as possible,
J. C. PEMBERTON,
Major- General, Commanding,
550 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CiiAr. XXVI.
CHARLESTON, S. C., June 5, 1862.
Brigadier-General DRAYTON, Hardecville, S. C. :
Have your command read}7 to move in any direction should it be
required.
J. E. WADDY,
Assistant Adjutant- General.
CHARLESTON, S. C., June 5, 1862.
General A. E. LAWTON, Savannah, Ga. :
Delay the movement of the troops heretofore ordered to Eich-
mond until further orders, but hold them ready to move should they be
required.
J. C. PEMBEETON,
Major-General, Commanding.
CHARLESTON, S. C., June 5, 1862.
Brigadier-General GIST, Sccessionville, 8. C.:
If General Mercer has not moved he will remain for the present.
The movement to Eichmond is suspended until I hear further from you
as to strength of enemy.
J. C. PEMBEETOK
Major- General j Commanding.
CHARLESTON, S. C., June 5, 1862.
General W. D. SMITH, Secessionville, 8. C.:
I will order Colonel Harrison's regiment to take post on the lines
near your present headquarters. I have received a supply of ammu
nition for small-arms. The gunboat, with two 8-inch Dahlgren guns
and two Blakely guns, small, will go to Secessionville to-night. An
8-iiich columbiad is also ordered.
I will give $200 to any man tbat will succeed in burning the bridge
to Cole's Island.
You will cause the enemy's pickets to be annoyed as much as possi
ble to-night. I suggest this plan : Deploy some 50 or 100 men at ten
to fifteen paces intervals, to advance if possible within good range,
musket or rifle, as they may be, and if musket use ball and buck. At
a concerted signal tire into their groups of four, and fall back without
collecting in groups themselves; have a sufficient force lying down;
resist an advance at a point which your skirmishers shall be made
acquainted with and toward which they shall move.
J. C. PEMBEETON,
Major- General, Commanding.
SPECIAL ORDERS, ) HDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF S. C. AND GA.,
No. 69. f Charleston, 8. C., June 5, 1862.
*
IV. The two companies of Colonel Graham's regiment now detached
CHAP. XXVI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. — CONFEDERATE. 551
from the regiment will proceed at once to Charleston, S. C., and rejoin
their regiment.
V. Colonel Harrison, commanding regiment Georgia Volunteers, will
proceed at once to the vicinity of Brig. Gen. S. E. Gist's headquarters
and report to Brig. Gen. W. D. Smith, Provisional Army Confederate
States. Colonel Harrison can encamp with his regiment at any con
venient point near his place of destination.
VI. Brig. Gen. W. D. Smith, commanding on James Island, will cause
one or more companies to work on a battery to be constructed below Fort
Pemberton, relieving by others as he shall see fit. The greatest caution
and silence must be observed. No negroes will be allowed to approach
the works during its construction or afterward. The construction of
the work will be under the superintendence of Mr. E. White, assistant
engineer.
By order of Major-General Pemberton :
J. E. WADDY,
Assistant Adjutant- General.
HDQRS. MILITARY -DISTRICT OF SOUTH CAROLINA,
Adams* Run, S. C., June 5, 1862.
Maj. J. E. WADDY,
Assistant Adjutant- General, Charleston, S. C. :
MAJOR : In answer to the communication just received by the hands
of Lieutenant Morrison I have the honor to report that I have yet been
unable to ascertain the exact intentions or designs of the enemy.
There are about 1,500 on Seabrook Island, and are being re-enforced
from Fenwick's and Edisto Islands. There is also a small force at Le-
gareville. I have three regiments at the bridge at Church Flats, with
orders to move to the island at the shortest notice.
I have just directed Colonel Dunovant, First Eegiment Infantry, to
attack the enemy at Seabrook to-morrow morning. The attack will
not probably take place until the afternoon.
I am compelled to guard strongly both the Wadmalaw and Stono
Eivers, and I think the present force of this district should not be
diminished more than one regiment.
The cavalry are so indifferently armed that they are of little service
in a general engagement. I have now six companies of cavalry on
John's Island. Two light batteries are also at Church Flats, ready to
move to the island if necessary.
Should any troops be ordered to Virginia from this military district
I would respectfully ask permission to make the detail.
Very respectfully, vour obedient servant,
N. G. EVANS,
Brigadier- Genera I, Commanding.
CHARLESTON, S. C., June 6, 1862.
Brigadier- General EVANS, Adams Run, 8. C. :
Two 12-pounder guns have been ordered to Eantowles, 50 rounds of
ammunition each ; want them placed in battery there.
J. C. PEMBEETON,
Major- General, Commanding..
552 COASTS OF s. a, GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. xxvi.
CHARLESTON, S. 0., , 1862.
General DRAYTON, Hardeeville, S. C. :
You will not move until ordered. The cavalry companies will not
be moved. The two companies of the Eleventh Eegiment will not be
moved.
J. 0. PEMBEETON,
Major- General, Commanding.
GENERAL ORDERS, ) HDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF S. C. AND GA.,
No. 24. J Charleston, S. C., June 6, 1862.
Lieut. CoL T. M. Wagner, First Regiment South Carolina Artillery,
is hereby announced as chief of ordnance of the Department of South
Carolina and Georgia.
Bv order of Major- General Pemberton:
J. E. WADDY,
Assistant Adjutant- General.
GENERAL ORDERS, ) HDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF S. C. AND GA,
No. 25. j Charleston, S. C., June 6, 1862.
Captain Echols, Engineer Corps, Provisional Army of the Confeder
ate States, is hereby announced as chief engineer of the department.
He will without delay proceed to Charleston, S. C., and report at these
headquarters.
By order of Major General Pembertoii :
J. E. WADDY,
Assistant Adjutant- General.
SPECIAL ORDERS, > HDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF S. C. AND GA.,
No. 70. J Charleston, 8. C., June 6, 1862.
* * * *•.»-#'*
VI. Brig. Gen. W. D. Smith, Provisional Army of the Confederate
States, is hereby assigned to the command of the First Military Dis
trict of South Carolina, and will relieve Brig. Gen. H. W. Mercer, Pro
visional Army of the Confederate States, who, being relieved, will pro
ceed to Savannah and relieve Brigadier-General Lawton, now under
orders for Virginia.
* * * * * * #
By order of Major-General Pemberton :
J. E. WADDY,
Assistant Adjutant- General.
CHARLESTON, S. C., June 1, 1862 — 1 a. m.
JEFFERSON DAVIS:
A prisoner taken to-night says the enemy has landed a division and
three light batteries and a siege train on James Island and a division
CHAP. XXVI.J CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. CONFEDERATE. 553
on John's Island ; also cavalry and artillery. The generals are Stevens
and Wright. Says his division (Stevens') is 10.000 strong.
Very respectfully, &c..
J. C. PEMBERTON,
Major- General, Commanding.
HDQRS. DEPT. OF MIDDLE AND EAST FLORIDA,
Tallahassee, Fla., June 7, 1862.
General S. COOPER,
Adjutant and Inspector General, Richmond Va. :
GENERAL : I have the honor to report that I have failed to receive
any guns from Pensacola to place in battery on the Apalachicola River.
I am erecting a battery of seven guns at Alum Bluff, between Ricco's
Bluff and Chattahoochee — four 32-pounders, two 24-pounders, and one
18-pounder. The position is an elevated one, where a plunging tire can
be had on any vessel attempting to pass. Two guns are now ready for
service and the balance will be mounted in the course of a week or ten
days. The carriages for most of the guns had to be made here. I have
moved the two 32-pounder rifle cannon, mounted on siege carriages,
from Ricco's Bluff for service on the Saint John's River and put two
18-pounders in their place. I am also removing two 8-inch howitzers
from the battery near Saint Mark's for the same service and putting
two 32-pounders in their place. I propose making a casemate battery
near Saint Mark's, using heavy timber and railroad iron for the purpose.
I have the honor to be. general, your obedient servant,
JOS. FINEGAN,
Brigadier- General, Commanding.
CHARLESTON, S. C., June 7, 1862.
Brigadier- General EVANS, Adams Run, S. C. :
The enemy's gunboats went down last night to Griinball's, on John's
Island. I got your dispatch so late I could not comply with your wishes.
Let me know what you want now.
J. C. PEMBERTON,
Major- General, Commanding.
HDQRS. DEPT. OF SOUTH CAROLINA AND GEORGIA,
June 7, 1862.
Brigadier-General SMITH :
GENERAL : The major-general commanding directs that you have the
bomb-proof at Secessiouville completed at once by the soldiers. This
work is important and its speedy completion necessary. Also that you
have working parties organized ready to erect batteries between James
Island Creek and Newton's Cut.
J. C. TAYLOR,
Aide de-Camp.
554 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVL"
HDQRS. DEFT. OF SOUTH CAROLINA AND GEORGIA,
Charleston, S. C., June 7, 1862.
Brigadier-General SMITH,
Commanding First Military District :
GENERAL : You will direct Capt. W. W. McCreery, ordnance officer,
to make an immediate personal inspection and report to me as early
to-inorrow as possible —
1st. The exact number of guns on the line of intrenchments from
Secessionville to the Cut (Wappoo), giving the correct caliber of each,
with a diagram showing the position on the lines. This lie can take
well enough from the sketch of the intrenchments as laid down on
General Gist's map.
2d. How many rounds there are for each caliber of shot, canister,
and grape, also how many rounds of cartridges for each caliber.
3d. How many friction-tubes, how many port-tires, port-fire clippers,
how much slow match, how many port-fire stocks.
4th. How many handspikes tor siege guns are needed, how many
barbette guns, how many priming-wires, gunner's gimlets, and thumb-
stalls, haversacks, and tube-pouches are needed, also vent aprons.
5th. State in the calibers given whether rifled or smooth-bore.
6th. I trust that Captain McCreery will use the utmost accuracy
and diligence in ascertaining and giving this information. It is of the
greatest importance that I should be correctly informed on all these
points, that 1 may take measures to keep up supplies. It is of imme
diate and pressing necessity that I should know the caliber and number
of guns and the amount of ammunition now on the lines, and I desire
you to have at least 20 rounds of cartridges and projectiles with
every gun in position. It is also extremely important that proper ar
rangements be made on the continuous line for the disposition of field
artillery, upon which we shall be forced to depend in a great degree.
I desire to place at least 50 rounds of ammunition with everj^ siege
and barbette gun. If you are deficient in anything let me know and I
will endeavor to have it supplied.
Very respectfully,
J. C. PEMBEKTOtf,
Major- General, Commanding.
CHARLESTON, S. C., June 8, 1862.
W. J. MAGRATH,
President Charleston and Savannah Railroad:
SIR: The worthless condition of nearly all the steamboats in the
employ of the Government renders it necessary that I call upon you
for the use of the ferry-boats of the railroad company. I regret this
necessity extremely, but I have no other resource. The enemy in large
force is preparing to attack Charleston— probably through James and
John's Islands. I request you to have several trains ready to move at
a moment's notice for or with troops. It is desirable that the regular
passenger train should not move to-day, as it is highly probable the
cars may be needed for transportation of men or stores.
J. C. PEMBEBTOtf,
Major- General, Commanding.
CHAP. XXVI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. CONFEDERATE. 553
CHARLESTON, S. C., June 8, 18G2 — 1 a. in.
General MERCER, Savannah, Ga. :
Have all of your command ready to move at the shortest notice.
Send me at once the best field battery you have. I want some rifled
pieces and 12-pounder howitzers. Send all their ammunition.
J. G. PEMBEETOX,
Major- General, Commanding.
CHARLESTON, S. C., June 8, 1862 — 1 a. m.
Captain CHILDS:
Send to General Smith (receipts from Captain McCreery) 70,000 per
cussion caps by bearer. The enemy is reported by a prisoner 10,000
strong on James Island, three light batteries and a siege train, and as
much on John's Island. Have ready also 300 rounds of ammunition
for 12 pounders, ammunition for 18-pouuders, and 200 for 24-pounders ;
also rifled ammunition for 24-pounders — say 200 rounds port-fires and
friction-tubes. I wish you to have everything I need ready at a mo
ment's notice.
J. C. PEMBEETOK,
[Major- General^ Commanding.]
CHARLESTON, S. C., June 8, 1862.
Brig. Gen. N. G. EVANS, Adams Run:
The prisoner taken yesterday states that the enemy are landing in
large force on John's Island and on this side also.
J. C. PEMBEETON,
Major- Genera I, Commanding.
CHARLESTON, S. C., June 8, 1862.
Brig. Gen. W. D. SMITH:
GENERAL : I wish the large woods west of Secessionville strongly
occupied with troops, and field artillery on the road or in easy commu
nication with the road. It is of the first importance to hold this wood.
You will give strict orders to prohibit the roads being blocked up with
wagons, artillery, or any other obstruction to the movement of troops.
Should the enemy attempt this woods with artillery you will retain it
at any cost and endeavor to capture his artillery. I shall endeavor to
see you this morning.
J. C. PEMBEETOX,
Major- Genera I, Commanding.
HDQRS. DEPT. or SOUTH CAROLINA AND GEORGIA,
Charleston, S. C., June 8, 1862.
Col. JOHNSON HAGOOD, Provost- Marshal :
COLONEL: Your communication of this day's date* and inclosing
report of Capt. G. B. Lartigue, assistant provost-marshal, in reference
to the guards of the city, has been received, and in reply I am directed
* Not found.
556 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CIIAV. XXVL
by the major-general commanding to say he desires you should manage
to the best of your ability with your present force, as he is unable to
spare a greater force.
R. W. MEMMINGER,
Assistant Adjutant- General.
CHARLESTON, S. C., June 8, 1862.
General MERCER, Savannah, Ga.:
You will send to this point a strong, well-armed regiment — one of
your best; send Major Anderson.
J. C. PEMBERTON,
Major- General, Commanding.
GENERAL ORDERS, ) HDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF S. C. AND GA.,
No. 26. f Charleston, 8. C., June 8, 1862.
Lieut. Col. A. J. Gonzales, artillery. Provisional Army of the Con
federate States, is announced chief of artillery, Department of South
Carolina and Georgia. He will forthwith proceed to this point and
report for further instructions.
By order of Major-General Peinberton:
J. R. WADDY,
Assistant Adjutant- General.
CHARLESTON, S. C., June 9, 1862.
General S. R. GIST, SecessionviUe, S. C. :
Don't allow your command, and especially the batteries, to waste am
munition. They must not fire merely because they are fired at. The
large guns must not waste their ammunition.
J. C. PEMBERTON,
Major- General, Commanding.
CHARLESTON, S. C., June 9, 1862.
General S. R. GIST:
General Evans will probably attack the enemy to-night near Legare-
ville. If you hear his guns, make a demonstration toward GrimbalPs
or Legar6's, or both, to prevent the enemy from re-enforcing.
J. C. PEMBERTON,
Major- Genera I, Commanding.
CHARLESTON, S. C., June 10, 1862.
General H. W. MERCER, Savannah, Ga.:
Brigadier-General Dray ton will support Savannah upon your call.
I send Colonel Harrison's regiment this morning and will* probably
send another to-night.
J. C. PEMBERTON,
Major- General^ Commanding.
CHAP. XXVI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. CONFEDERATE. 557
CHARLESTON, S. C., June 10, 1862.
MAYOR OF SAVANNAH, GA. :
Charleston is threatened; have therefore di awn troops from Savan
nah. If Savannah is threatened, shall draw troops from Charleston.
With means at my disposal shall defend both to the best of my ability.
Expect to send two regiments back tomorrow.
J. C. PEMBEBTON,
Major- General, Commanding.
HDQRS. DEPT. OF SOUTH CAROLINA AND GEORGIA,
Charleston, 8. C.* June 11, 1802.
Brigadier-General MERCER :
GENERAL: I am instructed by Major-General Pemberton to say to
you that some six weeks ago he ordered Cap'ain Echols to construct a
work in rear of Fort Jackson, a covered way, to strengthen the rear of
the fort. The major-general wishes you to call on the mayor and coun
cil for sufficient negro labor to complete the work. One hundred hands
would finish the work in three weeks. You will also call the attention
of the Navy officers to the importance of completing the naval battery.
Should the negroes not be furnished the work cannot go on. The naval
battery should be constructed under the control of the Navy officer.
J. B. WADDY,
Assistant Adjutant- General.
HDQRS. DEPT. OF SOUTH CAROLINA AND GEORGIA,
Charleston, S. C., June 11, 1862.
Brigadier-General MERCER,
Commanding Military District of Georgia :
GENERAL : In answer to your communication of June 9 I am directed
by Major-General Pemberton to inform you that he considers the posi
tion of Fort Boggs one of so much importance that he is unwilling to
take the 10-inch columbiad now in position at that work to place it on
the ladies' gunboat until the strength of the gunboat has been thor
oughly tested with a 10-inch columbiad or an S inch rifled gun at a dis
tance of about 300 yards. After the strength of the gunboat has been
thus ascertained and found capable of resisting sucli heavy metal the
general will then consider your request at once.
As regards the number and quality of troops you now have at Sa
vannah, the general is well aware of the fact that the force is not suf
ficiently large for the defense of the city. You are aware of the fact
that the force in and around Charleston is inadequate to the defense of
Charleston and the lines of James Island. Charleston is now threatened,
and the general has been forced to withdraw troops from Savannah
while the latter city is not threatened. Should Savannah be threatened,
he should under similar circumstances withdraw troops from Charleston
for the defense of Savannah.
Colonel Harrison's regiment Georgia Volunteers has been ordered to
and will probably reach Savannah to day before reading your letter.
Captain Bead's battery has been ordered to leave for Savannah to-mor
row. General Drayton, at Hardeeville, has been ordered to hold his
entire command in readiness to move to your support, in case Savannah
558 COASTS OF S C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP.
should be threatened, upon your summons without further reference to
these headquarters. The general will also endeavor to strengthen you
from other points, You should also call on the Governor for all arms
in the State, so as to enable you to thoroughly arm what men you now
have. You should also call on the citizens to arm themselves for the
defense of the city.
On June 0 General A. E. Lawton telegraphed as follows :
If the troops now in Charleston sent from here under General Smith return to this
?l:i< •(>, when I have taken four regiments to Richmond, there will remain here about
1,000, so that you will now have 11,000 men less the number brought from Savannah
by General Smith, which docs not exceed 1, GOO or 1,700, which should leave you about
9,^300 or 9,400 men.
Should you be threatened in the least you will call on General Dray-
ton for the Eleventh Regiment South Carolina Volunteers at once. You
are also authorized to call on all troops in Georgia should their services
be required. Savannah is therefore, in the opinion of the general, as
well defended as Charleston. To properly defend either city requires
a force of at least 20,000 men at each city, but you are well aware that
the general has no such force at his disposal.
J. E. WADDY,
Assistant Adjutant- General*
CHARLESTON, S. C., June 11, 1862V
Brigadier-General EVANS, Adams Run, 8. C. :
Send me as many infantry troops as you can spare for temporary
service. How many can you spare ? Answer.
J. C. PEMBEETON,
Major-General, Commanding.
CHARLESTON, S. C., June 11, 1862.
GEORGE W. EANDOLPH,
Secretary of War :
^ My force is very inadequate to the defense of both Charleston and
Savannah. Exclusive of garrisons of forts, at this time I have not vo-
exceed 10,000 effectives to defend Charleston, including Evans' com
mand, and to defend Savannah not more than 5,000 effectives, includ
ing Drayton's; some of these are unarmed; many badly armed. Cam
I not get some troops from North Carolina I
J. C. PEMBEETON,
Major- General, Commanding.
EICHMOND, VA., June 11, 1862.
Major-General PEMBERTON :
Movements of an important and decisive character are practicable if
we can get re-enforcements from the South. Send them if you possibly
can without too much risk to Charleston.
G. W. EANDOLPH,
Secretary of War.
CHAP. XXVI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. CONFEDERATE. 559
CHARLESTON, S. C., June 11, 1862.
Hon. GEORGE W. RANDOLPH,
Secretary of War :
I not only cannot spare any more troops from this department, butf
there is danger here unless I am re-enforced.
J. C. PEMBEETON,
Major- General, Commanding.
CHARLESTON, S. C., June 11, 1862.
Brig. Gen. W. D. SMITH, James Island, S. C. :
The enemy are reported to be two regiments and ten pieces of artil
lery strong in nearly the same position that they occupied yesterday.
The section of Chatham Artillery has been ordered back which had not
been ordered to move.
J. C. PEMBERTON,
Major- General, Commanding.
HDQRS. DEPT. OF SOUTH CAROLINA AND GEORGIA,
Charleston, S. C., June 11, 1862.
Brigadier- General SMITH :
GENERAL : I have every reason to believe the enemy is erecting a
battery in about the position where you found him yesterday. As we
have not done it it is reasonable to suppose he will, from the impor
tance of the position. I am informed this evening that he has two regi
ments and ten pieces of field artillery there. Can you not take his
batteries, or at least derange his plans "? You must keep up a constant
skirmishing with him. It will accustom the men to fire, which is essen
tial, if it effects nothing else. Is it possible to burn the woods I have
been so anxious to hold? You can get resin and turpentine and the
wind is favorable. Give me your own and General Gist's views. My
own are decided as to the importance of driving him from that woods
in some way, or at least of exposing him to our artillery.
Your pickets must be very much on the alert — the officer of the day
constantly moving. Have you field officers of the day? I shall get
a little more powder to-night, but if it is wasted by firing at gunboats
from Secessionville it might as well not be here. I am informed Colonel
Lamar has been returning their fire again. You must put a stop to this.
J. C. PEMBERTON,
Major - General, Com manding.
CHARLESTON, S. C., June 11, 1862.
Brig. Gen. N. G. EVANS, Adams Run, 8. C. :
Have you received my telegram ? Send at least one good regiment;
more if you can. It is evident that the enemy is not in great force
before you.
J. C. PEMBERTON,
Major- Genera I, Com m and ing.
560 COASTS OP S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP.
CHARLESTON, S. C., June 11, 18G2.
General II. E. LEE :
DEAR SIR : It is with extreme reluctance that I address you this
letter, but I think it my duty to say what 1 am about to communicate.
General Pemberton does not possess the confidence of his officers, his
troops, or the people of Charleston. Whether justly or unjustly, rely
upon it the fact is so. I speak with positive certainty. It is useless
to inquire into all the reasons for this unfortunate condition of senti
ment in both soldiers and people. Such is the deplorable fact.
Yesterday I found some of our best and most iutluential citizens were
actually about to get up a petition asking- for his removal. I remon
strated with them against such a proceeding, urging that the Govern
ment could not condemn (for such would be the effect) an officer of high
rank and approved reputation^ on the score of his extreme unpopular
ity ; but I have very deliberately come to the conclusion that it would
be far better to remove General Pembertoii honorably and without any
intimation of dissatisfaction from this department to some other sphere
of duty. 1 have been urged by many of my most esteemed and promi
nent fellow-citizens to bring this grave matter to your notice in an unoffi
cial and confidential manner. I believe that almost anyone whom you
could select would be better for us than General Pemberton ; not that
I pretend to judge of his qualifications, but were these of the very
highest character (which I fear they are not) still his usefulness would
be utterly destroyed by the entire want of confidence felt in him, I re
peat, by officers, men, and people. I believe General Smith, now second
in command, would answer very well. I do not know him personally,
but he has made quite a favorable impression upon the troops. But I
do not propose to make any further suggestions than that General Pem-
bertou should be honorably relieved from the command of this depart
ment without the slightest information which could wound his sensitive
ness, and that some other, any other, officer should at once be assigned
here. Nothing but a solemn sense of duty has compelled me to write
this painful letter. And now, my dear general, with perfect confidence
in your calm judgment I submit the whole matter to your early and
earnest consideration.
Very respectfully, yours,
WM. PORCHER MILES.
[Indorsement No. 1.]
JUNE 25, 1862.
Respectfully referred to His Excellency the President. I hardly see
how the removal of Pemberton can be avoided. Magruder is the best
person that is available to relieve him. Pembertou might go to Bragg
or to relieve Leadbetter.
R. E. LEE,
General.
[Indorsement No. 2.]
Secretary of War for attention.
J. D.
RICHMOND, VA., June 12, 1862.
Gov. FRANCIS W. PICKENS, Columbia, 8. C. :
Beauregard has stated that, his own health not being strong, he can-
CHAP. XXVI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. CONFEDERATE. 561
not spare Bragg, who lias much of the administrative duty of the army
to perform. Perhaps Beauregard would be glad, under the circumstances,
to take charge of the Department of South Carolina and Georgia. If
you will be satisfied with that arrangement it might be well for you to
propose it to him.
JEFFEKSO^ DAVIS
HDQRS. DEPT. OF SOUTH CAROLINA AND GEORGIA,
Charleston, S. C., June 12, 1862.
Maj. H. LEE, Quartermaster, &c. :
MAJOR : The major-general directs me to ascertain from you whether
an engine can be sent to-day to Adams Run to bring General Evans
to this place; if so, at what time1? Two regiments are to be trans
ported from Adams Run to Charleston to-day and battery of artillery
is also to go on the road from here to Savannah, but if possible it is
desirable that an engine be sent for General Evans as soon as practi
cable. *
J. C. TAYLOR,
Aide-de-Camp.
HDQRS. DEPT. OF SOUTH CAROLINA AND GEORGIA,
Charleston, S. C., June 12, 1862.
Lieut. Col. T. M. WAGNER:
COLONEL : There are now at Saint Andrew's Depot two 42-pouuder
carronades and two 24-pounder navy guns, with 100 rounds of ammuni
tion per gun. The major-general commanding wishes them sent down
on James Island, to be placed in position on the lines at such points as
iuay4>e designated by Lieut. Col. A. J. Gonzales.
J. E. WADDY,
Assistant Adjutant- General.
P. S. — Lieutenant Wilkinson will attend to the matter referred to.
HDQRS. DEPT. OF SOUTH CAROLINA AND GEORGIA,
Charleston, 8. C., June 12, 1862.
Lieut. Col. A. J. GONZALES,
Chief of Artillery Department :
COLONEL : There are two 42-pounder carronades and two 24 pounder
navy guns now at Saint Andrew's Depot, with 100 rounds of ammunition
per gun. The major-general commanding wishes you to designate the
position for them to be placed on the lines. The general wishes these
guns to be placed in the most advantageous position you can possibly
select.
J. E. WADDY,
Assistant Adjutant- General.
WAR DEPARTMENT,
Richmond, June 12, 1862.
Maj. Gen. J. C. PEMBERTON,
Comdg. Dept. of Georgia and South Carolina, Charleston, S. C. :
GENERAL : Your attention is respectfully called to the annexed copy
36 R R— VOL xiv
562 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVL
of a letter from Col. G. W. Bains to Lieut. Col. J. Gorgas and referred
by him to me, and you are requested to take such action in the matter
as you may deem advisable.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
G. W. EANDOLPH,
Secretary of War.
[Inclosure.]
AUGUSTA ARSENAL, June 7, 1862.
Col. J. GORGAS, Chief of Ordnance :
COLONEL: I herewith inclose proceedings* of a public meeting held
in this city relative to taking measures for its defense, and in which
resolutions were adopted requesting the Secretary of War, through my
self, to assist in affording aid to the defense of this place and the Gov
ernment works.
As the matter has already been brought to the notice of the Secretary
of War by yourself perhaps these resolutions are unnecessary, but as
they request me to do so I submit them to the Secretary through your
bureau.
Would it be practicable to obtain 100 Enfield rifles to assist in arming
two companies of sharpshooters now forming ? I dislike to trouble you
in any manner that I can avoid, knowing so well the little time you have
to spare on matters outside of your department, but as we are much
interested in preserving the public works here, which may become our
rallying point, I think we cannot exert ourselves too much for their
preservation. The want of a military commander at this point would
be much felt in an emergency, and I would be glad if the Secretary's
attention could again be brought to the subject, my time beiyg so
much occupied in my legitimate ordnance duties that I can ill afford
to take upon myself the additional duties of attending to the military
defense. General Gardner is living here, and, although a cripple, I
think could render efficient service in the premises, and, if I might be
allowed to suggest a commandant, 1 would name him as an officer who
would be glad to serve in such capacity, and it would be agreeable to
his townsmen. I of course will assist the commandant in all ways it
may be in my power without requiring orders so to do. The general
and myself are old friends, and I presume there would be entire unity
of purpose between us.
I have to state in relation to siege-gun carriages that those which
were at this arsenal were sent to Corinth, excepting one 18-pounder
carriage, for the Shell Bluff defense.
Eespectfully,
GEO. W. KAINS,
Lieutenant- Colonel of Artillery and Ordnance, Commanding.
HDQRS. SOUTH CAROLINA EEGIMENT ARTILLERY,
Fort Sumter, June 12, 1862.
Maj. J. E. WADDY, Assistant Adjutant- General :
MAJOR : I have the honor to inclose letters addressed to me by sev
eral captains of this regiment in relation to reports of the disaffection
* Not found.
CHAP. XXVI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. CONFEDERATE. 563
iii the garrison of Fort Sumter. The opinions of the company officers
are the only guides I have in this matter. They are aware of the
rumors and of the seditious language held by one or two of the men,
but still have confidence in the loyalty, courage, and fidelity of their
commands. If it should be deemed necessary to make any change in
the garrison of Fort Sumter I respectfully request that my regiment
be sent into the field, with as many companies serving together as is
consistent with the exigencies of the day. While all the officers of this
garrison would feel sensibly the mortification of being removed from a
post of so much importance at such a critical time, we would prefer to
be placed immediately in front of the enemy, where an opportunity
would be afforded to restore that confidence in our rank and file which
has been shaken by rumors amongst an anxious and excited commu
nity.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
W. E. CALHOUN,
Colonel, Commanding South Carolina Artillery.
[Inclosnre No. 1.]
FORT SUMTER, May 23, 1862.
Lieut. C. W. PARKER,
Adjutant First Regiment Artillery :
SIR : In reply to the question addressed to me this morning by
Colonel Oalhoun, in reference to my opinion of the loyalty of Company
B, First Kegiment Artillery, to the cause in which they are enlisted, I
have the honor to say that since I have been in command of that com
pany I have never had any grounds for suspecting the loyalty of their
motives, and I feel at the present time an entire confidence in the sin
cerity of their allegiance to the flag of the Confederate States.
I have the honor to remain, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
DAVID G. FLEMING,
Captain First Regiment South Carolina Artillery.
[Inclosure No. 2.]
FORT SUMTER, May 22, 1862.
Col. W. E. CALHOUN, Commanding Fort Sumter :
COLONEL : In compliance with your request I have the honor to state
that I have the utmost confidence in the loyalty of every man now
present in my company, and it is my sincere belief that as far as patri
otism is concerned they will compare favorably with any company in
the service of the Confederate States.
I remain, very respectfully,
F. H. HAELESTON,
Captain Company D, Regiment South Carolina Artillery.
[Inclosure No. 3.]
FORT SUMTER, May 25, 1862.
Col. W. E. CALHOUN:
COLONEL : I have the honor to reply to your question, with regard
to the loyalty and fidelity of Company F, that I have never seen the
5f)4 COASTS OF S. C., GA , AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVI.
least cause to doubt either, and that I do not for one moment question
their willingness to light for the cause in which they are enlisted.
I have the honor, colonel, to be, respectfully, your obedient servant,
J. GADSDEN KING,
Capt. First Regt. Arty. S. C., P. F. C. S., Comdg. Company F.
[Inclosure No. 4.]
FORT SUMTER, May 22, 1862.
Col. W. E. CALHOUN, Comdg. Eegt. S. C. Arty., Prov. Forces C. 8. :
COLONEL : In reply to your inquiry of this morning I would beg
leave to state that I place the most implicit reliance upon my company.
I feel entire confidence in their loyalty and patriotism.
I remain, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
Antt. H. PERONNEAU,
Captain, Comdg. Company 6r, Eegt. South Carolina Artillery.
[Inclosure No. 5.]
FORT SUMTER, May 31, 1862.
Col. W. E. CALHOUN, Fort Sumter :
COLONEL : I have been much annoyed in the last few days by the
expression of the feeling of the people of Charleston against this regi
ment. They seem to have lost all confidence in us, and I have no doubt
that it would be as agreeable to them as it would be certainly to me,
and I think to many of the officers of the regiment, that we should be
removed to some other field of action. I would therefore respectfully
request that you take such measures as in your judgment may relieve
us from the unpleasant position we now occupy, and at the same time
place us in some other position, where we may be enabled to assume
our full share of responsibility.
I remain, with great respect, your obedient servant,
WM. H. PEEONNEAU.
[Inclosure No. C.]
FORT SUMTER, May 31, 1862.
Col. W. E. CALHOUN, Commanding Fort Sumler :
COLONEL : As we in this fort are placed in such an unpleasant and
unfair position by the late actions of the citizens of Charleston as re
gards the loyalty of our men, I would most earnestly request you, if
in your opinion you think it advisable, to apply for a transfer either to
Virginia or the West.
The above is simply my application as an individual, but as my feel
ings have been greatly hurt at the imputations cast upon us, I earnestly
desire to be removed. I think we are competent to take the field as
infantry.
I remain, colonel, very respectfully,
F. H. HAELESTOJST,
Captain Company D, Regiment Artillery.
[Inclosure No. 7.]
FORT SUMTER, May 30, 1862.
Col. W. Ef. CALHOUN, Comdg. First Regt. South Carolina Arty. :
COLONEL : As there exists in Charleston such very strong sentiment
CHAP. XXVI.] CORRESPONDENCE, Ef C.— CONFEDERATE. 565
against the troops of this garrison as regards their loyalty, and as this
feeling has spread over various parts of the State, I must respectfully
request, if it be compatible with the defense of this post and harbor,
that we be transferred to some place where some confidence can be
placed in us, and where we will have an early opportunity of proving
to the citizens of Charleston the wrong they have done us. If not as
artillery, the men are sufficiently well drilled as infantry to take the
field as such immediately.
I earnestly request that this feeling may be brought to the notice of
the brigadier- general commanding for his consideration. It is evident
in what an unpleasant and, as regards us, unfair position we are placed
by the strong distrust evinced toward us by the citizens of Charleston.
I am confident, sir, that if the sentiment of the officers of this garrison
were known they would coincide with mine entirely.
I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
JOSEPH A. YATES,
Captain Artillery, C. 8. Army.
HDQRS. DEPT. OF SOUTH CAROLINA AND GEORGIA,
Charleston, S. C., June 14, 1862.
Lieut. Col. A. J. GONZALES, Chief of Artillery, &c.:
COLONEL : The major-general commanding directs me to inform you
that he has instructed Capt. W. H. Echols to lay out a battery near
Newton's Cut, to consist of a 42-pounder rifled gun, barbette, four siege
8-inch howitzers, and two siege 24-pounder rifled guns, the position to
be designated by Colonel Wagner. The major-general directs that you
render all assistance in your power to Captain Echols, that the work
may be completed at the earliest possible moment.
J. C. TAYLOE,
Aide-de- Camp.
HDQRS. DEPT. OF SOUTH CAROLINA AND GEORGIA,
Charleston, 8. C., June 14, 1802.
Colonel COLQUITT:
COLONEL : It is a matter of the greatest importance that the enemy's
gunboats be prevented from lying off Newton's Cut and thus cutting
us off from using the bridge and the road. I design establishing a bat
tery at the lower extremity of the wood on the western side of the Cut.
The battery will consist of a banded and rifled 42-pounder, four 8-inch
siege howitzers, and two 24-pounder rifled guns. With this battery we
ought to drive the gunboats as low down as GrimbalPs; but to erect
it it will be necessary to employ the soldiers of your and Colonel De
Saussure's regiments. Negroes could not be trusted to work so near
the enemy. The most perfect silence should be maintained and the
greatest energy and determination upon the part of the men to carry
the work through with the greatest rapidity. Commanding officers
should be present with the working parties. You will furnish, in con
junction with Colonel De Saussure, as many men as the engineer officer
in charge of the work may find it necessary to call for, and I ask of
Colonel De Saussure and yourself to aid and advance it to the utmost
of your ability.
J. C. PEMBEETON,
[Major- General, Commanding.]
566 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVI.
CHARLESTON, S. 0., June 14, 1862.
Brigadier-General LAWTON:
Send to Captain Gibbon, ordnance officer here, 100,000 rounds of
ammunition for smooth-bore muskets, caliber .69 principally, and what
you can spare for Enfield rifles. Send it quickly as possible.
J. C. PEMBERTON,
Major- General, Commanding.
COLUMBIA, S. C., June 14, 1862.
President DAVIS:
The following adopted by the Governor and Council :
Resolved, That in the opinion of the Governor and Council the ntter want at this
late date of proper and adequate arrangements for the successful defense of Charles
ton demands that another appeal should be made to the Confederate authorities for
some change in the conduct of affairs.
Resolved, That the chief of the military department he requested to represent, in the
name of the Governor and Council of South Carolina, to the President of the Confed
erate States, the Secretary of War, and General Lee the nature and extent of the
difficulties which exist, and to urge upon the Confederate authorities the necessity of
immediate and efficient action.
I write you a letter by mail, to which I beg your attention.
JAS. CHESNUT, JR.,
Chief of Military Department, South Carolina.
TALLAHASSEE, FLA., June 15, 1862.
General S. COOPER, Richmond, Va. :
Five Federal vessels reported inside the Kiver Saint Mark's and one
vessel coming over the bar. Have ordered the Seventh Eegiment Flor
ida Volunteers back to this place until I can ascertain the design of the
enemy. Have also ordered Dunham's artillery and the First Special
Battalion from the river. Will keep you advised.
JOS. FINEGAN,
Brigadier-General, Commanding.
SPECIAL ORDERS, ) HDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF S. C. AND GA.,
No. 79. f Charleston, S. C., June 15, 1862.
* * * * * * *
Brig. Gen. N. G. Evans, Provisional Army of Confederate States,
is hereby assigned to duty in First Division First Military District of
Department South Carolina and Georgia. He will exercise the com
mand thereof until further orders.
* * * * * * #
By order of Major General Pemberton :
J. E. WADDY,
Assistant Adjutant- General.
CHAP. XXVI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. — CONFEDERATE. 567
COLUMBIA, S. C., June 15, 1862.
President DAVIS:
I telegraphed you Beauregard's answer. He could not leave his army.
I have heard not a word since, and every day is important at Charles
ton. I fear great confusion, and all may be lost. I mentioned Hardee
and Van Dorn because I supposed you could spare no one from Vir
ginia; but Huger, Magruder, or Longstreet would be of great service
if immediately ordered.
F. W. PICKETS.
[Indorsement.]
General LEE :
The officer first named of your army from which one can be most im
mediately sent is General Huger. Can you spare him 1 If so, I would
be glad to comply with the request.
J. D.
HDQRS. DEPT. OF SOUTH CAROLINA AND GEORGIA,
Charleston, S. (7., June 15, 1862.
Gov. FRANCIS W. PICKENS, Columbia, S. C. :
GOVERNOR : It is proposed that you should be fully acquainted with
the fact that the troops at my disposal for the defense of Charleston
are inadequate for that purpose, should the enemy attack in large force
either now or later in the season. In order that you may take measures
to increase this force as far as practicable it is necessary that Sulli
van's Island and Morris Island be occupied by at least one regiment of
infantry. The approaches by John's Island are as important as that
by James Island. On this last-named island I have not at this moment
to exceed 6,500 effective men, and yet the general health is as good as
it was previous to the occupation of the island in force. One regiment
and one battery of these 6,500 troops have been drawn from Savannah,
one regiment from Hardeeville, and a regiment and battery from Gen
eral Evans' district. One regiment is in reserve in the city, one on
Sullivan's and one on Morris Island.
Including General Evans' district, therefore, and with the troops from.
Savannah and Hardeeville now here and those on Sullivan's and Mor
ris Islands, there is not to exceed 10,000 effectives, if they even reach
that number. Very few regiments have 600 men for duty ; many far
less.
In this state of the case I respectfully call upon you to furnish such
aid in men and arms as may be within your power.
J. C. PEMBEETON,
Major -General, Commanding.
CHARLESTON, S. C., June 15, 1862.
Hon. GEORGE W. EANDOLPH,
Secretary of War:
I am very scarce of ammunition : want more powder.
J. C. PEMBEETON,
Major- General, Commanding.
568 COASTS OF S. C ., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVl
CHARLESTON, S. C., June 18, 1862.
Hon. GEORGE W. KANDOLPH, Secretary of War :
I am very much in want of good artillerists. Is it possible to send
the officers and men of the Navy 'that have been engaged on the Mis
sissippi since the naval vessels have been rendered useless ?
J. 0. PEMBERTON,
Major- General, Commanding.
[Indorsement No. 1.]
Respectfully referred to the honorable Secretary of the Navy, with
the request that he will extend such assistance to General Pemberton
as he can.
G. W. RANDOLPH,
Secretary of War.
[Indorsement "No. 2.]
The Navy greatly needs at this time 500 such men as General Pem
berton wants, and we have not a man to spare.
S. R. MALLORY,
Secretary of the Navy.
SPECIAL ORDERS, ) HDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF S. C. AND GA.,
No. 82. f Charleston, S. C., June 18, 1862.
#######
VII. Under the direction of the major-general commanding, Brig.
Gen. W. D. Smith is assigned to the command of the troops (artillery,
cavalry, and infantry) now serving on James Island. Brig. Gen. S. R.
Gist is assigned to the command of the troops east of James Island
Creek. Col. Johnson Hagood is relieved from duty with his regiment
(First South Carolina Volunteers) and is assigned to the command of the
troops west of James Island Creek. The engineer department will be
Tinder the exclusive control of the major-general commanding, unless
when specially assigned for temporary service during the presence of
the enemy on the island. Should any emergency arise requiring im
mediate action the senior officer present will exercise direct command,
reporting at once by telegraph or courier to the major-general com
manding.
By order of Major-General Pemberton :
J. R. WADDY,
Assistant Adjutant- General.
RICHMOND, VA., June 19, 1862.
Gov. FRANCIS W. PICKENS, Columbia, S. C. :
On receipt of your dispatch [of 15th instant] communicating reply
of General Beauregard, General Cooper was directed to proceed to
Charleston, to make a thorough examination of the troops and the de
fenses and to confer fully with General Pembertou. Your subsequent
dispatch, expressing a wish for the presence of either Generals Huger,
Magruder, or Lougstreet, has been received. Would it not be well for
you to see General Cooper and afterwards communicate to me your
views in relation to this last request I
JEFFERSON DAVIS.
CitAi-. XXTt.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.— CONFEDERATE. 569
HEADQUARTERS, June 19, 1862.
Mr. PRESIDENT :
I have just received the dispatch from Governor Pickens. I think
General Huger can be spared. The Secretary of War can have his
orders issued.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
R. E. LTCE,
General.
[Indorsement. ]
SECRETARY OF WAR:
I have telegraphed to Governor Pickens, and will wait for further
communication as to the within or for report from General Cooper.
J. D.
HEADQUARTERS SECOND MILITARY DISTRICT,
Adams Run, S. C., June 21, 1862.
Maj. J. R. WADDY, Assistant Adjutant- General:
MAJOR: I have the honor to report, for the information of the major-
general commanding, that my scouts report the enemy to have left
John's Island ; that there are no troops of the enemy at Legareville.
The enemy were observed landing on James Island on the 17th instant.
There are this morning three large vessels at the mouth of the Wad-
malaw.
Yery respectfully, vour obedient servant,
N. G. EVANS,
Brigadier- General, Commanding.
HEADQUARTERS REGIMENT ARTILLERY,
Fort Sumter, June 21, 1862.
Maj. J. R. WADDY, Assistant Adjutant- General:
MAJOR: I have the honor to report that one of the enemy's gunboats
came very near, in the main Ship Channel, and shelled Morris Island for
a short time about 2 o'clock to-day.
The battery at Cuininings Point did not reply, though the gunboat
was within range. Although out of my command, I sent over to sug
gest that one or two guns on siege carriages be masked by the sand
hills to-night, in order to prevent the boat from shelling the island.
The troops are very much exposed, and the work on the island will be
very much interfered with if the boats are allowed to come so near.
I do not deem it proper to waste the powder in this fort at extreme
ranges for our heaviest guns.
If there is no ammunition at the battery I will supply it to-night.
I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
W. R. CALHOUN,
Colonel, Commanding.
COLUMBIA, S. C., Saturday, June 21, 1862.
To the PRESIDENT :
SIR : After making myself acquainted, as far as practicable, with
the defenses of Charleston, both by the harbor and the various ap
proaches by James Island, and having had frequent conferences with
General Pernberton on the various points under consideration, I became
convinced, as well from my own observations as the information I was
570 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EASf FLA.
enabled to collect from various quarters, that General Pemberton was
doing all that a zealous, active, and intelligent officer could do with the
means placed at his command to defend the city against the approaches
of the enemy, both by land and water. With this conviction on my
mind I arrived in this city this morning and lost no time in seeking an
interview with Governor Pickens, who exhibited to me your telegraphic
dispatch to him of the 19th instant, wherein reference is made to the
assignment of either Generals Magruder, Huger, or Longstreet to the
command of this department. I have been made fully acquainted with
His Excellency's views in reference to this change and the arguments
he has presented in sustaining them, the chief of which is the want of
confidence by the authorities and the people generally in the ability
and capacity of the present incumbent. These, in my judgment, are
sufficient of themselves to impair his usefulness, and I think it would
not be doing justice to that officer to retain him in his present position
against such a weight of opposition. It is therefore with much re
luctance that I suggest the assignment of General Magruder to the
command, or, what I presume would be more acceptable to General
Pemberton, an exchange between him and General D. H. Hill, if the
latter officer can be spared without injury to his present command.
This exchange, however, I am inclined to think may not be made with
out some embarrassment to the service in Virginia ; but as it is a sug
gestion of the Governor, who assures me that the assignment of General
Hill will be entirely acceptable to the authorities here and will give
general satisfaction, and as it will cast less reproach on General Pem
berton than by adopting the other course, I can only suggest it for
your consideration.
While I make the above suggestions, I desire to add that I have
great confidence in the zeal and untiring efforts of General Pemberton
to do all that lies in his power and the energy of his will to effect the
object we so anxiously hope for. I know that he feels — honestly feels —
the weight of the responsibility which rests upon him, yet bears that
responsibility with calmness and a determination to discharge his duty
honestly and faithfully ; but with such an opposition as constantly sur
rounds him it would be difficult for any commander situated as he is
to effect much.
I have the honor to be, with perfect regard, your obedient servant,
S. COOPEE,
[Adjutant and Inspector General.]
CHARLESTON, S. C., June 22, 1862.
General S. COOPER,
Adjutant and Inspector General, C. 8. A., Columbia, S. C.:
MY DEAR SIR: Judge Magrath read to me yesterday the letter he
had proposed to you, at your suggestion, upon the subject of martial
law in this city. I suppose he sent it off last night. 1 agreed in his
views, but it struck me as he read that he had written rather diffusely.
The whole upshot of the matter seems to me to be this: Martial law is
appropriate to the government of a conquered or a hostile or a disloyal
territory and people. Charleston is not within either of these classes.
But there is another contingency where the application of martial law
is appropriate: It is when a territory is occupied for immediate press
ing military operations, such as the defense of a beleaguered city, as
.New Orleans in 1814, Eichmond and Charleston at this time. When ap-
CBAI-.
CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. — CONFEDERATE.
571
plied on such occasions it should be to the full extent the exigency may
seem to require — no further. Its application and the subjects of its
operation should be from time to time enumerated as occasion may
demand. In all other respects the municipal authority, the laws and
their tribunals, should be left in full vigor. In brief, martial law is to
be the exception. The municipal law is to continue to be the general
rule, prevailing \vherever not excepted. It is the reverse of this now
in Charleston; I think very unwisely. Your mind will rapidly trace
up the evil. The assumption by the military power of the administra
tion of matters having nothing to do with, not interfering with, or in
fluencing military operations, is assuming an unnecessary and unwise
burden. The old laws and tribunals have been suspended at one brush
in Charleston. New ones are to be supplied, or there are to be none
save the sitjustitia of the general commanding or his provost. I will
not ask you if there is wisdom in this, any more than I would think of
asking you if Charleston deserves to be considered disloyal or hostile.
I know the present state of things did not originate with the Confed
erate authorities, and I beg you to believe that it did not arise from
the wishes of the substantial or numerical power of the citizens of
Charleston, nor has it ever been advised or countenanced by the judg
ment of such citizens as would naturally and appropriately be advised
with on such an occasion.
There are some, perhaps many, reflecting men who think that besides
the defense and safety of Charleston other purposes influenced the origi
nators of the dishonor that is thus put upon her and her future history.
The truth would appear, if it were worth while or proper to discuss it
here, that the transfer of Charleston to exclusive military power was a
mere move in State party politics, and to aid in the continuance of power
the men in the State whom Charleston had just declared against with
great unanimity. But thisls wandering from my purpose.
I am, very truly and sincerely, your friend and obedient servant,
JAS. B. CAMPBELL.
Consolidated Morning Report of effective forces on James Island, commanded by General
William Duncan Smith, for June 23.
|
|
|
Station.
Troops.
$
P3
^
1
§
i$
I*
H
4
^
O
Secesaionville, Colonel Colquitt com
Infantry and artillery —
1,283
1,366
manding.
Lines
442
466
General Gist commanding.
Infantry
3,529
3,780
Light artillery ....
345
361
Cavalry
99
105
6 078
Fort Pemberton
263
277
De Saussure commanding.
Lines
718
761
1 260
1 347
Li»ht artillery
60
65
49
51
2 501
8 579
8,048
572 COASTS OF S. C., GA,, AND MID. AND EARt FLA.
CHARLESTON, S. C., June 24, 1862.
Hon. GEORGE W. RANDOLPH,
Secretary of War:
I have forbidden all sail vessels leaving the harbor, as I think they
are liable to be caught and the cotton to fall into the hands of the
eueinv. I ask for instructions.
J. C. PEMBEETON,
Major- General, Commanding.
EICHMOND, VA., June 24, 1862.
Gov. FRANCIS W. PICKENS, Columbia, S. C.:
Delayed action for letter from General Cooper; none received. Your
dispatch of yesterday received. Have sent for General Huger; expect
him in a few hours.
JEFFEESCXKT DAVIS.
HDQRS. DEPT. OF SOUTH CAROLINA AND GEORGIA,
Charleston, 8. C., June 25, 1862.
Brigadier-General SMITH, James Island, S. C. :
Should the enemy open another battery on the west of Secessionville
you had better have a 24-pounder rifled gun brought down to be placed
where the Parrokt-gun battery is. It is reported that Colonel Benbow's
regiment lands at Fort Johnson. The general wishes that regiment to
occupy the position that Colonel Graham's regiment occupied on the
island. If Colonel Benbow's has not arrived send another to that point.
J. E. WADDY,
Assistant Adjutant- General.
HDQRS. DEPT. OF SOUTH CAROLINA AND GEORGIA,
Charleston, S. C., June 25, 1862.
Brig. Gen. W. D. SMITH, James Island, S. C. :
GENERAL: The major-general commanding directs me to say he de
sires you should finish the battery at Secessionville as speedily as pos
sible, and that you should endeavor to prevent the enemy from erecting
their battery or batteries against that point.
E. W. MEMMINGEE,
Assistant Adjutant- General.
SAYANNAH, GA., June 26, 1862.
Hon. GEORGE W. EANDOLPH, Secretary of War :
The floating battery Georgia is finished and in immediate want of
a crew. Cannot furnish them from my command, and I ask authority
to call upon Major Dunwody for as many conscripts as will be re
quired. This matter is pressing, and the only mode of promptly sup
plying the battery with a crew, which the Xavy oflicers find themselves
entirely unable to enlist. I also ask authority to retain 3,000 of the
rifles lately arrived. I have more than that number of men without
arms.
H. W. MEECEE,
Brigadier- General, Commanding.
CHAP. XXVI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. CONFEDERATE. 573
HDQRS. DEPT. OF SOUTH CAROLINA AND GEORGIA,
Charleston , #. C., June 26, 1S62.
Gov. FRANCIS W. PICKENS, Columbia, S. C. :
GOVERNOR : Mr. F. J. Porcher is bearer of certain papers relating
to harbor obstructions, which I desire to lay before Your Excellency and
the Executive Council for consideration. It is useless to undertake this
work unless an ample supply of labor is sent here. So far from being
able to furnish it from what is now at my disposal, the force laboring
here on the many indispensable works is entirely inadequate. If you
expect the city to be saved my requisition for negroes must be promptly
met. I find myself now compelled to undertake many works which
ought not to have been left for me to do. I may have to call upon the
Charleston and Savannah Railroad Company to suspend the work upon
the railroad bridge. This I shall greatly regret, but it should have
been completed mouths ago.
You are aware that I have a small number of troops for the defense
of this city and Savannah. It is therefore the more necessary to sup
ply the deficiency by strong artificial defenses. As for the abandon
ment of Cole's Island, if I am properly supported I believe it will yet
prove to be the safety of the city. Had I the number of troops at my
disposal now which I had when that measure was adopted we might
defy the United States Army.
J. C. PEMBERTON,
Major- General, Commanding.
HEADQUARTERS DISTRICT OF THE CAPE FEAR,
Wilmington, N*. C., June 26, 1862.
Hon. GEORGE W. RANDOLPH,
Secretary of War, Richmond, Va. :
SIR: I received late last night your dispatch to send to Charleston
six Dahlgren guns or columbiads. I have no Dahlgrens and only eight
columbiads. Five of the latter are in Fort Fisher in casemate, from
which work to remove them would be risking the loss of that place in
case of an attack, because they are the best guns in position.
Considering the armament of all my works is veiy light, I have sent
none there. It is as painful to me not to send them as to run the risk
of so weakening my defenses here. My guns are so light that I am now
preparing to rifle and band them as far as possible here in the city. I
feel sure if you could examine the forts you would not have me remove
the guns required. I sent you a dispatch this morning.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
S. G. FRENCH,
Brigadier- General.
HEADQUARTERS BATTALION,
HcClellanville, S. C., June 28, 1862.
Brigadier- General SMITH :
DEAR SIR: I take this opportunity of informing you of the move
ments of the enemy on South Santee River. Tuesday night, the 24th
instant, the enemy made their appearance at the mouth of South Santee
River, with two steamers, one sloop and one tug-boat, at which time I
ordered Capt. Thomas Pinckney with his cavalry company and a de
tachment of Captain Gaillard's light artillery to Mr. Blake's plantation,
on the said river.
574 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAT. XXVI.
Wednesday morning, the 25th instant, I was called on by Captain
Pinckney for re-euforceraeuts, said steamers being 3 miles from them in
the river, manned with twenty-one guns. I immediately ordered Cap
tain Wheeler's infantry company to his assistance. In the afternoon I
was informed that the enemy had passed up the river, firing three shots
at Captain Piuckney and his command, passed up the river above him
some 2 miles, and anchored in said river. Captain Pinckney was com
pelled to remove his command to a point of more security. The next
morning, the 26th, I went in person. I had no guns that I could use to
any eifect but one G-pounder rifle gun (except one 32-pounder gun and one
12-pounder gun, which I could not use for the want of ordnance stores,
for which I made two requisitions previous to this time. I then sent
up for Captain Gaillard to bring his 6 pounder rifle gun, with which he
arrived in time, just as the boats were moving down the river. I
ordered him down to the edge of the rice field and to open fire on them,
which he did very promptly ; the first shot did not take effect ; the
second shot entered the stern of the last steamer as they moved off, at
which time they (the enemy) commenced shelling and shooting solid
shot at such a rapid rate I ordered Captain Gaillard in the woods
some distance. They kept up shelling until night and moved down
the river some 3 miles, and remained down the river until the morning
of the 27th. They steamed up, and came up the river and commenced
shelling the woods and the buildings on the bluff of the river. I kept
my infantry and cavalry in a skirt of woods all the time, and also kept
my pickets out day and night, waiting for them to laud and to prevent
the negroes from going to the enemy as much as I could. At 12.30
o'clock p. m. my pickets informed me that the enemy had landed men
and had sent them in the direction of Mr. Blake's house, said house
being about three-fourths of a mile from the river. I then took with
me Captain Piuckney's cavalry and Captain Wheeler's infantry com
panies and proceeded down the road some llalf a mile from the point
where I was stationed. I there formed my men into columns, dis
mounting 25 of Captain Pinckney's men, and placed them as skirmishers
on the left of Captain Wheeler's company. Near Mr. Blake's gate I dis
covered the enemy. I moved in column till meeting them, and they
appeared to pause and retired beyond the crook of the road, but in a
short time they came up at a double-quick along the road. They ad
vanced in about 150 yards and halted and fired on my column (which I
had in the woods, except about 12 men). I had the fire returned, and
at that moment they retreated around the bend of the road and fired on
my column again, which I had returned. The enemy retreated to their
gunboats. They also made an attack in the rear of my column with
about 10 or 12 men. Lieut. P. Bacot Allston, with 4 or 5 privates,
[who] was left in charge of the horses, repulsed and drove them back.
In doing so Lieut. P. Bacot Allston killed 1 man, who was carried off
by the enemy. They all then ran aboard of their boats and immediately
commenced shelling.
I ordered my command out of range of their guns. They threw some
9 and 11 inch shell and some 32-poimd balls. I am satisfied that they
had some one or two killed and several wounded, but carried them ott'.
I must state that the officers and men behaved nobly and bravely all
the time.
I did not have a man hurt during the entire action.
All of which is respectfully submitted.
1 am, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
S. D. M. BYED,
Major , Commanding Battalion,
CHAP. XXVI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. — CONFEDERATE.
575
Abstract from Monthly Report of the strength of the Department of South Carolina and
Georgia, commanded by Maj. Gen. J. C. Pemberlon, for June, 1862.
Commanding officer.
Troops.
Present for
duty.
-g
A
I
«f
4>
I|
-M CS
be
«i
j
1
Brig Gen. N. G. Evans
Second Military District
(formerly the Third).
Third Military District....
Fourth Military District
(formerly tho Sixth).
James Island
194
73
112
677
380
2,663
1,062
1,904
10, 257
6,053
3, 634
1,374
2,369
13, 882
8,524
4,26a
1,576
2,622
16, 963
10, 230
Col W S Walker
Brig. Gen. T. P. Drayton
Brig. Gen. S. R. Gist
Brig. Gen. H. "W. Mercer
Military District of Georgia.
Grand total
1,436
21, 939
29, 783
35, 656
Organization of troops in the Department of South Carolina and Georgia,
commanded by Maj. Gen. J. C. Pemberton, June, 1862.
FIRST MILITARY DISTRICT.
Brig. Gen. WILLIAM D. SMITH commanding. (T)
JAMES ISLAND.
Brig. (Jen. S. R. GIST commanding.
46th Georgia, Col. [P. H.] Colquitt.
47th Georgia, Col. [G. W. M.] Williams.
51st Georgia, Col. W. M. Slaughter.
1st South Carolina, Col. J. Hagood.
15th South Carolina, Col. W. D. De Saussure.
18th South Carolina, Col. J. M. Gadberry.
20th South Carolina, Col. L. M. Keitt.
21st South Carolina, Col. R. F. Graham.
22d South Carolina, Col. S. D. Goodlett.
23d South Carolina, Col. H. L. Benbow.
24th South Carolina, Col. C. H. Stevens.
25th South Carolina, Lieut. Col. [C. H.] Simonton.
Charleston Battalion, Lieutenant-Colonel Gaillard.
South Carolina Battalion, Lieutenant-Colonel James.
South Carolina Battalion, Lieutenant-Colonel Smith.
3d Battalion South Carolina Cavalry, Captain Hampton.
Battalion South Carolina Cavalry, Major Byrd.
South Carolina Cavalry Company, Captain Disher.
South Carolina Cavalry Company, Captain Johnson.
South Carolina Cavalry, Captain McKewn.
German Hussars, Captain Cordes.
1st South Carolina Artillery, Col. T. G. Lamar.
Battalion South Carolina Artillery, Major Lucas.
Battalion South Carolina Artillery, Lieutenant-Colonel White.
German Artillery, Company A, Captain Werner.
South Carolina Light Artillery, Captain Kanapaux.
South Carolina Light Battery, Captain Boyce.
South Carolina Light Battery, Captain Campbell.
South Carolina Light Battery, Captain Preston.
Nelson Artillery (Virginia), light battery.
Major Emanuel's command, near Georgetown.
Colonel Huger's command, James Island.
576 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVI.
SECOND MILITARY DISTRICT (formerly the Third.)
Brig. Gen. N. G. EVANS commanding.
16th South Carolina, Col. J. McCullough.
17th South Carolina, Col. J. H. Means.
Holcombe (South Carolina) Legion, Col. P. F. Stevens.
Detachment First South Carolina Infantry, South Carolina Zouaves, and
Lyles' Rifles.
1st South Carolina Cavalry, Lieutenant-Colonel Black.
Company cavalry, Capt. A. L. Campbell.
Company cavalry, Capt. J. D. Trezevant.
Rebel Troop, Capt. J. Jenkins.
Marion (South Carolina) Light Artillery, Capt. E. L. Parker.
Turner (Virginia) Light Artillery, Capt. W. D. Leake.
Washington Artillery, Captain Walter.
s _
THIRD MILITARY DISTRICT.
Col. W. S. WALKER commanding.
FOURTH MILITARY DISTRICT (formerly the Sixth.)
Brig. Gen. T. F. DRAYTON commanding.
Phillips' (Georgia) Legion, Col. William Phillips.
llth South Carolina, Col. D. H. Ellis.
Detachment Second Battalion South Carolina Cavalry, Lieutenant-Colonel
Colcock.
Saint Peter's Guards, Capt. H. C. Smart.
Caroline (Virginia) Light Artillery, Capt. T. R. Thornton.
MILITARY DISTRICT OF GEORGIA.
Brig. Gen. H. W. MERCER commanding.
8th Georgia Battalion, Lieutenant-Colonel Reid.
25th Georgia (company), Captain Smith.
39th [30th J Georgia, Col. [D. J.] Bailey.
47th Georgia, Company I, Captain Hines.
50th Georgia, Col. W. R. Manning.
54th Georgia, Col. C. H. Way.
[32d] Georgia, Col. [G. P.] Harrison.
Battalion Savannah Guards, Maj. J. Screven.
Liberty Guards, Captain Hughes.
Tatuall Guards, Captain Davenport.
2d Battalion Georgia Cavalry, Lieutenant-Colonel Bird.
De Kalb Rifles ( ), Captain Hartridge.
Lffingham Hussars, Captain Strobhar.
Hardwiek Mounted Rifles, Captain McAllister.
Lamar Rangers, Captain Brailsford.
Liberty Independent Troop, Captain Walthour.
Mclntosh Cavalry, Capt. O. Hopkins.
Partisan Rangers (battalion), Major Millen.
Partisan Rangers (company), Captain Banks.
Cavalry south of Altamaha, Major Clinch.
13th Georgia Battalion, Maj. [G. A.] Gordon.
Chestatee Artillery, Captain Bomar.
Columbus Light Artillery, Captain Croft.
Joe Thompson Artillery, Captain Hanleiter.
Light Battery Artillery, Captain Martin.
Light Battery Company D, First Georgia Regulars, Captain Read.
Terrell Light Artillery, Captain Dawson.
River batteries, Lieutenant-Colonel Anderson.
lort Jackson, Captain Anderson.
[Irish Jasper Greens, Company B, Captain O'Connor.)
Troops, Carston's Bluff, Colonel Wilson.
CHAP. XXVI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. CONFEDERATE.
577
Abstract from Return of the Department of Middle and East Florida, Brig. Gen. Joseph
Finegan commanding, for June, 1862.
Command.
Present for
duty.
Aggregate present.
Aggregate present
and absent.
I
1
1st Special Battalion Flor
5th Florida Infantry
ida Infantry
24
28
24
22
8
376
648
484
489
193
464
810
560
572
280
2,686
538
1,080
730
721
321
3,390
Eight companies Florida i
Eight companies Florida <
Two batteries artillery ...
nfantry
avalry
Total
106
2,190
CHARLESTON, S. 0., July 1, 1862.
Brig. Gen. K G. EVANS, Adams Run, S. C. :
Firing on James Island; salute from all our guns; complete victory
at Richmond; officially notified by Secretary of War.
If you can ascertain the enemy has diminished his force on James
Island will send you a regiment to attack him. I have reason to think
they have diminished, but cannot determine from this side of Stono.
It' I send a regiment it must be returned.
J. C. PEMBERTON,
Major- General, Commanding.
CHARLESTON, S. C., July 2 [?], 1862.
Brig. Gen. IN". G. EVANS, Adams Run, S. G. :
It is believed that more of the enemy's troops are leaving Stono. Be
on the alert.
J. C. PEMBERTOIsT,
Major- General, Commanding.
HDQRS. DEPT. OF SOUTH CAROLINA AND GEORGIA,
Charleston, S. C., July 2, 1862.
Brigadier- General EVANS, Adams Run, S. C. :
I have no doubt the enemy is moving his forces by water from James
Island; a few. may go by John's Island. You have sufficient force to
attack him, though I will send you another regiment if you think you
need it. Answer at once.
J. C. PEMBERTON,
Major- General, Commanding.
CAMP MlDDLETON, NEAR GEORGETOWN,
July 2, 1862.
Major-General PEMBERTON :
GENERAL: I have just received information that the enemy are on
37 R R— VOL xiv
573 COASTS OF S. C , GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVI.
their way up the Santee with the intention of burning the Northeastern
Railroad Bridge. They have been committing great depredations in this
district of late; such as burning barns, stealing negroes and rice, &c.
Very respectfully, yours,
J. H. TUCKER,
Captain, Commanding First Military District.
JAMES ISLAND, July 2, 1862 — 6.15 p. m.
General PEMBERTON:
Scouts have penetrated to the hedge near Griinball's house. The
enemy appears to have disappeared and their pickets gone from that
vicinity. Extensi\»e redoubts and intrenched lines are discovered in
rear of the large Grimball woods in an unfinished state. There is no
one to be seen this side of the marsh near GrimbalPs. Four boats at
GrimbalPs; a good many at Battery Island. A regiment reported at
or near Legare^s house. A close reconnaissance has been ordered, and
their position will be shelled from Secessionville. As most of them went
off from GriinbalPs in steamers Evans may be able to cut off some who
may be crossing from John's Island to-night.
Respectfully,
WM. DUNCAN SMITH,
Brigadier- General, 'Commanding.
CHARLESTON, S. C., July 4, 1862.
Brigadier-General SMITH, James Island, S. C. :
I send to-night as near 100 cavalry as I can to carry out an opera
tion against the enemy suggested by General Gist.
J. C. PEMBERTON,
Major- General, Commanding.
CHARLESTON, S. C., July 4,. 1862.
General HARLLEE, Florence, S. C. :
Information is received from Capt. J. H. Tucker of the enemy going
up the Santee, with the supposed design of burning the Northeastern
Railroad Bridge. I have no troops available. Call out the militia if
neccessary, and use the rifled Confederate guns in your possession for
its defense.
J. C. PEMBERTON,
Major- General, Commanding.
RICHMOND, VA., July 4, 1862.
Maj. Gen. GUSTAVUS W. SMITH,
White Sulphur Springs, Va. :
The President desires to know if you consider your health sufficiently
good to take command of the Department of South Carolina an4
CHAP. XXVT.J CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. CONFEDERATE. 579
Georgia, fixing your headquarters in Charleston or such other place in
the vicinity as you may deem proper.
S. COOPEE,
Adjutant and Inspector General.
HDQRS. DEPT. OF SOUTH CAROLINA AND GEORGIA,
Charleston, S. C. July 5, 1862.
Hon. C. G. MEMMINGER,
Secretary of the Treasury :
SIR : The engineer bureau in this city is urgently in need of funds
to conduct the necessary works for the proper defense of this place.
Capt. Francis D. Lee, engineer in charge of the bureau, informs me
that only $30,000 have been placed in his hands, and that $70,000,
issued on June 7, have not yet been placed to his credit with the assist
ant treasurer in Charleston. He has been compelled to take a loan
from the Bank of Charleston to the amount of $100,000. Thirty thou
sand dollars have been returned to the Bank of Charleston, leaving
an indebtedness to that institution to the amount of $70,000. The
amount issued on June 7 will just cover this indebtedness, and will be
so appropriated as soon as it arrives.
To properly conduct the work it is absolutely necessary that a fur
ther sum of $100,000 be issued and placed to the credit of Captain Lee
as early as possible.
J. C. PEMBEETON,
Major- General, Commanding.
EICHMOND, VA., July 5, 1862.
General PEMBERTON, Charleston, 8. C. :
Have the enemy evacuated James Island, and have you made a re
connaissance to ascertain whether his forces have been entirely with
drawn f If this is so, it would be well to occupy Cole's and Battery
Islands, Bull Bay, and Georgetown, constructing the necessary works,
and placing at each fort, necessary to hold on the coast of South Caro
lina and the Savannah Eiver, a garrison of the best artillery sufficient
to serve the requisite number of guns, so as to present the entrance of
marauding vessels. The residue of your troops you could then bring
here with the least delay for operations in the field. Additional heavy
guns will be sent as mav be practicable.
S. COOPEE,
Adjutant and Inspector General.
CHARLESTON, S. C., July 5, 1862.
General S, COOPER,
Adjutant and Inspector General, Richmond, Va. :
Daily reconnaissances are made. The enemy still occupies Battery
Island and probably Cole's. At least eight gunboats in Stono. It is
impossible to occupy either Battery or Cole's Island with heavy guns.
It never should be done ; I hope it never will be attempted. There
are few enough heavy guns for the defense of Charleston. We cannot
580 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVI.
protect the whole coast. If it is attempted to put guns in position at
Cole's and Battery Islands and at Georgetown they will be lost.
J. C. PEMBERTON,
Major- General, Commanding.
COLUMBIA, S. C., July 5, 1862.
Major-General PEMBERTON :
Your telegram of yesterday is received. General De Saussure goes
immediately to call out the militia ; but none, if any, can reach there
before to morrow (Sunday) night. The rifle guns at Florence have been
removed to Wilmington some time since by order of the Confederate
Government, and are now in General French's hands. General D.
requests you to send a section of a light battery to meet him at Gour-
din's Station as soon as you can. We have no guns that can be gotten
there in time. He will telegraph you from Florence to-night.
W. W. HARLLEE.
HEADQUARTERS,
James Island, July 5, 1862.
Maj. J. R. WADDY,
Asst. Adjt. Gen., Hdqrs. Dept. of IS. C. and Ga., Charleston:
MAJOR: Upon receiving the major-general's telegram last evening I
immediately sought of Brigadier-General Gist a description of " the
operation " anticipated by the general's dispatch. After a consultation
General Gist proposed to postpone the demonstration for the reasons
stated in my telegram to General Pemberton last evening, which prop
osition met with my full concurrence.
We, General Gist and myself, made a thorough reconnaissance of
several hours to-day, and found that the enemy had- massed himself on
Battery Island and below and had withdrawn his pickets to his imme
diate vicinity. Several large gunboats (one the Pawnee) were lying in
the Stono, flanking their position immediately, and one in the creek
which makes into Folly River. We found that no expedition could be
planned which promised any results such as General Gist hoped for
yesterday. Consequently we will not want the cavalry for the purpose
designed last evening. 1 am very anxious, however, for another com
pany of mounted men on the island, and would now respectfully apply
for them.
I remain, sir, most respectfully, your obedient servant,
WM. DUNCAN SMITH,
Brigadier- General, Commanding.
HDQRS. DEPT. OF SOUTH CAROLINA AND GEORGIA,
Charleston, S. C., July 6, 1862.
Col. W. R. CALHOUN,
Commanding Fort Sumter, Charleston Harbor :
COLONEL : I have the honor to forward to you a true copy of a dis
patch just received from Brigadier-General Gist to Brigadier-General
pmith, the latter of whom wishes you to communicate with Colouel
CHAP. XXVI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. CONFEDERATE. 581
Graham, commanding on Morris Island, and endeavor, if practicable,
to send out about three good reliable men to visit Folly Island and
obtain the desired information. I would at the same time mention
that General Pemberton is now absent on an official visit up the country
and General Smith is now commanding this district.
J. E. WADDY,
Assistant Adjutant- General.
[Inclosure.]
JAMES ISLAND, S. C., July 6, 1862.
General W. D. SMITH :
Twenty-four sail in Stono and Inlet and some large steamers. A
scout on Folly Island sent from Morris Island might find out to-morrow
what they are doing; something going on.
S. E. GIST,
Brigadier- General, Commanding.
CHARLESTON, S. C., July 6, 1862.
General S. COOPER,
Adjutant and Inspector General :
It is quite evident from reports made that the enemy is leaving- James
Island and going northward.
J. C. PEMBEETOtf,
Major- General, Commanding.
HDQRS. DEPT. OF SOUTH CAROLINA AND GEORGIA,
Near Santee River, July 8, 1862.
Captain WERNER, German Artillery:
The major-general commanding directs that you have your command
in readiness to remove to the south side of the Santee. The necessary
transportation by railroad will be ordered as soon as practicable. You
will then take such position as will be most advantageous, within short
reach of the river, that the field artillery may be as effective as pos
sible, and such position as cannot be easily flanked by infantry, and
with advantages the same as near the railroad bridge as possible for
the convenience of supplies. You will sink your battery for its pro
tection, and make requisition on the quartermaster's and commissary
departments for your requirements.
J. C. TAYLOE,
Aide-de-Camp.
SPECIAL ORDERS, ) HDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF S. C. AND GA.,
No. 101. j Charleston, S. C., July 8, 1862.
* ******
V. Brig. Gen. W. D. Smith, Provisional Army of the Confederate
States, is hereby assigned to command of the First Military District.
He will immediately make the proper distribution of the troops within
the limits of his district. Brig. Gen. S. E. Gist, Provisional Army of
582 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. (CHAP. XXVI.
the Confederate States, will remain on James Island, and will, under
the direction of Brigadier- General Smith, have command of that island
and the troops serving thereon.
***#***
By order of Major- General Peinberton:
J. B. WADDY,
Assistant Adjutant- General.
SPECIAL ORDERS, ) [FIRST MILITARY DISTRICT],
No. 2. j July 8, 1862.
By direction of the-major-general commanding the following changes
will be made in the position of troops in this military district:
I. Colonel Stevens' Twenty-fourth South Carolina Volunteers and
Slaughter's Fifty-first Georgia will relieve Colquitt's Forty-sixth Georgia
at Secessionville, of which position Colonel Stevens will take command.
Upon being relieved Colquitt's regiment will take post at Charleston
City Battery.
II. Gadberry's Eighteenth and Goodlett's Twenty-second South Car
olina and Captain Boyce's field battery will take post at Fort Johnson,
of which post Colonel Gadberry will take command.
III. Benbow's Twenty-third Begiment South Carolina Volunteers
will take post east of James Island Creek, on high ground in the vicin
ity of Dill's Bluff.
IV. Simonton's Eutaw Battalion will relieve De Saussure's Fifteenth
South Carolina, which, upon being relieved, will proceed to Citadel
Green, Charleston, and there encamp.
V. James' South Carolina Battalion will proceed to Summerville, S.
C., and there take post. Lieutenant-Colonel James will make requi
sition upon the quartermaster's department for the necessary trans
portation.
VI. The Charleston Battalion will encamp near1 Saint Stephen's Bail-
road Station.
By order of Brig. Gen. William Duncan Smith :
MALLOBY P. KING,
Captain and Assistant Adjutant- General.
EiCHMOND, VA., July 9, 1862.
Major-General PEMBERTON :
My telegram of the 5th was by direction of the President. Yours in
reply was submitted to him. Since your dispatch of the 6th, that it
uis evident from reports the enemy is leaving James Island and going
northward," the President decides that this information justifies the
movement already directed. He therefore desires that you carry out
the instructions in my dispatch of the 5th as early as possible. Maj.
Gen. G. W. Smith will probably relieve you in command of your pres
ent department.
Let me know the strength of your effective force.
S. COOPEE,
Adjutant and Inspector General,
CHAP. XXVI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. — CONFEDERATE, 583
HEADQUARTERS JOHN'S ISLAND,
July 9, 1862.
Maj. J. J. LUCAS,
Commanding Fort Pemberton :
MAJOR : Captain Walpole, returned last evening from Legareville and
vicinity, reports that the enemy have left Cole's and Battery Islands
entirely. Not a single being was to be seen in the village. Five gun
boats were between Cole's Island and Grimball's. Two schooners were
visible at the bar. My scouts on Wadmalaw report five vessels in
North Edisto, and that the enemy were engaged at something, and at
the sites of their old camps smokes were seen there. I think they are
destroying useless baggage there preparatory to an evacuation of Edisto
Island. Forward this.
Kespectfully, your obedient servant,
J. L. BLACK,
Lieutenant- Colonel, Commanding.
CHARLESTON, S. C., July 10, 1862.
Brigadier-General EVANS :
The enemy are making a demonstration against Pocotaligo. Have
a regiment at Adams Eun in readiness to move.
J. C. PEMBEETOST,
Major- General, Commanding.
CHARLESTON, S. C., July 10, 1862.
Col. W. S. WALKER, Pocotaligo, S. C. :
Is there any further information ? Two regiments are leaving here
and a light battery leaves Hardeeville. I will be with you as soon as
possible.
J. C. PEMBEETON,
Major- General, Commanding.
CHARLESTON, S. C., July 10, 1862.
General S. COOPER, Richmond, Va. :
It is absolutely impossible to put guns on Cole's or Battery Islands,
or on South or Cat Islands, near Georgetown. The enemy's gunboats
can always prevent it ; they command those places.
Aggregate efficient strength in whole department: Infantry, 14,357 ;
heavy artillery, 3,154; field artillery, some not equipped, seventeen
batteries, strength, 1,710 ; cavalry, 4,098.
This includes everything from Georgetown to Altamaha. The ene
my's troops are withdrawn from James Island, but his gunboats are in
Stono. I will act promptly on further instructions.
J. C. PEMBEETON,
Major- General, Commanding.
HDQRS. DEPT. OF SOUTH CAROLINA AND GEORGIA,
Charleston, S. C., July 11, 1862.
Brig. Gen. W. D. SMITH,
Commanding First Military District :
GENERAL : The major-general commanding having been instructed
584 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVI,
by the adjutant and inspector general, by the direction of the President
of the Confederate States, to occupy Cole's and Battery Islands and
Georgetown, and to construct the proper works, placing in each a suffi
cient number of heavy guns to prevent the entrance of marauding ves
sels, directs you to designate some officer to carry out these instructions.
You will also state the number of men required, the kind of guns to be
used, their caliber, &c., and from what points the guns should be taken,
selecting your guns from those already in position or otherwise within
the limits of your military district, which extends from the ]S orth Caro
lina boundary to the Stono River.
J. E. WADDY,
Assistant Adjutant- General.
CHARLESTON, S. C., July 12, 1862.
General §. COOPER,
Adjutant and Inspector General) Richmond, Va. :
Shall I go on to Eichmond at once ? Any troops to be moved can
follow me.
Very respectfully,
J. C. PEMBEETCVN',
Major- General, Commanding.
HEADQUARTERS THIRD MILITARY DISTRICT,
McPhersonmlle, July 12, 1862.
Maj. J. E. WADDY :*
MAJOR : I have the honor to request a small increase of the infantry
and artillery force in this district. I would suggest a section of a bat
tery ancl two companies of infantry with Major Jeffords' command at
Chisolmville ; a section of artillery and two companies of infantry to
Major Stokes' command at Graham ville ; five companies of infantry at
this point. This is the smallest force, in my opinion, compatible with
the security of the road.
I have felt ever since I assumed the command of this district the in
adequacy of the force for the purpose of defending the railroad ; but
for the time I knew that every garrison must be reduced to the mini
mum on account of the pressure at Charleston and Eichmond.
The present indications are that when the enemy next commence
operations against Charleston they will first try and cut the railroad,
and the most available point from which to land and move a strong
column is Port Eoyal Ferry.
The re-enforcements have never yet arrived in time to have prevented
a column of 3,000 men, boldly and rapidly led, from destroying the road.
[ beg most respectfully, as the increase asked for is but small, that
it be taken from corps well disciplined and commanded.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
[W. S. WALKEE,
Colonel.}
CHAP. XXVI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. CONFEDERATE. 585
RICHMOND, VA., July 13, 1862.
Maj. Gen. J. C. PEMBERTON, Charleston, 8. C.:
Do not proceed to this place until you receive further orders. Gen
eral G. W. Smith reports himself unfit for duty.
S. COOPEE,
Adjutant and Inspector General.
ADJUTANT AND INSPECTOR GENERAL'S OFFICE,
Richmond, Va., July 15 [13], 1862.
Maj. Gen. J. C. PEMBERTON,
Commanding, &c., Charleston, 8. C. :
GENERAL : It is deemed necessary for ultimate operations in this
quarter, which are daily becoming more and more important, that the
army for the defense of Eichmond should be speedily re-enforced. The
President therefore desires that you hasten forward such regiments and
brigades of your command as you may be enabled to spare. In con
sideration of the present season, when sickness most prevails on the
Southern coast and when the enemy would be least likely to carry on
active operations in that quarter, the President, after due reflection,
has arrived at the conclusion that you might safely dispense with at
least more than one-half of your effective force. In sending forward
this force he desires that you will place it under the command of Briga
dier-Generals Drayton and Evans, and retain for the command of the
troops on James Island and the coast of South Carolina generally
Brigadier-Generals Gist and Hagood at such positions as your judg
ment may indicate. I desire to impress upon you the importance of
this movement.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
S. COOPEK,
Adjutant and Inspector -General.
HDQRS. FIRST MILITARY DIST. OF SOUTH CAROLINA,
Charleston, July 15, 1862.
Maj. J. E. WADDY,
Asst. Adjt. Gen., Dept. of South Carolina and Georgia:
MAJOR : In accordance with my request to the major-general com
manding of July 11, 1862, for the detail of an engineer officer of experi
ence, who might reconnoiter Cole's and Battery Islands, Captain Echols
reported to me on the 13th instant. He was instructed through Special
Orders, No. 16, from these headquarters, of date July 12, 1862, a copy
of which is herewith inclosed. I have the honor to forward a copy of
the report of his reconnaissance, which he has submitted. Deeming
that this report may change or modify the major-general's directions
to me of July 11, 1862, I await further instructions.
I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
WM. DUNCAN SMITH,
Brigadier- General, Commanding.
[Inclosure No. 1.]
SPECIAL ORDERS, ) HDQRS. FIRST MILITARY DIST. OF S. C.,
No. 16. J Charleston, July 12, 1862.
Capt. W. H. Echols, Engineers, C. S. Army, having reported at these
586 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EA'ST FLA. [CHA*. XXVI.
headquarters by department orders for reconnoitering duty, will imme
diately proceed to James Island, South Carolina, in order to make a re
connaissance from there of Cole's and Battery Island, for the purpose
of constructing works upon those islands proper for preventing the en
trance of marauding vessels into Stono and Folly Rivers. He will as
soon as possible report to these headquarters the character of works
required and their location, the number and kind of guns to be used,
their caliber, &c. He will apply to General S. E. Gist, commanding
James Island, for all the facilities necessary for the carrying out of the
above, and will avail himself of General Gist's experience and knowl
edge of all the localities designated.
By order of Brig. Gen. William Duncan Smith :
MALLOEY P. KING,
Captain and Assistant Adjutant- General.
[Tncloshre No. 2.]
ENGINEER'S OFFICE,
Charleston, 8. C., July 14, 1862.
Capt. MALLORY P. KING,
Assistant Adjutant- General :
• CAPTAIN : I have complied with instructions in Special Orders, No.
16, from Headquarters First Military District of South Carolina, July 12,
directing me immediately to u proceed to James Island, South Carolina,
in order to make a reconnaissance from there of Cole's and Battery
Island, for the purpose of constructing works upon those islands proper
for preventing the entrance of marauding vessels into Stono and Folly
Eivers, and as soon as possible report to headquarters the character of
works required and their location, the number of men required, and the
number and kind of guns to be used, their caliber, &c." * * *
I have the honor to report that the reoccupation of either of the
islands is impracticable; that the communications (bridges, &c.) to
them are completely destroyed and cannot be reconstructed, as they,
as well as the islands themselves, are perfectly under the control of the
enemy's gunboats lying immediately at the islands.
I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
WM. H. ECHOLS,
Captain and, Engineer.
CHARLESTON, S. C., July 17, 1862.
Brigadier-General EVANS, Adams Run, S. C. :
You will proceed at once to Eichmond, Va., in command of Means'
Eegiment, Seventeenth South Carolina Volunteers, Holcombe Legion,
Benbow's Twenty-third Eegiment South Carolina Volunteers, Gad-
berry's Eighteenth Eegiment South Carolina Volunteers, Leake's Vir
ginia Battery, Boyce's South Carolina battery. A portion of your
troops will move via Charlotte, N. C.
J. C. PEMBEETON,
Major- General, Commanding.
CHARLESTON, S. C., July 17, 1862.
Brigadier-General DRAYTON, Hardeeville. 8. C. :
You will proceed at once to Eichmond, Va,, in command of Phillips'
CHAP. XXVt.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.— CONFEDERATE. 587
Legion, Slaughter's Fifty-first Georgia Regiment, from Charleston;
Manning's Fiftieth Georgia Regiment, from Savannah; De Saussure's
Fifteenth Regiment South Carolina Volunteers, from Charleston;
James' Third Battalion South Carolina Infantry, from Summerville.
Phillips' Legion and Manning's regiment will go by Augusta.
J. C. PEMBERTON,
Major- General, Commanding.
CHARLESTON, S. C., July 17, 1862.
General S. COOPER, Richmond, Va. :
Letters of 15th received. Troops have been ordered to Richmond.
Leaves me very low if I am to remain.
Very respectfully,
J. C. PEMBERTON,
Major- General, Commanding.
RICHMOND, VA., July 19, 1862. -
General PEMBERTON, Charleston, S. C.:
Have you received my letter of 13th I Answer by telegraph and state
what arrangement you have made for sending troops here and when
they may be expected.
S. COOPER,
Adjutant and Inspector General.
GENERAL ORDERS, ) HDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF S. C. AND GA.,
No. 37. f Charleston, S. C., July 19, 1862.
I. Col. Johnson Hagood, commanding First Regiment South Car
olina Volunteers, is hereby relieved from duty with his regiment and
will assume command of the Second Military District of South Carolina.
II. Col. W. S. Walker, Provisional Army Confederate States, will
assume command of the Fourth Military District of South Carolina, in
addition to his present command ; such command to be known here
after as the Third Military District of South Carolina, and to extend
from the Ashepoo to the Savannah River.
By order of Major-General Pemberton :
J. R. WADDY,
Assistant Adjutant- General.
CHARLESTON, S. C., July 20, 1862.
General S. COOPER:
The receipt of your letter of July 13 was acknowledged on 17th by
telegraph.
On the 18th De Saussure's and Gadberry's regiments left here.
On the 19th Slaughter's and Benbow's and Boyce's field battery.
On the 20th Means' regiment, James' battalion, and Leake's battery
will leave here.
588 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVI.
On the 20 tli, probably, Phillips' Legion and Manning's regiment, via
Savannah and Branchville.
On the 21st, probably, Holcombe Legion from here.
Major Hampton's four companies x>f cavalry as soon as their places
can be supplied on James Island. The troops are pushed on as fast as
transportation can be furnished. Have ordered no others.
J. C. PEMBEKTON,
Major- General, Commanding.
BLADEN SPRINGS, ALA., July 25, 1862.
Brig. Gen. GUSTAVUS W. SMITH, Charleston, 8. C. :
MY DEAR GENERAL : As it is proba-ble the enemy will ere long con
centrate all their available means for the attack of Charleston, 1 think
it would be well to make timely preparations (if not already made)
against the plan they are likely to adopt. As soon as their monitors
are ready they will endeavor to pass with them Forts Sumter and Moul-
trie ; hence you must so stop up with piles, rafts, &c., the channel be
tween these two works as will prevent any such attempt. Then they
will endeavor to take Cummings Point and Fort Johnston — to establish
batteries of heavy rifled guns there to batter down the gorge of Fort
Sumter, whose large magazine is directly exposed to Fort Johnston ;
hence you must guard against such attempts by the construction of
proper works on said points. The two cuts or creeks leading into Ash
ley Eiver from the Stono must be thoroughly obstructed from the pas
sage of light-draught monitors or gunboats. Those obstructions must
be properly protected by a few heavy guns in position and some rifle
pits. The bridge across Ashley Kiver must be protected by a strong
tete de-pont. A little in advance of that extremity of the bridge is a fine
position for a short defensive line. Colonel Hatch will show you the
one I thought of adopting. I will remark here that where said lines
are long I prefer strong detached works, such as redoubts or lunettes,
with closed gorges. A balloon would be of much assistance to you in
the defense of the line from Charleston to Savannah. It could be made
to travel along the railroad.
I hope you will excuse these suggestions, which probably have
already occurred to you, but I feel such an interest in your success and
the defense of Charleston and its vicinity that I could not resist the
desire of writing to you on the subject.
****** *
I remain, sincerely, yours,
G. T. BEAUKEGARD.
HDQRS. DEPT. OF SOUTH CAROLINA AND GEORGIA,
Charleston, S. C., July 26, 1862.
Hon. JAMES CHESNUT, Jr.,
Chief of Department of Military :
SIR : I have the honor herewith to return the letter of Dr. F. L.
Parker, of Georgetown, to Hon. I. W. Hayne,* which letter was by the
Governor and Executive Council referred to me and by me submitted
* Not found.
CHAP. XXVI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. CONFEDERATE. 589
to Brig. Gen. W. IX Smith, commanding First Military District of South
Carolina. You will perceive that General Smith concurs with me in the
opinion that no more troops can be spared for the defense of George
town and vicinity. Heavy guns for that purpose are out of the question.
I want at least 100 more for the defense of Charleston in the contin
gency of the enemy's gunboats passing Forts Sumter and Moultrie.
There are persons who believe that the withdrawal of the batteries from
Georgetown was a wanton exercise of power on my part, who assert that
they were sufficient to have prevented the en trance of the enemy's fleets,
&e., and that I should even now be compelled to replace them. I am
content to let these individuals enjoy their opinions, but I must, never
theless, continue to act on my own judgment unless controlled by supe
rior authority. It would afford me the most sincere pleasure to protect
all the private interests of the citizens of Georgetown and vicinity and
of the whole coast if it were in my power to do so. I am well aware,
too, that where private interests are so large that of the public is also
materially affected; but if I am without the means of protecting all, I
must, to the best of my judgment and ability, apply the means I have
to the security and welfare of those which are vital.
I have had the honor to receive this day another communication from
General Harllee and yourself, inclosing a letter from the Hon. E. F. W.
Allston, in relation to the enemy's depredations near Georgetown, that
measures be taken to increase the efficiency of Major EmanuePs com
mand. At present I have few or no arms at my disposal. I will, how
ever, renew my exertions to obtain them, and if successful devote them
to this special purpose.
On Wednesday next, unless absolutely prevented by more urgent
business,! propose visiting Major EmanuePs position, and will endeavor
to rectify what may be amiss in the disposition of his command. I
should be very much pleased to be accompanied by yourself or General
Harllee.
J. C. PEMBERTON,
Major- General, Commanding.
HDQRS. DEPT. OF SOUTH CAROLINA AND GEORGIA,
Charleston, S. C., July 26, 1862.
Hon. JAMES CHESNUT, Jr.,
Chief of Department of Military :
SIR : In reply to your communication, asking an official statement of
the amount of negro labor required to complete the defenses of Charles
ton and the State, and for what time the labor will be wanted, I have
the honor to inform you that 1,600 negroes can be kept constantly and
usefully employed for two mouths, or perhaps longer, at the obstruc
tions and defensive works about Charleston. I do not know that labor
for military purposes is needed elsewhere in the State for the present.
J. C. PEMBERTOK,
Major- General, Commanding.
HDQRS. DEPT. OF SOUTH CAROLINA AND GEORGIA,
Charleston, S. C., July 27, 1862. •
General S. COOPER,
Adjutant and Inspector General :
GENERAL: The only troops I can spare for the protection of the
590 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [dixr. XXYL
interests in the neighborhood of Georgetown consist of one field bat
tery of six pieces, equipped, and five companies of cavalry. These
cavalry companies are very poorly armed — some of them almost with
out arms which can be relied on. I have none to furnish them and
have no means of getting them. No inconsiderable portion of the
other troops in this department are in the same condition. I therefore
respectfully urge upon the War Department the necessity of directing
that at least 1,000 stand of short Enfield or Brunswick rifles be placed
at mv disposal.
J. C. PEMBEETON,
Major -General, Commanding.
HDQBS. DEPT. OF SOUTH CAROLINA AND GEORGIA,
Charleston, S. C., July 27, 1862.
Brig. Gen. W. D. SMITH,
Commanding, &c., Charleston, S. C. :
GENERAL: I am directed by the major-general commanding to say
Captain Walker has been ordered immediately to proceed to the con
struction of a work on Sullivan's Island, and that he has already re
ceived instructions on the subject.
E. W. MEMMINGEE,
Assistant Adjutant- General.
HDQRS. DEPT. OF SOUTH CAROLINA AND GEORGIA,
Charleston, 8. C., July 28, 1862.
Brig. Gen. W. D. SMITH,
Commanding, &c., Charleston, 8. C. :
GENERAL : The major-general commanding desires that three 8-inch
columbiads on the east face of Fort Sumter be moved to the northeast
face of the fort; also that a traverse-circle for a 10-inch columbiad be
constructed on the parapet of the northeast face of the fort. I am
further directed to say that Major Ehett has received personal instruc
tions as to the above changes. It is desired therefore that you see
that such changes axe carried out.
E. W. MEMMINGEE,
Assistant Adjutant- General.
EICHMOND, July 31, 1862.
Messrs. HIRAM EGBERTS and others,
Savannah, Ga. :
GENTLEMEN : Your communication of the 22d instant has been re
ceived and referred to the Navy Department for information.
The iron seized by that Department was taken for the completion of
gunboats. The whole amount will be insufficient for the boats intended
for the defense of Savannah alone, and it will be necessary to seek else
where for the requisite balance of material.
Land defenses can be built without iron, but it is indispensable for
boats j and, further than this, it is hoped that tUe boats, wbeu
CHAP. XXVI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. CONFEDERATE.
591
completed, will be able to prevent the enemy from conducting land
operations that 'would endanger the safety of the city.
Under the circumstances it appears to me that the safety of Savannah
is best insured by using the iron as at present intended by the Navy
Department.
JEFFEKSON DAVIS.
Abstract from Monthly Report of the Department of South Carolina and Georgia, commanded
by Maj. Gen. J. C. Pemlerton, July, 1862.
Preser
t for
a
g
du
ty-
I
A
^ #
Commanding officer.
Troops.
IB
t
H
i
|
1
1"
Bri^ Gen "W D Smith
First Military District Ches
233
3 958
5 323
6 560
ter, S. C.
Brig. Gen. S. K. Gist
James Island
277
3 648
5 201
6 661
Col J Ha^ood
Second Military District
82
1 330
1 888
2 534
Col W S "Walker
(formerly Third).
Third Military District (for
117
1 851
2 310
2 775
merly Third and Fourth.)
Brig. Gen. H. W. Mercer
Military District of Georgia.
430
6 763
9 785
12 485
Grand total
1 139
17 550
24 507
31 015
Organization of troops in the Department of South Carolina and Georgia,
commanded by Maj. Gen. J. C. Pemberton, July, 1862.
FIRST MILITARY DISTRICT.
Brig. Gen. W. D. SMITH commanding.
46th Georgia, Col. [P. H.] Colquitt.
21st South Carolina, Morris Island, Col. R. F. Graham.
Charleston Battalion, Lieutenant-Colonel Gaillard.
2d Battalion Georgia Cavalry.
Byrd's battalion [South Carolina.]
Rebel Troop, Capt. J. Jenkins.
Alston's battery artillery [South Carolina.]
Bonneau's company artillery [South Carolina.]
Ferguson's light battery.
German Artillery, Company A (Santee River).
Palmetto (South Carolina) Guards, Captain Bui Hi.
Nelson (Virginia) Light Artillery.
Emanuel's command (near Georgetown), Major Emanuel.
Farley's command (Castle Pinckney), Captain Farley.
Forces on Sullivan's Island, Col. L. M. Keitt.
Provost-marshal's brigade.
Rhett's command (Fort Sumter), Major Rhett.
SECOND MILITARY DISTRICT (formerly the Third).
Col. J. HAGOOD commanding.
1st Infantry (six companies), Colonel Dunovaut.
7th Battalion Infantry, Lieutenant-Colonel Nelson.
16th South Carolina, Col. J. McCullough.
1st South Carolina Cavalry, Lieut. Col. [J. L.] Black.
2d Battalion South Carolina Cavalry, Company C,
Marion Artillery, Captain Parker.
Artillery, Captain Walter,
592 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CiiAp.XXVL
THIRD MILITARY DISTRICT (formerly Third and Fourth).
Col. W. S. WALKER commanding.
JAMES ISLAND.
Brig. Gen. S. R. GIST commanding.
22d South Carolina, Col. S. D. Goodlett.
25th South Carolina (Eutaw regiment), Col. [C. H."] Simonton.
Cavalry forces, Captain Johnson.
1st South Carolina Artillery, Col. T. G. Lamar.
Palmetto Battalion Light Artillery, Lieutenant-Colonel White.
Kauapaux's company light artillery.
Preston's company light artillery.
Forces at Fort Pemberton, Maj. [J. J.] Lucas.
Forces at Secessionville, Col. C. H. Stevens.
MILITARY DISTRICT OF GEORGIA.
Brig. Gen. H. W. MERCER commanding.
8th Georgia Battalion, Lieutenant-Colonel Reid.
10th Georgia Battalion, Major Rylander.
25th Georgia, Company I, Captain Smith.
30th Georgia, Col. D. J. Bailey.
32d Georgia, Col. G. P. Harrison, jr.
47th Georgia, Col. [G. W. M.J Williams.
50th Georgia.
54th Georgia, Col. C. H. Way.
59th Georgia, Col. [Jack] Brown.
Battalion Savannah (Georgia Guards), Major Screven.
4th Louisiana Battalion, Lieutenant-Colonel McEnery.
De Kalb Rifles, Captain Hartridge.
2d Battalion Cavalry (Companies D, E, and B), Lieutenant- Colonel Bird.
Cavalry south of Altamaha, Lieutenant-Colonel Clinch.
Effingham Hussars, Captain Strobhar.
Hardwick Mounted Rifles, Captain McAllister.
Lamar Rangers, Captain Brailsford.
Liberty Independent Troop, Captain Walthour.
Mclntosh Cavalry, Captain Hopkins.
Partisan Rangers (battalion), Major Millen.
Partisan Rangers (company), Captain Anderson.
Partisan Rangers (company), Captain Banks.
9th Battalion Georgia Artillery, Major Leyden.
13th Georgia Battalion, Maj. [G. A.] Gordon.
Chestatee Light Artillery, Captain Bomar.
Columbus Light Artillery, Captain Croft.
Echols' Light Artillery, Captain Tiller.
Joe Thompson Artillery, Captain Hanleiter.
Martin's light artillery, Captain Martin.
Terrell Light Artillery, Captain Dawson.
Light Battery Georgia Regulars, Company D, Captain Read.
Savannah River batteries, Lieutenant-Colonel Anderson.
Fort Jackson, Captain Anderson.
Irish Jasper Greens, Company B, Captain O'Connor.
Liberty Guards, Captain Hughes.
Tatnall Guards, Captain Davenport.
Troops at Carston's Bluff, Colonel Wilson.
CHAP. XXVI. J CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. CONFEDERATE.
593
Abstract from Monthly Return of the Department of East and Middle Florida, Brig. Gen.
Joseph Finegan commanding, for July, 1862.
Command.
Present for
duty.
Aggregate present.
*
j
3
1st Special Battalion Florida Infantry*
3
10
25
9
109
169
476
248
151
192
527
288
185
238
628
323
Three independent companies of infa"ntry
Ei^ht companies of cavalry t . . .......
Two batteries of artillery
Total
47
1,002 1,158
I
1,374
*Nb report from Companies A, B, G, and F. tNo report from Blocker'a company.
EICHMOND, VA., August 4, 1862.
Major-General PEMBERTQN :
Colonel Hagood has been appointed brigadier- general, and the ap
pointment will be sent by to-day's or to-morrow's mail.
S. COOPEE,
Adjutant and Inspector General.
EICHMOND, VA., August 4, 1862.
Major-General PEMBERTON :
Is martial law any longer necessary outside of your encampments
and on the islands occupied by your force ? If not, I would be glad to
restore the civil authorities to their uninterrupted functions, except in
the places named.
JEFFEESON DAVIS.
HDQRS. DEPT. OF SOUTH CAROLINA AND GEORGIA,
Charleston, S. (7., August 4, 1862.
D. W. JORDAN, Georgetown, S. C. :
&IR : I am directed by Major-General Pemberton to say to you that
he is in receipt of a letter* addressed by you to Hon. C. G. Memmiuger,
and by him referred to the Secretary of War, and by the Secretary
of War referred to him; also a letter* addressed to the general direct.
In answer to these letters the general directs me to inform you that he
cannot, he regrets to say, spare any more troops for that section of
country. He has just visited Georgetown, and is of opinion that noth
ing more can be done with the troops at his disposal than he has already
ordered.
J. E. WADDY,
Assistant Adjutant-General.
EICHMOND, August 5, 1862.
Gov. FRANCIS W. PICKENS, of South Carolina, Columbia, S. C. :
DEAR SIR : A press of occupations has delayed reply to your letters
* Not found.
594 COASTS OF S. C , GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA [CHAP. XXYL
of the 19th and 20th ultimo,* but their contents have received the care
ful attention of General Lee and myself. We both concur with you in
opinion as to the importance of the preservation of the Charleston and
Savannah Railroad. It is believed that the cavalry under Colonel
Walker, and such infantry force as is available, will be, as you intimate,
sufficient for its protection against the present force of the enemy, and
that the troops retained in and near Charleston will be able to hold the
harbor and the portion of the road near it. General Lee is of opinion
that experience has proved it to be easier to defend a railroad by mass
ing troops at salient and commanding points to repress the attack of
the e.neinjr and strike him if he advances than to extend the force along
the whole line.
With respect to the regiment of Colonel Dunovant, their excellent
condition and discipline would doubtless have rendered their services
very valuable in the operations here, but the designation of the troops
to be sent from South Carolina was left to the discretion of the general
commanding the department, and for the reasons given above as mak
ing it desirable to have them here it was probably deemed important
that they should not be removed from your coast.
If guns can be procured it will undoubtedly be advisable to reoccupy
the batteries for the defense of the Santee. With respect to the reoc-
cupation of Cole's and Battery Islands, the opinions of military men are
so different that I should be unwilling, while at a distance from the
locality, to decide the question. The matter may be left open for further
consideration or for the decision of a new commander.
Regarding the removal of the present commanding general, I am
desirous of obliging you and would be glad also to secure the services
of General Pemberton elsewhere. 1 have found that it would be easier
to relieve him from his present command than to replace him. I have
tried to get a competent officer, whose assignment to the position
would be satisfactory, and will not relax my efforts to that end. My
own confidence, however, in General Pemberton is such that I would
be satisfied to have him in any position requiring the presence of an
able general.
1 established martial law in South Carolina very reluctantly, after
being repeatedly importuned to do so. I entirely agree with you that
the civil authorities should be restored to their uninterrupted functions
as soon as it is possible to do so, and have telegraphed to General Pem
berton to inquire if martial law cannot now be suspended, excepting at
military camps and on the islands occupied by troops.
The importance of accumulating labor during the present season for
completing the defenses of Charleston cannot be overestimated, and I
am glad to learn that it has received your attention and assistance.
Very respectfully, yours,
JEFFERSON DAYIS.
STATE OF S. 0., ADJT. AND INSP. GENERAL'S OFFICE,
Charleston, August 11, 1862.
General G. T. BEATJREGARD, Blade-n Springs, Ala :
DEAR SIR: Your letter ot' 1st instant t did not reach here until to-
aay, which will excuse, I hope, the apparent delay in the reply.
* Not found, but see Piekeus to Pemberton, August 18, p. 598.
t Not found.
CHAP. XXTJ.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. CONFEDERATE. 595
0 ,
To carry out your wishes in the manner yon indicate will be very
difficult. The cadets of the Military Academies are under the direction
of a board of visitors and not under the military authorities of the State,
and although subject while in the academies to the Army Regulations,
yet no provision has ever been made for voluntarily leaving, except
expulsion. Upon joining they are required to sign a matriculation
promise, and I have submitted for the consideration of the chairman
of the board whether this, coupled with the fact of their being by law
constituted the State Arsenal guards, may not render such as leave
liable as deserters. I have taken every step which at present appears
to me possible to reclaim young Proctor, and will earnestly endeavor to
return him to the Arsenal. The truth is that many of these lads have
been seduced away by an officer who desired to raise a battalion or
regimental organization, and who having failed in all other ways availed
himself of an excitement among the cadets, arising out of their appre
hension of being conscripted, and, inflaming their disordered imagina
tions, has succeeded in enlisting a good many. His course meets much
disapprobation. I have written him relative to young Proctor, and also
to Col. James Chesuut, asking the aid of the latter, together with that of
Col. John S. Preston, commanding Camp of Instruction at Columbia
(where Proctor is). Major General Pemberton, who commanded this
department, has been absent for some days, but is expected on Wednes
day, 13th instant. Your letter to him has been received at his office,
and upon his return 1 will endeavor to get Proctor discharged and re
manded to the Arsenal. I need scarcely, dear sir, assure you that I
will use every exertion to meet your wishes, and will keep you informed
of the results.
The intelligence of your impaired health was very sad, not only to rny-
self personally, but to your numerous friends throughout the State.
With Governor Pickens and Colonel Chesuut it has been a frequent
subject of our conversation. Permit me to express my cordial congratu
lations upon your recuperation, and my hope that in entire restoration
to health you may speedily be enabled to rejoin the scene of your valua
ble labors.
I inclose a hastily-drawn sketch* of the country around Charleston,
with the lines of defensive works. Upon Charleston Neck, just above
the city limits, a bastioued line has been run from the marshes of Ashley
to those of Cooper River. These liin-s have a ditch in front of about 10
feet width and about 15 feet from the bottom of the ditch to crest of the
parapet. A few siege howitzers are in position. In Saint Andrew's there
are two sets of lines, one being about 2 miles beyond the bridge and the
other about 0; the first is a continuous line of breastworks, with some
redans for guns, but none are mounted. The second is a couple of heavy
redoubts commanding the road, and covered in front by a heavy wet
ditch, made by damming the waters of two creeks, one of which runs into
Ashley and the other into Stono River; in the greater part of this ditch
the water is permanently left; in that part which the road runs through
there is no water, but twelve hours will put nearly 3 feet of water over
the entire road. Upon Western James Island a redan line has been
run from Wappoo Creek to James Island Creek, and a little outside
of the right flank of the line two bastioned works have been thrown
up to protect Stono River; one is inclosed, the other open. These two
works are mounted with heavy guns and are quite substantial works.
On Eastern James Island a redan line runs from the marsh in rear of
*Not found,
596 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVL
Secessiouville to James Island Creek, aud inside of the line is a system
of lunette redoubts flanking each other. Secessionville, from its posi
tion, constitutes an advanced work on the left of this line, aud being
surrounded by marshes, may as against a laud attack be called in
closed. A heavy line is thrown across the neck leading to the vil
lage and heavy giiuis are in position. The full credit of this work
at Secession ville is due to Col. L. M. Hatch, as he adopted it. The
lines upon James Island are generally considered very strong — impreg
nable, it is said. It may be presumption in one to express a contrary
opinion, but I cannot regard them as formidable against a strong and
brave foe. For the greater part they are little more than heavy breast
works, which may give confidence to raw troops, but as they cover a
great extent, and run through a country nearly the whole of which is
a natural road, masses may be thrown upon any particular point, and
the works are not strong enough to resist such an attack. The Seces
siouville work, upon the contrary, is strong, but it was only saved by
the obstinate courage of the 600 men who defended it. Had Secession-
ville been taken I believe the whole eastern line would have fallen in
forty-eight hours.
Piles, rafts, and booms are being driven and stretched across the
harbor in such positions as to expose the attacking fleet to a concen
trated fire. Two heavily iron -clad gunboats, driven by steam, will
probably be completed during the course of the next month.
By all these details I have trespassed, dear sir, upon your time and
patience. Your question, however, invited an answer, and I have en
tered into details which your familiarity with the locations will prob
ably make interesting to you.
I had hoped to be in the field defending these works; for long antici
pating a war, I had endeavored to familiarize myself with the features
of the country. My brigade, however, being only a militia one — but I
do not fear to say fully as well drilled and equipped as most of those
in service — was pulled to pieces and I am left to chafe in a bureau.
With the expression of my high respect and regard, I am, dear sir,
very sincerely, your obedient servant,
WILMOT G. DE SAUSSCTRE,
Adjutant and Inspector General South Carolina.
HDQRS. DEPT. OF SOUTH CAROLINA AND GEORGIA,
Charleston, S. C., August 15, 1862.
His Excellency JEFFERSON DAVIS,
President of the Confederate States :
Mr. PRESIDENT : I respectfully recommend that martial law be dis
pensed with in the State of South Carolina, except on the islands "ad
jacent to the city of Charleston and for a distance of 1 mile around
the military encampments without the limits of said city.
Very respectfully,
J. C. PEMBERTON,
Major- General, Commanding.
HDQRS. DEPT. OF SOUTH CAROLINA AND GEORGIA,
Charleston, S. C., August 15, 1862.
His Excellency FRANCIS W. PICKENS :
SIR : I have the honor to inform you that I have this day recom-
CHAP. XXV1.1 CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. CONFEDERATE. 597
mended to the President of the Confederate States that martial law be
dispensed with in the State of South Carolina, except on the islands
adjacent to the city of Charleston and for 1 mile around the military
camps without the limits of said city. 1 have requested the President
to issue his orders accordingly as soon as practicable.
J. C. PEMBEETON,
Major- Genera I, Comm anding.
HDQRS. DEFT. OF SOUTH CAROLINA AND GEORGIA,
Charleston, 8. C., August 16, 1862.
Brig. Gen. JOHNSON HAGOOD,
Commanding, <£<?., Adams Run, S. C. :
GENERAL : I am directed by the major-general commanding to say
he desires you should make a reconnaissance (using the Eebel Troop)
up the country around Summerville, S. C. He has been informed that
much disturbance and alarm are caused by gangs of runaway negroes,
leagued witl) .deserters in that neighborhood. The report of such re
connaissance will be made to these headquarters.
K. W. MEMMINGER,
Assistant Adjutant- General..
EXECUTIVE OFFICE,
Richmond, August 16, 1862.
Gov. FRANCIS W. PICKENS, Columbia, S. C. :
MY DEAR SIR: Your letter of the 10th instant* has been received.
I have recently had a long interview with General Pemberton, and re
ceived a full exposition of his views relative to the defense of the coast
of South Carolina. I find that his determination to hold the city of
Charleston is as fixed as you could desire it to be, and that the meas
ures he has adopted to that end are in a good state of progress and
promise to be effective. The obstructions to the harbor, so far as coin
pleted, have been tested with favorable results, and when finished'
would seem to be sufficient, in connection with proposed batteries and
the forts, to prevent vessels from entering.
With respect to the questions concerning which there has been a
difference of opinion, I have determined, as they are high problems of
engineering, to send, at the earliest possible day, an officer of engineers,
in whose experience and knowledge you will, I am sure, confide, to ex-
nmine and report upon the points at issue. Meanwhile 1 have re
quested General Pemberton to have a conference with yourself, and,
if it be desired, with the council, in order that he may communicate to
you, as he has to me, the defensive arrangements that have been pre
pared and projected.
With every desire to gratify your wish for a change in the commander
of the department the matter has been attended with much difficulty.
General G. W. Smith, who was indicated, might have been spared for
that command, but his physicians have pronounced that the climate
would unfit him in his present state of health for duty on the coast of
South Carolina. The general who would fulfill the requirements of the
* Not found.
508 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CnAp.
position must be an officer not only experienced in infantry and artillery
service, but also generally acquainted with engineering. The educa
tion, elementary and practical, of General Pemberton in the old Army
and our own service has given him this requisite knowledge. I do not
now find it practicable to send in his place another general who would
equally well answer for the command, lie is, besides, thoroughly ac-
quaiuted with the condition of the department, and feels an interest
in the works that are in progress for its defense, which would have to
be acquired by a new commander.
I hope, after a conference with General Pemberton and when you
are more fully acquainted with his plans, that you may have the same
confidence in his ability and good judgment that has made me willing
to intrust him with so important a command, and feel secure that all
the aid you may give him will be well and zealously applied to the de
fense of a harbor of great and increasing value to the Confederacy, and
of a city for the successful resistance of which we have a desire height
ened by the malignity which makes it the special object of attack and
would doom it to destruction.
Very respectfully and truly, your friend and fellow-citizen,
JEFFEKSOtf DAVIS.
KICHMOND, Va., August 18, 1862.
Major-General PEMBERTON :
Suspend martial law to the extent you recommend and issue orders to
that effect in my name.
JEFFERSON DAVIS.
STATE OF SOUTH CAROLINA,
Headquarters, Columbia, August 18, 1862.
Maj. Gen. J. 0. PEMBERTON, Commanding:
SIR : I received yours in relation to the restoration of civil authority
where martial law has been declared. I am glad to hear of it. I had
written tbe President on the 29th of last month urging him to restore
the civil authority, and particularly iu the country parishes. You re
collect I, as Governor, proclaimed martial law over Charleston and 10
miles beyond the corporate limits, and afterward you got the Presi
dent to enlarge it from the Santee to the Edisto, including parishes
that run 50 miles up in the interior, where there are not even military
companies stationed to execute the law, and as all civil authority was
suspended, of course there has been no law during the operation of
martial law. I take great pleasure in saying that we have divided off
the State into sections in order to supply you with negro labor, and
there is no doubt but that the measure will be ample for all you want;
but I most respectfully suggest that if you were to assign some officer
like Colonel Lamar, who is a practical manager of negroes and en
tirely identified with the country, specially to take charge of all labor
to be sent down and to direct and control it under the plans and
requisitions of your engineers, the owners of the negroes would feel
satisfied, and in addition to this he would, as an energetic, practical
man, get far more work done for you. When I first occupied Morris
island to erect the channel batteries there and the batteries on Cum-
. XXVI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. CONFEDERATE. .r)9(J
mings Point I found that there was no management of the negroes in
the practical execution of the works, and I appointed Colonel Lamar
and Colonel Bearing (now on General Gist's staff) for the special pur
pose of superintending the working of the negroes, &c. 1 know of no
two men in the State who are their equals in the business, and if you
were to publish an order assigning them to the same position again I
most respectfully suggest that you wTonld derive great aid from them,
and the public service in this particular would be advanced to your
entire satisfaction.
I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
F. W. PICKENS.
GENERAL ORDERS, l HDQRS. DEPARTMENT or S. C. AND GA.,
No. 48. J Charleston, S. C., August 10, 18C2.
By direction of the President of the Confederate States martial law
will be suspended on and after this date in that part of the State of
South Carolina over which it was established by virtue of his procla
mation, as embodied in General Orders, No. 33, from the Adjutant and
Inspector General's Office, dated May 1, 1802, except on the islands
adjacent to the city of Charleston and in military camps without the
limits of said city and 1 mile around said camps, where it continues to
exist as established in the aforesaid proclamation.
J. C. PEMBEKTON,
Major- General, Commanding.
GENERAL ORDERS, ) WAR DEFT., ADJT. AND TNSP. GEN.'S OFF.,
No/ GO. J Richmond, Auguxt 21, 18G2.
I. Whereas Major-General Hunter, recently in command of the en
emy's forces on the coast of South Carolina, and Brigadier-G neral
Phelps, a military commander of the enemy in the State of Louisiana,
have organized and armed negro slaves for military service against
their masters, citizens of this Confederacy; and whereas th-e Govern
ment of the United States has refused to answer an inquiry whether
said conduct of its officers meets its sanction, and has thus left to this
Government no other means of repressing said crimes and oiitn^es
than the adoption of such measures of retaliation a.s shall serve^to
prevent their repetition :
Ordered, That Major General Hunter and Brigadier-General Phelps
be no longer held and treated as public enemies of the Confederate
Stutes, but as outlaws; and that in the event of the capture of either
of them, or that of any other commissioned officer employed in drilling,
organizing, or instructing slaves, -with a view to their armed SIM vice in
this war, he shall not be regarded as a prisoner of war. but held iit close
confinement for execution as a felon at such time and place as the Presi
dent shall order.
By order :
S. COOPER,
Adjutant and Inspector General
600 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MJD. AND EAST FLA. [CHAI-. XXVI.
HDQRS. DEPT. OF SOUTH CAROLINA AND GEORGIA,
Savannah, Ga., August 25, 1862.
General S. COOPER,
Adjutant and Inspector General :
GENERAL: Brigadier-General Mercer, commanding this military dis
trict, informs me the Hon. Secretary of War has instructed him to send
Colonel Brown's Fifty-ninth Begiinent Georgia Volunteers to Virginia
so soon as its services as a guard over the prisoners of war in confine
ment at Macon are no longer needed. I beg respectfully to call the
attention of the Secretary to the fact that I have not been notified of
this contemplated movement, and that I only incidentally learned it in
conversation with General Mercer. In a department constituted like
this of South Carolina and Georgia, where the important cities of each
State are mutually dependent for support and assistance, it ceases to be
a question of mere etiquette and military usage, but may be of vital in
terest that orders affecting the disposition of troops be passed through
my headquarters. In the case referred to I trust the movement will
not be required unless it be considered an absolute necessity. It is not
improbable, and by no means impossible, that the enemy, aware of the
small force at my disposal, ma~y endeavor to retrieve his ill-fortune on
this coast by a sudden movement with all his troops upon one of the
two cities. Colonel Brown's regiment and Major Bylander's battalion,
although guarding prisoners at Macon, are as much relied upon for the
defense of Savannah as if on duty on the line of intrenchments about
this city.
J. C. PEMBEBTON,
Major- General, Commanding.
HDQRS. DEPT. OF SOUTH CAROLINA AND GEORGIA,
Charleston, 8. C., August 28, 1862.
ALFRED F. BAYENEL,
President of the Northeastern Railroad Company :
DEAR SIR: You must be fully aware of the importance of completing
the obstructions between Fort Sumter and Sullivan's Island before the
enemy is prepared with his iron-clad boats to attempt to force a pas
sage. I have good reason to believe that if I succeed in laying these
obstructions, covered as they will be by my heavy batteries, he will
either be deterred from making the attempt or be foiled shoirid he make
it. Without tin-si' obstructions 1 have little, doubt: he will a I- least try
to run the gauntlet of our batteries, and it is by no means improbable
he will succeed. We have now in readiness nearly, if not quite, suffi
cient chain to cross the channel twice. Heretofore the progress of the
work has been delayed—almost defeated — for want of the necessary
labor, which I have in vain endeavored to procure. There is now. how
ever, a reasonable prospect that it wilj be furnished.
I now, sir, come to the point with you. Equally necessary to the com
pletion of this indispensable work is the supply of timber for the con
struction of the floats. This cannot be delivered in time without the full
and cordial co-operation of your road. It is mainly on your route that
the proper timber is to be obtained. Large quantities, I am officially in
formed, are now cut and lying by the road-side awaiting transportation.
Much larger quantities still will be required. I therefore ask you, sir,
to give your country all the assistance in your power. You cannot
CiiAivXXVl.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.— CONFEDERATE. 601
more effectually do it at this time than by the influence of your official
position and authority to facilitate the rapid completion of this work.
J. O. PEMBERTON,
Major- General, Commanding.
SPECIAL ORDERS, > ADJT. AND INSPECTOR GENERAL'S OFFICE,
No. 202. J Richmond, Va., August 29, 1862.
* # # * * * *
XV. General G. T. Beauregard, C. S. Army, is assigned to the com
mand of the Department of South Carolina and Georgia.
# # * # # * *
By command of Secretary of War:
ED. A. PALFREY,
Assistant Adjutant- General.
HDQRS. DEPT. OF SOUTH CAROLINA AND GEORGIA,
Charleston, S. C., August 31, 1862.
General S. COOPER,
Adjutant and Inspector General :
GENERAL: I have just received Special Orders, No. 202, of August
29, from your office. I most earnestly entreat that I may be ordered
into the field for active service. I have done everything in my power
for the State of South Carolina, and my arrangements for the defense
of Charleston and Savannah have been made, whether judiciously or
not, at least uncontrolled by the interference of others. Having occu
pied this position since the early part of March last, it will be humiliat
ing in the extreme to me to be now — almost at the moment of antici
pated attack by the enemy — reduced to a subordinate position in this
command. I beg that it may be understood that I do not even intend
to express a wish not to be superseded by General Beauregard, who I
doubt not is far more capable of filling satisfactorily the responsible
position I have so long held. I only ask that I may be transferred
myself to some other point where I may not be useless; and if I may
be allowed a perference, I would say to Virginia.
J. C. PEMBERTON,
Major- General, Com m anding.
HDQRS. DEPT. OF SOUTH CAROLINA AND GEORGIA,
Charleston, 8. C.> August 31, 1862.
Col. J. S. PRESTON,
Asst. Adjt. Gen., Commanding Camp of Instruction :
COLONEL: In a note of this date Brigadier-General Gist informs me
that he has been unofficially informed that some of the prisoners re
cently taken on Pinckney Island (the last sent up) assert the enemy to
have a small iron gunboat in the Stono. You are respectfully requested
to examine them upon the subject and report to this office.
J. C. PEMBERTON,
Major-General, Commanding.
602 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVI.
Abstract from Monthly Return of the Department of South Carolina and Georgia, commanded
by Maj. Gen. J. C. Fcmber1on,for August, 1862.
Commanding officer.
Troops.
Present for
duty.
Aggregate present.
Aggregate present
and absent.
Officers.
i
First Military Diwtrict
James Island
Second Military District
Third Military District
Military District of Georgia
212
173
87
117
401
3, 500
2, 791
1, 239
1, 8fii»
5, 84'J
4,868
3, 930
1,745
2,459
8.561
6,227
5, 3*5
2, 579
3, 154
11, 490
Col W & Walker • --•
Brig Gen H W Mercer
990 ; 15,238
21,563 ; 28,835
1
Abstract from Monthly Return of the Department of East and Middle Florida, Brig. Gen.
Joseph Finegan commanding, for August,
Command.
Present for
duty.
Aggregate present.
Aggregate present
and absent.
I
1
1st Special Battalion Florida Infantry * < »«
19
10
19
7
251 354
1G1 i W01
4J9 j 5±>
202 ! 273
473
245
625
329
Eisrht companies of oavjilryt "
Total
55
1,053
1,330 i 1,672
* No report from Company F.
tNo report from Chambers' company.
HDQRS. SIXTH BATTALION CAVALRY, SOUTH CAROLINA,
Chisolmsville, September 4, 1862.
Lieut. E. II. BARNWELL,
Asst. Adjt. Gen., Third Military District, Pocotaligo, 8. C. :
LIEUTENANT: I beg to report the enemy advanced in one gunboat
up to Field Point about 2 o'clock yesterday. The pickets, secreted
themselves on margin of bluff and waited until the steamer came up,
dropped anchor, and was swinging around with the tide — distant some
90 yards from them — when, upon collection of crew on deck, they de
liberately fired into them with rifles, creating much confusion and sud
den dispersion. They (the pickets) are perfectly confident some were
struck. The steamer then opening with her guns so rapidly they were
obliged to fall back amid a shower of balls, shells, &c ., through an open
field; all escaped unhurt. Subsequently three boat loads landed, but
before two could reach the point, although I moved rapidly, the steamer
had retired down river. Considerable firing occurred yesterday a. m,
in vicinity of Hutchinson Island, i beg to inclose roster of battalion ;
also petition for Private Richardson to be forwarded.
I have the honor to be, respectfully, your obedient servant,
R. J. .JEFFOKDS,
Major Sixth Battalion Caralry South Carolina, Command ng.
CHAP. XXVI] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. — CONFEDERATE. 603
HDQRS. DEPT. OF SOUTH CAROLINA AND GEORGIA,
Charleston, & C., September 10, 1862.
General S. COOPER, Adjutant and Inspector General :
GENERAL : Special Orders, No. 209, current series, from your office,
requires partisan corps raised without authority in the Department of
South Carolina and Georgia to be disbanded, and the men composing
the same within the conscript law to be ordered to report at camps of
instruction. It was distinctly understood by all applicants for authority
to raise corps of partisans within the limits of South Caiolina that my
approval was given with the express proviso and understanding that
no men between the ages of eighteen and thirty-five years were to be
taken into these corps. I h ive the honor to inclose herewith copy of a
letter* from the honorable Secretary of War to Mr. H. K. Aiken, which
you will observe gives no authority to raise his corps except under the
restrictions imposed by me.
On the Oth of this month I received through Lieut. Col. J. S. Pres
ton, assistant adjutant- general, commanding Camp of Instruction near
Columbia, tbe accompanying copy of a telegram.* This was the first
intimation from any official source that the restrictions imposed by me
and sanctioned by the War Department had been subsequently an
nulled; nor do I now believe that such interpretation as has been given
to this telegram was intended by the Department. I am very confi
dent that so important a change in its views would have been duly com
municated to me. Until very recently I had no reason to believe that
any of the corps of Partisans, raised, as I supposed, with my approval
and by authority of the War Department, contained within its ranks a
single individual between the ages of eighteen and thirty-five years.
How entirely I was mistaken in this belief is evidenced by the accom
panying report,* furnished me on my call by Colonel Preston on the
Gth instant. It appears that no less than 601 men have thus been
brought into these new and comparatively useless organizations to the
prejudice of the old regiments, many of which are reduced to mere
skeletons. I do not consider these corps to have been raised by
authority, nor were they ever reported to me for duty, as required by
the instructions of the Secretary in his letter* (herewith) of May 10.
I respectfully request to be informed in what light the Department
regards them. With respect to partisan corps raised within the limits-
of the military district of Georgia, no individual has applied for or
received my approval, as required by Article Y, General Orders, No. 30.
If authority has been obtained for such organizations in that State it
must either have been on the approval of Brigadier-General La\\ton,
without reference to myself as department commander, or by authority
granted directly from the Department of War. It is very certain that
these troops ought to be disbanded, but I desire to be informed as to
the wishes of the Secretary, and to what extent he regards my approval
as necessary to their authorized organization.
J. C. PEMBERTON,
Major- General, Commanding.
SPECIAL ORDERS, > ADJT. AND INSPECTOR GENERAL'S OFFICE,
No. 218. ] Richmond, Va., September 17, 1802.
*******
XVI. Maj. Gen. J. 0. Pemberton, on being relieved in command of
Not found.
C04 COASTS OF S. C., GA , AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAT. XXVl.
the Department of South Carolina and Georgia by General Beauregard,
will repair to this city and report for farther orders.
**#***#
By command of Secretary of War :
JNO. WITHERS,
Assistant Adjutant- General.
HDQRS. DEPT. OF SOUTH CAROLINA AND GEORGIA,
Charleston, S. C., September 18, 1862.
Brig. Gen. S. R. GIST,
Commanding First Military District :
GENERAL : I desire you to suspend for the present the work upon the
line known as the inner obstructions, at least until General Beauregard
shall determine whether they shall be prosecuted further.
J. C. PEMBERTON,
Major-General, Commanding.
CHARLESTON, S. C., September 19, 1862.
Col. J. GORGrAS,
Chief of Ordnance, Richmond, Va. :
COLONEL : I am directed by the major-general commanding to inclose
to you the accompanying letter from Lieutenant Smith, and to say that
as the complement of heavy guns promised for this department cannot
be had from Rome, you have the goodness of providing them from Rich
mond, over and above the 10-inch columbiads which are to come from
there. I have the honor further to state that it is the wish of General
Beauregard, who has not yet assumed command, that the guns you sup
ply from Richmond in lieu of those expected from Rome, Ga., be 10 inch
instead of 8-inch columbiads, in view of the formidable character of the
iron-clad ships preparing for the attack of Charleston.
I am, colonel, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
AMBROSIO JOSfi GONZALES,
Colonel and Chief of Artillery, Dept. South Carolina and Georgia.
CHARLESTON, S. C,, September 20, 1862.
General S. COOPER,
Adjutant and Inspector General, Richmond, Va. :
The removal of Colonel Black's cavalry regiment from this depart
ment deprives Charleston of two-thirds of the cavalry for its defense,
and leaves the entire coast in the Second Military District without a
single cavalryman.
Very respectfully,
J. C. PEMBERTON,
Major- General, Commanding.
RICHMOND, VA., September 22, 1862.
Major-General PEMBERTON :
Colonel Calhoun's death in a duel being announced in the papers, I
CHAI-. XXVI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. CONFEDERATE.
605
desire to call your attention to the 25th and 20th articles of war and to
request an immediate execution of them.
G. W. EANDOLPH,
Secretary of War.
HDQRS. DEPT. OP SOUTH CAROLINA AND GEORGIA,
Charleston, 8. C., September 22, 1862.
Brig. Gen. H. W. MERCER,
Commanding District of Georgia :
GENERAL : The rapid completion of the gunboat at Savannah is of
the greatest importance. You will therefore furnish every assistance
in the way of mechanics which the authorized agent of the Navy De
partment may call for. If necessary ordinary routine must be tempo
rarily dispensed with to facilitate this object.
J. C. PEMBEETON,
Major- Genera I, Commanding.
HDQRS. DEPT. OF SOUTH CAROLINA AND GEORGIA,
Charleston, 8. £., September 22, 1862.
Hon. S. K. MALLORY,
Secretary of the Navy :
SIR : General Beauregard not having yet assumed the command of
this department, I have this day acted on your letter of the 19th instant,
addressed to General Beauregard, and have directed Brigadier-General
Mercer, commanding at Savannah, to furnish all the aid (in mechanics)
from enlisted men which the authorized agent of the Navy Department
may call for to hasten the completion of the gunboats.
J. C. PEMBEETON,
Major- General, Commanding.
Guns bearing on Charleston Harbor
[About September 22, 1862.]
FORT SUMTER.
i
1
i
CD
8
M
1
&
*8
o3
•fi
*c
C
Kind of ordnance.
Caliber.
&
ss.
£ 2
1^
8
o
o
a
1
&
•a
g
3
O
^
i
i
10-inch
3
3
12
g
4
8-inch
2
8-inch
5
9-inch
3
3
7
42-pounder
6
32-pouiulor
32-pouncler
31
10
21
32-pounder
4
4
24-pouiuler -
24-pounder
6
10-inch
4
606 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAF. XXVL
Guns bearing on Charleston Harbor — Continued.
FORT BEAUREGARD.
Kind of ordnance.
Caliber.
Number of guns.
Barbette carri
ages.
Casemate carri
ages.
Field carriages.
Siege carriages.
Naval carriages.
8-inch
1
1
8-inch
1
1
32-pounder. .
1
1
32-pounder
1
1
24-pounder. .
2
2
FORT MOULTRIE.
8 inch colnmbiid 8-inch
9
3
1
6
4
11
3
1
9
3
1
6
4
11
3
42 pounder rilled 42-pounder
3° ponmter rinYd ' 32-pounder
24-pmind*T 24-poundi>r. .
24-pminder howitzer 24-pounder . .
1
ENFILADE BATTERY.
10-inch columbiad .... --• 10-inch,
3
3
CASTLE PINCKNET.
24-ponnder 24-pounder
9
^
6
1
3
24-poun<ler rifled 24-pounder .
BATTERY ON MORRIS ISLAND AND FLOATING BATTERY.
8-inch naval shell gun 8-incb.
4
4
2
33-pounder rifled 32-pounder
2
32-pouuder 32-pounder. .
24-pounder rifled 24-pounder
3
1
2
1
FORT JOHNSON.
8-inch columbiad . 8-inch
1
2
1
1
2
1
32- pounder 32-pounder. .
32-pounder rifled 32-pounder
BATTERY AT LAWTON'S.
32-pounder 3°-pounder
4
4
6-pounder rifled 6-pounder
1
1
CHAP. XXVI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. — CONFEDERATE.
Guns in ricinity of Charleston not hearing on harbor.
BREACH INLET BATTERY.
607
Kind of ordnance.
Caliber.
«
1 1
3*
8-incli sea-coast howitzer | 8-inch 1
32-pounder 32-pounder. . 2 2
24-poumler 24-pounder.. .1 1 i.
•12-pounder 12-poumler.. 3 : 3
12-pounder rifled > i2-pouuder. . 1 1
FORT LAMAR, SECESSIONVILLE.
8-inch columbiad j 8-inch 2 1 1
32-pounder. 32-pounder.. 633
32-poumler rifled 32-pounder..! 1 1
18-pounder 18-puuuder.. 1 1
10-inch mortar 10-inch 1
8-inch mortar i 8-inch l|
24-pounder rifled 24-pounder. . 2 ! 2
EAST LINES, JAMES ISLAND.
8-inch howitzer 8-inch ! 1 ! 1
32-ponmler 32-poundor..j 4 2 2
24-pouuder 24-pnunder . . j 14 4 10
24-poumler lifled 24-pouuder . .j 1 1
18-potiuder '. lh-pounder.. j 2 2
18-pound, r rifled 18-pouiider..| 1 1
I ;
WEST LINES, JAMES ISLAND.
8-inch sea-coast howitzer 8-inch 1 1
42-pounder 42-pounder.. 2 2
32-pounder 32-pounder.. 4 1 8
24-pounder 24-pounder.. 4 4
12-pounder 12-po under.. 3 8
12-pounder rifled 12-pounder.. 2 2
FORT PEMBERTON.
10-inch columbiad 10-inch 2 2
8-inch eoiumbiud 8-inch 2 2
42-pouuder 42-pounder. .j 2 2
32-poumler 32-poun<ler..i 4 4
32-pounder rifled 32-pounder. .! 2 2
24-pounder rifled 24-poumler.. 4 4
18-pounder 18-pounder.. 2 2
12-pounder 12-p. .under . 1 1
12- pounder rifled 12-pounder.. 1 1
32-pounder howitzer 32-pounder.. 1 1
ADJUTANT AND INSPECTOR GENERAL'S OFFICE,
Richmond, Va., September 23, 1862.
Maj. Gen. J. C. PEMBERTON, Charleston, S. C. :
Suspend the march of Aiken's battalion Partisan Rangers from Colum
bia and order them to the coast.
By order of the Secretary of War :
S. COOPER,
Adjutant and Inspector General.
608 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVI.
RICHMOND, VA., September 23, 1862.
Maj. Gen. J. C. PEMBERTON, Charleston, S. C. :
Send Capt. J. H. Brooks' company of Rangers to Richmond, Va.,
unless it is required on the coast.
Bv order of the Secretary of War :
S. COOPER,
Adjutant and Inspector General.
RICHMOND, September 23, 1862.
Brig. Gen. H. W. MERCER, Savannah, Ga.:
Colonel Anderson thinks it important to have a permanent artillery
organization for the defense of Savannah. If you concur with him
you may convert unattached infantry companies, with their consent,
into heavy artillery, or unattached companies fhay with their own con
sent and that of their colonels be detached and converted into artillery,
and their places in the infantry regiment supplied by new companies
or by conscripts, or you may organize the existing heavy artillery com
panies into a battalion, fill the companies to their maximum, and organ
ize new companies from the excess above the minimum. The minimum
of an artillery company is 70 and the maximum 150 privates. Nomi
nate field officers for the battalion when organized. A regimental
organization for heavy artillery is not convenient ; two battalions will
be better.
G. W. RANDOLPH,
Secretary of War.
CHARLESTON, S. C., September 23, 1862.
General PEMBERTON :
In view of your exact knowledge of the requirements of the depart
ment I have to request that you will furnish me before leaving with
an estimate of the minimum forces of all arms which you may regard
as essential for a successful defense of:
1st. Charleston and its dependencies ;
2d. The District of South Carolina;
3d. Savannah and its dependencies j
4th. The District of Georgia.
You will also oblige me by having prepared a statement showing the
present location of all the troops of different arms in the whole depart
ment.
Respectfully, general, your obedient servant,
[G. T. BEAUREGARD.]
HDQRS. DEPT. OF SOUTH CAROLINA AND GEORGIA,
Charleston, September 24, 1862.
I assume command of the department pursuant to paragraph XV,
Special Orders, No. 202, Adjutant and Inspector General's Office, Rich
mond, August 29, 1862.
All existing orders will remain in force until otherwise directed from
these headquarters.
CHAP. XXVI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. CONFEDERATE. 609
In entering upon my duties, which may involve at an early day the
defense of two of the most important cities in the Confederate States
against the most formidable efforts of oar powerful enemy, I shall rely
upon the ardent patriotism, the intelligence, and unconquerable spirit
of the officers and men under my command to sustain me successfully.
But to maintain our posts with credit to our country and our own honor
and avoid irremediable disaster it is essential that all shall yield im
plicit obedience to any orders emanating from superior authority.
Brig. Gen. Thomas Jordan is announced as adjutant and inspector
general and chief of staff of the department.
G. T. BEAUREGARD,
General, Commanding.
HDQRS. DEPT. OF SOUTH CAROLINA AND GEORGIA,
September 24, 1862.
General G. T. BEAUREGARD, Charleston, S. €.:
GENERAL : I have the honor to state, in answer to your inquiry, that
in my opinion this department can be successfully defended against
any reasonable force which it is probable the enemy may bring against
it, to wit :
James Island: 10,000 infantry, 1,000 heavy artillery, 500 cavalry,
5 field batteries.
Morris Island : 1,000 infantry, 250 heavy artillery, 50 cavalry.
Sullivan's Island : 1,500 infantry, 800 heavy artillery, 50 cavalry,
1 field battery.
Christ Church : 1,000 infantry, 100 heavy artillery, 200 cavalry, 1
field battery.
Saint Andrew's : 2,000 infantry (movable column), 200 heavy artil
lery, 200 cavalry, 2 field batteries.
Second District : 5,000 infantry, 800 cavalry, 200 heavy artillery, 2
field batteries.
Third Military District : 5,000 troops of all arms.
Savannah : 10,000 infantry, 1,200 heavy artillery, 2,000 cavalry, 8
field batteries.
Fort Sumter : 500 heavy artillery, 100 riflemen.
Georgetown (merely for purposes of preventing marauding, the de
fense of Winyaw Bay requiring obstructions and a numerous heavy
artillery, both of which are entirely out of the question) : 7 companies
of cavalry, 3 batteries of artillery, 3 companies of infantry.
The above estimate is based upon the supposition that attacks may
be made simultaneously upon different points.
I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
J. C. PEMBERTON,
Major -General, Provisional Army.
[Indorsement. ]
CHARLESTON, S. C., September 24, 1862.
Approved as the minimum force required, as above stated, to guard
with security the Department of South Carolina and Georgia.
G. T. BEAUREGARD,
General, Commanding.
39 R R— YOL
610 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP.
CHARLESTON, S. C., September 24, 1862.
September 16.— I inspected, with General Commanding Pemberton
and Brigadier-General Jordan, my chief of staff, and Colonels Gonzales,
chief of artillery, and Lay, Confederate States inspector-general, four
new sand batteries en barbetie near the west end of Sullivan's Island,
bearing on the floating boom which is being laid across the channel to
Fort Sum tor. These batteries are not yet finished and only two 10-inch
col u m bi ads are in position, one not being serviceable yet. The maga
zines are not yet constructed. The boom is composed of railroad iron,
strongly linked together with heavy iron bands, and is protected and
buoyed up by pieces of timber of the length of the bars, bound to
gether by iron rings. The bars are 4 feet under water and the whole is
anchored every sixth section with an anchor. About one-fourth of this
boom is laid. It has been tested, I am informed, by running against
it a loaded vessel towed by a steamboat, but it -resisted well, parting
the tow-line, a 2-inch hawser. I am told it will all be completed in
a week or ten days. It is proposed also to lay another one about
100 yards in rear of this one if sufficient chains and anchors can be
had ; also a rope obstruction about the same distance in front of the
other, the object of which is to entangle the propellers of the enemy's
steamers while under the fire of the heavy guns of the fort. The arma
ment of the four sand batteries is to consist of seven 10-inch columbiads,
one 8-iiich coluinbiad, and two 42 pounder rifled guns. Fort Sumter
has forty-six heavy guns (above 32-pounders) and Fort Moultrie nine
heavy guns, bearing at once on these obstructions. There will, besides,
be two strong gunboats, armed each with four guns, to assist in their
defense. 1 am informed thvy will be finished in one month. They are
considered by me perfectly indispensable in the defense of this harbor.
We then visited the Neck Battery, on Morris Island, erected to de
fend the approach to Fort Sumter. It is not yet entirely completed,
requiring about two weeks longer to finish it. Its gorge ought to be
entirely closed to prevent surprise. A few rilled guns ought also to be
put to bear on the Main Channel.
On returning I inspected the small work (Fort Eipley) now being
built on cribs in the bay about half way between Castle Pinckney and
Fort Johnson. It is intended for five heavy guns en barbette, and is
nearly ready for its armament. Its foundation ought to be protected
outside to the high -water mark with debris. A series of the'se small
works in shallow water nearer to the entrance of the harbor would be
very advantageous.
I did not visit Castle Pinckney, the armament of which is nine 24-
pounders and one 24-pounder rifled, as I am acquainted already with
this work, and considered it nearly worthless, capable of exerting but
little influence on the defenses of Charleston.
^ September 17.— 1 inspected this day, with General Pemberton and
Colonels Gonzales and Lay, the defensive lines on James Island from
the Wappoo to near Secessionville, a distance of about 3 miles. They
They consist of a system of forts, redoubts, redans, and cremailleres, not
very properly arranged and located, with the exception of Fort Pem
berton, on the Stono, and of some of the redoubts. A simple system,
might, I think, have been originally devised requiring a smaller number
of men to defend it. However, the present one ought to answer our
purpose with a proper force of about one and a half men to the running
yard of development. Each redoubt and redan has at least one heavy
gun now in position. The lines between Dill's Creek and the Wappoo
are not yet entirely completed, requiring about fifteen days more. Fort
CHAP. XXTX] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. CONFEDERATE. 611
Pemberton is a strong work, and has an armament of twenty puns of
various calibers. There are two batteries on the Ashley River to defend
it and the entrance into Dill's Creek and the Wappoo. For want of
guns they are still unprovided with their armament, except the one at
Lawton's, which has four guns (32-pounders) of little use.
September 18. — I inspected this day, accompanied by the same officers
as on the 17th instant, Forts Moultrie and 8u inter, which were found
to be in fine order and condition, considering the repairs in progress at
the latter. The armament of the first consists of thirty-eight guns, of
various calibers from 24-pounders to 8-inch colnmbiads, and the gar
rison of about 300 effective men. The armament of the second work
consists of seventy-nine guns, of various calibers from 32-pounders to
10-inch columbiads and seveu 10-inch mortars, and the garrison of about
352 effective men. The barracks in the latter work are being reduced
in height to protect them from the enemy's shots. The small steam en
gine for making fresh water is in rather an exposed position. It ought
to be removed to a sai'er place or be properly protected. Battery Beaure-
gard, across Sullivan's Island, in advance of Fort Moultrie, to defend
the approach from the east, is armed with five guns.
The work at the eastern extremity of the island, to defend the inte
rior approach by water to the rear and west of Long Island, is a redoubt,
armed with eight guns, two 32-pounders, the rest small guns.
I am informed by Major-General Pemberton that all the above works
are sufficiently garrisoned. My conclusion is, that when the above works
contemplated for the defense of this harbor, especially the obstructions
and gunboats, are completed and those works are properly armed with
the heaviest guns, the enemy's vessels and gunboats will find it very
difficult, if not next to impossible, to penetrate far enough to injure or
take Charleston. Until then the city will not be properly protected.
September 10. — I inspected this day, with the same officers, the works
at Secession vi lie, which are irregular and but poorly constructed. A
force of about 200 men is still at work upon them, increasing and strength
ening them. The position is naturally a strong one, being surrounded
with low marshes and a wide creek, except on one side, where there is
a very narrow strip of level ground, along which the Abolitionists made
their attack, which amounted to a surprise, and yet they were defeated
by one-fifth their number. I do not, however, see the necessity or ad
vantage of holding in force this advanced position. A strong picket
would be sufficient. The armament of this work consists of. two 8 inch
naval guns, one 18-pounder howitzer, six 32 pounders, one 32-pouuder
rifle, two 24-pounder rifles, and two 10-inch mortars.
September 20. — I left this day at 9.30 a. m. for Savannah on a tour of
inspection with General Pemberton and Colonel Gonzales. Stopped
at Kantowles Station to inspect works there — au open battery with
four guns (two 24-pouriders and two 12-pounders) ; a strong and good
position, commanding roads from Savannah and Church Flats, on
Stono, 3 miles oft', where there is also a battery of three guns (two 32-
pounders and one rifle 12-pounder) to command an obstruction and
prevent a lauding from John's Island and the passage by water up
Church Flats, in which ca^e troops at Adams Run 9 or 10 miles off, a
central and healthy point, would have to support that battery or fall
back on the one at Kantowles. The right flank of the latter should be
extended, or a detached redan constructed toward the prairie or marshes
in the direction of Wallace's — where there is also a battery of two guns
(one 32 pounder and one rifled G-pounder), occupying a strong isolated
position — to flank battery at the station and two bridges across Ban-
612 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND LAST FLA. [CHAP.XXVL
towles Creek, a branch of the Stono. below Church Flats. This river
must be examined from the latter point to the Wappoo Cut to deter
mine if there are any landing places by which the works at the overflow
could be turned. There are two inclosed field works miles from
Charleston, commanding the road from Savannah to the long or new
bridge across the Ashley. They appear to be well located, provided
they cannot be turned on the right or left toward the Wappoo, which
must be inquired into if they are unarmed.
!S('}rfcmber lil. — I inspected this day the defenses of Savannah with
the same officers and General Mercer, commanding. They are not yet
completed, but are progressing rapidly. Those on the river, I am in
formed, are finished. Fort Boggs excepted, which has, however, its
armament, sixteen guns, in position. The line of lunettes and redans
around the city are about half finished, I should judge. These works
are rather too close to each other and unnecessarily strong in profile.
There are about 1,400 men (negroes) at work upon them. The ob
structions, piling and crib work, filled in with stones and bricks, about
1 mile below Fort Jackson and its batteries, are nearly completed, re
quiring about ten or fifteen days longer to finish them. They will then
obstruct very thoroughly, I think, the navigation of the river. They
will, however, require to be watched and repaired constantly, owing to
the effect of the current on the bottom between the cribs.
The outer line of defenses, consisting of detached works or batteries
at Thunderbolt and other points, armed with heavy guns, were not
visited for want of time, but I am informed by General Pernberton that
they are completed, well armed, and with a proper garrison could not
be taken by the enemy if well defended. By their advantageous posi
tion they cannot be turned. He places great reliance on them. An
additional work at Coffee Bluff, on the Ogeechee, ought to be con
structed, iu the opinion of the chief of engineers of the Georgia Dis
trict, Captain McCrady. This must be looked into.
Upon the whole 1 consider Savannah thoroughly defended from a
nav;d attack, and when its line of laud defenses will be completed,
with a proper garrison of about 15,000 men, may be considered im
pregnable until the enemy shall bring against it an overwhelming force,
which it-is not probable they will ever attempt, as the result, if favor
able, will not compensate them for the expense and trouble.
September 24. — I inspected this day with Colonel Gonzales the line
of works on the Neck to defend the city of Charleston from laud attack
from the north. It is a continuous bastion line of strong profile and
elaborately constructed, but badly located, I believe, not being well
adapted to the ground. It is commanded to a certain extent by woods
in front, and can be enfiladed and taken in reverse by gunboats on the
Cooper and Ashley Rivers, particularly from the last. No traverses
have been constructed. They are absolutely required. Even then this
line could hardly be held successfully against a fleet of gunboats in
each of said rivers. The two batteries at the Half-Moon Battery are
not finished. They are intended for five and three guns each, to 'com
mand the Cooper River and Town Creek. The distance to the former
is too great. A much better position could foe found, I think, on the
Opposite side of the river at Hobcaw Bluffs, but obstructions would also
be required. The profile of the parapet of those batteries is too great,
especially of the first one. Adaptation of "means to an end" has not
always been consulted in the works around this city and Savannah.
Much unnecessary work has been bestowed upon many of them.
G, T. BEAUKKGAItD, General] Commanding,
(} HA p. XXVI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. — CONFEDERATE. 613
SPECIAL ORDERS, ) HDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF S. C. AND GA.,
No. 173. f Charleston, 8. C., September 24, 18G2.
I. Maj. Gen. J. C. Pemberton is relieved from duty in this depart
ment, and will proceed to obey paragraph XVI, Special Orders, No.
218, Adjutant and Inspector General's Office, Richmond, Va., Septem
ber 12, 1862.
##*****
By command of General Beauregard :
THOMAS JOED AN,
Chief of Staff.
HEADQUARTERS STATE OF SOUTH CAROLINA,
Charleston, September 20, 1862.
General BEAUREGARD, Commanding:
DEAR GENERAL : I inclose the within to you, being a letter from
myself to General Lee, dated May 23, and one from him in reply, dated
29th May, containing an order to General Pemberton relating to the
defense of Charleston. I most respectfully call your -attention to these
letters.*
It strikes me that the defense of Charleston is now of the last im
portance to the Confederacy, and in our very full interview yesterday
I took the liberty of urging that Fort Sumter was the key to the har
bor, and in fact was almost absolutely essential to enable the South to
have any communication with the foreign world. I called your atten
tion most respectfully to the state of the garrison and the great im
portance of securing an able and experienced commander for it.
The recent difficulties amongst the field officers and the death of the
two senior ones in command, and the probable suspension, at least for
a time, of the other field officer from actual command, makes it of the
deepest interest to the State and to the country at large to have an
artillery officer of high rank immediately appointed to the command of
that fortress. You will see by mine, inclosed, of the 23d of May, that
I called the attention of General Lee to the situation of the garrison then,
and I trust you will excuse me now for again urging upon your atten
tion at this time the same views. The State feels a deep interest in it,
and the Executive Council recently unanimously passed a resolution
requesting me to address you on this subject. In addition to all I said
yesterday I now desire to state these views more specifically in writing.
I am rejoiced to see you here again, as there is no general who could
have been selected to whom South Carolina would look with more con
fidence for her defense than to yourself. Our whole coast involves the
most complicated difficulties in defense, and all the highest range of
science in war is required to make that defense successful.
Feeling the greatest confidence in your abilities, and well knowing
that this position is eminently suited to your peculiar talents and scien
tific knowledge, it affords me the greatest pleasure to co-operate with
you in anything that you may suggest, and to offer you all the resources
of the State that I may be able to command.
I have the honor to be, with the highest consideration of esteem, your
most obedient servant,
F. W. PICKENS.
* See pp. 515, 524.
614 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP.
HDQRS. PROV. FORCES, DEPT. OF EAST AND MID. FLA.,
Tallahassee, September 29, 18G2.
General S. COOPER,
Adjutant and Inspector General :
GENERAL, : As the winter approaches more troops will be required in
this department. I have now but nine companies of infantry, five com
panies of Partisan Hangers, one regiment of cavalry, and two companies
of light artillery in service.
The troops are stationed from Tampa Bay to Saint Andrew's Bay on
the Gulf, and from Fernandina to Saint John's Kiver on the Atlantic,
covering exposed points on the coast.
There are not enough of troops at any one point to prevent invasion
by even a moderate force. During the summer mouths no apprehen
sion of invasion was entertained ; but as the*winter approaches we may
expect incursions upon our coasts, and perhaps a penetration into the
country for purposes of plunder, if not to make a permanent lodgment
for purposes of subjugation,
More troops will be needed in this neighborhood to prevent a sudden
raid upon the capital, and more will be needed on the Saint John's
Kiver to support the batteries now holding the enemy in check.
We have recovered within two or three weeks a river navigable for
some 200 miles, which has heretofore been in full possession of the
enemy.
I have the honor respectfully to request that two regiments of infantry
be ordered to report for duty in this department as soon as they can
possibly be spared from other points.
I have the honor to be, general, with great respect, your obedient
servant,
JOS. FINEGAN,
Brigadier -General, Commanding.
HDQRS. DEPT. OF SOUTH CAROLINA AND GEORGIA,
Charleston, S. C., September 30, 1862.
Capt. W. H. ECHOLS, Chief Engineer:
CAPTAIN : The general commanding directs that you take immediate
measures to have the following works constructed, namely : Such trav
erses in Forts Sumter and Moultrie as the commanding officers thereof
may severally determine after consultation with the chief engineer and
chief of artillery.
Brick traverse and closing of the necessary embrasure for the thor
ough protection of the condenser at Fort Sumter.
Forts Sumter and Moultrie will be supplied with sufficient palmetto
logs and sand bags for possible contingent purposes.
Respectfully, captain, your obedient servant,
TUOMAS JOED AN,
Chief of Staff.
HDQRS. DEPT. OF SOUTH CAROLINA AND GEORGIA,
Charleston, S. C., September 30, 1SG2.
General S. COOPER,,
Adjutant and Inspector General, Richmond, Va. :
GENERAL : In view of the probable inefficiency of the boom to prevent
CHAP. XXVI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. CONFEDERATE.
615
a fleet of steamers from passing the works defending tbe entrance of
this harbor, it becomes as urgent as it is indispensable to increase the
heavy armament of the works intended to command the anchorage iu
the harbor and the entrances into the Ashley and Cooper Rivers to the
utmost possible extent j hence I have the honor to request that I may
be furnished as soon as practicable, in addition to calls for ordnance
already made on the Department, with twenty 10-inch columbiads, five
banded rifled 42-pounders, and five banded rifled 32-pounders, or fifteen
of the first quality, ten of the second, and five or more of the third. A
greater number of each quality could be advantageously located if they
could be obtained.
I shall submit within a day or two, for the information of the War
Department, a detailed report showing the exact defensive condition of
this harbor at present and the extreme necessity for the additional
heavy ordnance now called for.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
G. T. BEAUREGARD,
Generalj Commanding.
Abstract from Monthly 7?c/?/rn of the forces oflhc Department of South Carolina and Georgia,
commanded by General G. T. Ueauw yard, for September,
Command.
Present for duty.
Aggregate present.
Aggregate present,
and absent.
Infantry.
Cavalry.
Artillery.
1
1
Officers.
d
a
Officers.
d
6
Military District of Georgia
226
328
57
33
3,226
5,240
516
78
19
5
62
1,308
414
990
51
52
6
7
884
683
150
125
8,371
8,8:7
1, 535
2, 182
10, 828
11, 383
1,998
2,884
First &L3itary District of South Carolina.
Second Military District of South Carolina
Third Military Distiict of South Carolina
644
9,820
1G4
2,844
116
1,848
20,915
27, 093
Abstract from Monthly Return of the District of East and Middle Florida, Brig. Gen.
Joseph Finegun, commanding, for /September, 18o2.
Command.
Present for
duty.
Aggregate present.
1-
8
Officera.
S3
V
a
First Special Bittalion Florida Infantry
18
10
15
20
4
269
170
293
422
151
383
212
422
544
105
587
261
509
6*1
330
Two batteries of artillery .
Total
67
1,305
1,726
2,308
*No reports from Harrison's, Kou's. and Dickison's companies.
HDQRS. DEPT. OF SOUTH CAROLINA AND GEORGIA,
Charleston, 8. 0., October 1, 18G2.
Capt. W. H. ECHOLS, Chief Engineer :
I am instructed to furnish you with the following extract from a com-
616 COASTS OF S. C., GA , AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVI.
mnnication of date of 30th ultimo from Dr. J. E. Cheves, in charge of
outer obstructions :
In consequence of the ->;rr at deficiency of iron, and the large demand for iron in
mooring the boom, it is proposed, at the suggestion of His Excellency Governor Pickens,
to use granite rocks of three or four tons' weight, there being much of this at Colum
bia, and the transportation of the same being represented to me as quite practicable.
It is the wish of the general commanding to be informed of your
views as to the feasibility at this time of getting the granite here and
in position.
Eespectfully, your obedient servant,
THOMAS JORDAN,
Chief of Staff.
HDQRS. DEPT. OF SOUTH CAROLINA AND GEORGIA,
Charleston, S. C., October 2, 1862.
General S. COOPEK,
Adjutant and Inspector General C. 8. Army, Richmond. Va. :
GENERAL: Should the Ordnance Department be otherwise unable to
furnish me with the heavy guns essential for the proper armament of
the defensive works in Charleston Harbor, I beg leave to suggest that
some of those now in position at Oven Bluff, on the Tombigbee Eiver,
and at Choctaw Bluff, on the Alabama Eiver, may be prudently re
moved and sent here, unless they shall be necessary for the immediate
defense of Mobile Bay. They cannot be required in their present posi
tions until those rivers shall have been again swollen — that is, in the
latter part of the coming winter or early part of the following spring,
by which time other guns may be provided in their stead.
I cannot place before the War Department in too strong language
the vital importance — if this harbor is to be retained to us — of increas
ing the armament of heavy guns to the greatest possible extent as soon
as practicable in all possible ways.
Eespectfully, your obedient servant,
G. T. BEAUEEGAED,
General. Commanding.
CHARLESTON, S. C., October 2, 1862.
General S. COOPER, Adjutant- General :
I would be pleased to have General Eipley assigned to my command
for defense of Charleston.
G. T. BEAUEEGAED,
General, Commanding.
EICHMOND, VA., October 3, 1862.
General BEAUREGARD, Charleston, 8. C. :
General Finegan telegraphs from Lake City, Fla., that 3.000 Federals
are lauding at Mayport Mills, at the mouth of the Saint John's Uiver.
He has repulsed three naval attacks on the batteries at Saint John's
Bluff, 18 or 20 miles from Mayport, but is not strong enough to resist
the threatened laud attack. He says that two regiments of infantry
from the coast of Georgia sent to him for a few days will save the Saiut
CHAP. XXVI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. — CONFEDERATE. 617
John's Eiver and perhaps East Florida. Send the assistance required
as speedily as possible.
Answer by telegraph.
G. W. RANDOLPH,
Secretary of War.
CHARLESTON, S. 0., October 3. 1862.
Hon. GEORGE W. RANDOLPH :
Two regiments ordered to General Finegan will be sent from Georgia,
the War Department assuming the responsibility of detaching them at
this time from Georgia, where the troops are already prostrated by dis
ease, as General Mercer reports.
G. T. BEAUREGARD,
General, Commanding.
HDQRS. DEPT. OF SOUTH CAROLINA AND GEORGIA,
Charleston, 8. C., October 3, 1862.
Capt. W. H. ECHOLS,
Chief Engineer, &c., Charleston, 8. C.:
SIR: You will order Capt. F. D. Lee, of the Engineers, to advise with
Dr. Cheves as to the best method of modifying the construction of the
floating boom, so as to dispense with the railroad iron bars suspended
from the timber floats, and to connect the latter directly with the iron
links or chain. This system of construction to be used as soon as found
practicable.
It would be of great advantage to have the wooden sections of the
boom to present their side angle to the force of the current. You will
continue to throw debris around Fort Ripley until its foundations shall
be covered to about 1 foot above high- water mark, with a boom of 20
feet alongside of that work, and from thence with a natural slope to
the bottom of the bay. You will have laid a telegraphic wire from the
battery on the Stono near Church Flats to Rautowles Station, where an
operator will have to be located.
I am informed that a part of the telegraphic wire required can be
obtained from James Island, where it is not now in use.
Respectfully, your obedient servant,
G, T. BEAUREGARD,
General, Commanding.
HDQRS. DEPT. OF SOUTH CAROLINA AND GEORGIA,
Charleston, S. C\, October 3, 1802.
Gov. FRANCIS W. PICKENS, South Carolina:
DEAR SIR: To be properly prepared for any emergency it is my
opinion that there should be a timely, that is immediate, preparation,
at one or more places outside of the limits of this city, of buildings
and sheds and of provision depots for the reception of the women and
children in the event of a bombardment.
As I understand it is the wish of all, people and Government, that
the city shall be defended to the last extremity ; hence I desire to be in
all respects ready to make its defense equal to that o1 Saragossa. To
that end I ask your co-operation in providing proper and ample places
618 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVI.
of refuge for all non-combatants when it shall be necessary for that class
to leave their homes; otherwise my embarrassments must be.great.
Respectfully, your obedient servant,
G. T. BEAUREGARD,
General, Commanding.
HDQRS. DEPT. OF SOUTH CAROLINA AND GEORGIA,
Charleston, S. C., October 3, 18C2.
Capt. W. II. ECHOLS, Chief Engineer :
The commanding general instructs me to direct as follows:
You will examine Ilobcaw Bluffs, on Cooper River, in vicinity of
Mount Pleasant, to determine whether or not it will afford a good posi
tion for a battery of five or six guns to command the channel of the
river. It must also be ascertained whether that channel can be effect
ively obstructed with the means and appliances at our disposition. You
wilf likewise make a thorough examination of both sides of Stouo River,
from Church Flats to Wappoo Cut, to ascertain whether the enemy can
effect a passage of the Stono between those two points to turn the works
in that vicinity.
Respectfully, your obedient servant,
THOMAS JORDAN,
Chief of Staff.
CHARLESTON, S. C., October 3, 18G2.
Hon. W. PORCHER MILES,
Member of Congress, Richmond, Va. :
MY DEAR COLONEL : Your favor of the 30th instant has just been
received. I thank you for your exertions relative to those heavy guns
ordered or called for for the new batteries on west end of Sullivan's
Island. I have lately made another call on the War Department for
thirty or more heavy guns (10-inch and rilled 42-pounders and 32-
pounders) as " urgent and indispensable," having reasons to believe
that the boom now being laid might not answer in checking the pas
sage of three or four iron-clads moving in echelon rapidly against it ;
hence the necessity of more heavy guns.
I will mail to-day or to-morrow my report of inspection of the harbor
defenses of Charleston and Savannah, the "conclusions" of a board of
oflicers (naval and army) relative to the present condition of those de
fenses of Charleston Harbor, and the estimate of Major- General Pem-
bertou of the forces required for the defense of the Department of South
Carolina and Georgia, which I have approved as the minimum which
might be required, in my opinion, without having yet visited, however,
all the districts of this department. I would be much pleased if the
Department could show you those reports. Coming here so late in the
season I have^thought it advisable to have on record all the facts therein
contained. General Pembertoit seems to have done a great deal of
work here, and he appears to have been very active, zealous, and intel
ligent. 1 regretted his leaving here, for with his knowledge of the
country he could have been of muck use to me, but he did not wish to
remain with a restricted commas. d.
I shall be pleased to have Brigadier- General Ripley for the command
CHAP. XXVI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. CONFEDERATE. 619
of the harbor defenses of this city; his presence is the more necessary,
I believe, since the lamented d<*ath of Col. W. Ransom Calhonn.
I am endeavoring to introduce gradually my system of managing
men and things, and hope, if the enemy will give me time, to be pre
pared to give him a very warm reception whenever he will come here.
With my kind regards to all inquiring friends, I remain, in haste,
yours, very truly,
G. T. BEAUEEGAED.
IlDQRS. DEPT. OF SOUTH CAROLINA AND GEORGIA,
Charleston, S. 0., October 3, 1862.
General S. COOPER,
Adjutant and Inspector General C. S. Army, Richmond, Va. :
GENERAL : I have to submit, for the information of the War Depart
ment, the following report of my inspection of the works for the de
fense of the position of Charleston :
Accompanied by Mnj or- General Pembcrton, Brigadier-General Jor
dan, my chief of stall', Colonel Gonzales, chief of artillery, and Lieut.
Col. George Lay, on a tour of inspection, under orders of the War De
partment, on the IGth of September 1 proceeded to inspect the harbor
defenses, beginning with four new sand batteries in barbette, near the
west end of Sullivan's Island, bearing on and commanding the floating
boom under construction across the channel thence to Fort Sumter.
Those batteries are not finished, but two guns, 10-inch columbiads, were
in position, one of which only being ready for service and the maga
zines not yet built. The boom is composed of railroad iron, strongly
linked together with heavy iron links and bands, protected and buoyed
by spars of timber of the same length with the bars of iron and banded
closely together with iron. The bars are suspended 4 feet under water,
and the whole structure is anchored every sixth section with an anchor.
About one-fourth of this boom is laid. I am informed that it has been
tested by running Against it a heavily loaded vessel towed by a steam
boat; this test it resisted, parting the tow-line, a 10-inch hawser. It
was also proposed to lay another line about 100 yards in rear of the one
under construction if sufficient time is allowed and enough chains and
anchors can be procured. In addition a rope obstruction has been pre
pared to place in advance of the wooden and iron boom for the purpose
of entangling the enemy's propellers while under fire of our heavy guns
in the adjacent forts and batteries.
It is proper for me to notice that since my inspection the plan of the
boom was found to be defective in at least one particular: The great
length of it made it unable to bear the pressure of the tide, and the boom
parted in several places. This, it is hoped by the projector, may be
remedied by breaking the continuous character of the barrier and lay
ing it by sections, and on that plan it is now being carried on. Further
modifications will probably be made, in which connection see so much
of the paper herewith, marked A, as relates to this boom.
The armament of ihe four new sand batteries is to consist, as planned,
of seven 10 and one 8 inch columbaids and two 42-ponndeY rifled guns.
Fort Sumter has thirty-eight heavy guns above the caliber of 32-pound-
ers and Fort Moultrie nine bearing at once on the obstructions. There
will be also two strong iron-clad gunboats, each armed with four guns,
to give important, indeed vital, assistance. These I am advised will be
6*20 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVt
completed before the 15th instant, and could even now yield some aid
in an emergency. I regard them as absolutely indispensable to the suc
cessful defense of the harbor.
The Neck Battery on Morris Island was then visited, which was found
incomplete, wanting at least two weeks' work to finish it according to
plan, and needing a closed gorge to secure against surprise. It was
erected to defend that approach to Fort Sumter. In addition a few rifled
guns ought to be placed to bear on the Main Channel.
Subsequently 1 inspected a small work, Fort Kipley, DOW under con
struction on cribs in the bay, about midway between Fort Johnson and
Castle Pinckney. It is nearly ready for its armanent, five heavy guns
in barbette, but must be protected outside to the high-water mark by
rubbish before it can be relied on. A series of similar smaller works
erected in the shallow water nearer to the mouth of the harbor would
materially add to the strength of our defenses.
I did not visit Castle Pinckney, the armament of which is nine 24-
pounders and one 24-pounder rifled guns. I am well acquainted with
this work and regard it as nearly worthless at this juncture.
On the 17th of September, in company with Major-General Pember-
ton, Colonel Gonzales, and Lieutenant-Colonel Lay, I inspected the de
fensive lines on James Island from the Wappoo to Mellich amp's, a dis
tance of about 3 miles. These lines consist of a system of forts, redoubts,
redans, crSmailleres, not very properly arranged and located, with the
exception of Fort Pemberton, on the Stono, and some of the redoubts;
and in my opinion a simpler system, one requiring a smaller force to
hold and defend, might have been originally devised with advantage.
However, this line ought to serve our purpose with a proper force of
about 3 men for every 2 yards of development. Each redoubt and
redan has at least one heavy gun in position. That part of the lines be
tween Dill's Creek and the Wappoo will be completed in two weeks.
Fort Pemberton is a strong work, and has an armament of twenty
guns of various calibers. There are two batteries on the Ashley River
and the entrances of Dill's and Wappoo Creeks, but for want of guns the
works are without armaments, except the battery at Lawton's, which
has four 32-pounders in position, which, however, are of little use against
any probable attack.
On the 18th of Septe.mber, accompanied as on the previous day, I
inspected Forts Sumter and Moultrie, which were found in fine order
and condition, considering the repairs in progress at the latter work.
The armament of Moultrie consists of thirty-eight guns of various cali
bers from 24-pomiders to 8-iuch Columbians, with a gariisou of some 300
effective men. The armament of Sumter consists of seventy-nine guns
of all calibers from 32-pounders 10-inch columbiads and seVen 10-inch
mortars. It has a garrison of about 350 effective men. The barracks
are being cut down to protect them from the fire of the enemy.
The small steam-engine for making fresh water is in an exposed con
dition, and should either be removed to a safer place or be properly pro
tected; the latter will probably be most convenient.
Battery Beauregard, across Sullivan's Island, in advance of Fort
Moultrie, to defend the approach from the east, is armed with five
guns. The wor* at the eastern extremity of the island, placed to defend
the interior approach by water to the rear and west of Long Island, is
a redoubt armed with eight guns (two 32-poundcrs and six small guns).
I am informed by General Pemberton that all these works are suffi
ciently garrisoned.
My conclusions are as follows: That when the works contemplated
CHAF. XXVI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. CONFEDERATE. G21
and in progress for the defense of this harbor, especially when the obstruc
tions ami iron-clad gunboats shall have been completed and are prop
erly armed with guns of the heaviest caliber, the enemy's fleet will find
it extremely difficult to penetrate sufficiently within the harbor to in
jure or reduce the city; but until these works are finished, armed as
indicated and properly garrisoned, the city cannot be regarded as
protected.
Accompanied as on the previous day, on the 19th of September I
examined the works at Secessiouville, which are irregular and of poor
construction. A force of some 200 men was still at work increasing
and strengthening them. The position is naturally strong, being sur
rounded by low marshes and a wide creek, except on one side, where
there is a very narrow strip of level ground, along which the Aboli
tionists made their attack, which was a surprise, when they were de
feated by one-fifth of their numbers. I do not see the necessity or
advantage of holding in force this advanced position. A strong picket
would be sufficient. The armament of this work consists of two 8-inch
naval guns? one 18-pounder howitzer, six 32-pounders, one 32-pounder
rifled gun, two 24-pounder rifled guns, and two 10-inch mortars.
All of which is respectfully submitted with the following papers,
namely :
Minutes of a conference with Captain Ingraham, commanding Con
federate States naval forces, Charleston Station, marked A.
Estimate of the forces regarded by Major-Geueral Pemberton, my
predecessor in command, as essential for the effective defense of the
most important points in the department, marked B.*
Tabular statement of the troops in the department and their several
positions, marked C.
I have the honor to be, general, your obedient servant,
G. T. BEAUREGAKD,
General, Commanding.
[Inclosure A.]
CHARLESTON, September 29, 1862.
In the office of the general commanding the department, Charleston,
September 29, 1862, at a conference to which General Beauregard had
invited the following officers: Commodore D. K. Ingrah.im and Capt.
J. R. Tucker, C. S. Navy, Brig. Gens. S. R. Gist and Thomas Jordan,
Cols. G. W. Lay, inspector-general, and A. J. Gonzales, chief of artillery,
and Capt. F. D. Lee, Engineers, Capt. W. H. Echols, chief engineer,
being absent from the city.
The general commanding proposed for discussion a number of queries
prepared by himself in relation to the problem of the defense of the har
bor, forts, and city of Charleston against the impending naval attack
by a formidable iron-clad fleet.
It was agreed to separate the consideration of these questions so as
to discuss :
1st. The entrance, i. e., all outside of a line drawn from Fort Moultrie
to Fort Sumter, thence to Cummings Point, including also outside of
this line Battery Beauregard, at the entrance of the Maffit Channel.
2d. The gorge, i. e., the section included between that line and the
line of a floating boom from Fort Sumter to the west end of Sullivan's
Island.
* Copy of Pembertou to Beauregard, September 24, sec p. 609,
622 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVL
3d. The harbor, comprising all of the bay within the second line.
4th. The city, its flanks and rear.
In the discussion no guns were classed as heavy if not above the
caliber of M2 except rifled >2-pounders.
The following1 conclusions were arrived at:
1st. The existing defenses of the entrance are Beauregard Battery
with two heavy guns, Fort Moultrie witli nine, the sand batteries on
the west end of Sullivan's Island with but four yet mounted, and Fort
Suinter with thirty eight. Of the gorge say nine guns in Fort Moul
trie. thirty-two in Fort Sumter (not including seven 10-inch mortars),
and as yet but four in the sand batteries. Of the harbor say fourteen
guns of Fort Sumter and the four guns in the new sand batteries.
Fort Johnson has one rifled 32-pounder, but it is not banded and is
unsafe.
For the city defense some batteries have been arranged and com
menced, but heavy guns are neither mounted nor disposable.
2d. The floating boom is incomplete.
3d. It is no barrier now.
4th. The boom, even if complete on the present plan, might be forced,
although it would serve as a check, but it cannot be depended upon if
attacked by the enemy on a scale commensurate with his means. It has
already been broken in parts by the force of tides and currents. On ac
count of its having to bear this strain of the depth of water (up to 70 feet)
and the difficulties of theauchorage ground, of the limited means at dispo
sal in anchors and chains, the indifferent quality of the iron, and the defi
cient buoyancy of the whole (the pine being green and sappy and get
ting heavier with time), a modification of the construction is required.
5th. We have no means or material at hand for the construction of a
better boom. It is thought, however, that the one now under construc
tion will be materially improved by discarding the continuous chain of
bar and railroad iron and links and by linking together the logs, as they
are now arranged, by short chains, so as to make a continuous chain of
each section of the spars. There will be a saving of. iron and greater
buoyancy attained by this.
Gth. A rope barrier has been devised and constructed to place in ad
vance of the spar boom, but has not been placed in position, as the rope
will rot in the water, and some anchors are still wanting. They are being
searched for.
7th. Iron-clads in forcing the harbor must pass the gorge, or throat,
everywhere within point-blank range of our batteries, and must conse
quently be in great danger of damage from the concentration of the
metal that can be brought to bear. upon them, especially from the ele
vation of Fort Sumter.
NOTE.— Distance between Sumter and Moultrie 1,775 yards; air line
of obstructions 1,550 yards.
8th. The plan of naval attack apparently best for the enemy would be
to dash with as many iron-clads as he can command, say fifteen or
twenty, past the batteries and forts, without halting to engage or reduce
them. Commodore Ingraham thinks they will make an attack in that
way by daylight.
9th. Iron -clad vessels cannot approach or pass so close to the walls of
Fort Sumter as not to be within the reach of the barbette guns. Those
guns may bo depressed to strike the water at a distance of 154 yards of
the walls. Vessels of the probable draught of gunboats cannot be
brought closer than -00 yards.
10 Lh. After forcing the passage of the forts and barriers and reaching
CHAF. XIYI.J CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. CONFEDERATE. 623
tbe inner harbor gunboats may lay within GOO yards of city face of
Fort Sumterexposed to tire of about fifteen guns. The magazines would
be unsafe as now situated, or until counter-fort shall have been extended
sufficiently along city face.
llth. If iron-clads pass the forts and batteries at the gorge, or throat,
of harbor then the guns at Forts Eipley and Johnson and Castle Pinck-
ney would be of no avail to check them. In consequence of the exposed
condition of the foundations of Fort Eipley and the general weakness
of Castle Pinckney it would not be advisable to diminish the armament
of the exterior works to arm them, and this necessarily decides that Fort
Johnson cannot be armed at the expense of the works covering throat
of harbor. Fort Johnson must be held, however, to prevent the pos
sibility of being carried by the enemy by land attack and the establish
ment there of breaching batteries against Fort Sumter. The batteries
at White Point Garden, Half Moon, and Lawton's and McLeod's Bat
teries for the same reasons cannot be prudently armed at present with
heavy guns.
12th. The line of pilings near Fort Eipley is of no service and is rap
idly falling to pieces.
13th. The city could not be saved from bombardment by any number
of batteries aloug the city fronts if the enemy reach the interior harbor
with iron-clads. It can then only be defended by infantry against land
ing of troops.
14th. We have no resources at present for the construction of efficient
obstructions at the mouths of or in the Ashley and Cooper Rivers, and
we have no guns disposable for the armament of interior harbor de
fenses.
15th. Should gunboats effect a lodgment in the harbor and in the Stono
the troops and armament on James Island may be withdrawn, espe
cially afier the construction of a bridge and road across James Island
Creek, about midway the island, near Holmes' house. From the west
ern, part can be withdrawu under cover of Fort Pemberton. McLeod's
Battery is intended to protect the mouth of Wappoo Creek, and Law-
ton's Battery the mouth of James Island Creek, when armed.
10th. With the harbor in the hands of the enemy the city could still be
held by an infantry force by the erection of strong barricades and with
an arrangement of traverses in the streets. The line of works on the
Neck could also be held against a naval and land attack by the con
struction of frequent and long traverses. The approaches thereto are
covered by woods in front. Possibly a more advanced position might
have been better, though also protected by the woods, but so much has
been done that it were best to retain the line, remedying the defects by
long and numerous traverses.
Two iron-clad gunboats, carrying four guns each, will be ready for
service in two weeks as an important auxiliary to the works defending
all parts of the harbor, and in that connection it will be important to
secure for them a harbor of refuge and a general depot up the Cooper
Eiver as soon as the guns for its protection can be secured.
G. T. BEAUEEGAED,
General, Commanding.
D. K INGEAHAM,
Commodore, Comdg. C. S. Naval Forces, Charleston Harbor.
624 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. ICiixr. XXVI.
[Inclosure C.]
Position of troops in the Department of South Carolina and Georgia, commanded by General
G. T. Beau-regard, September 25, 1862.
FIRST DISTRICT, COMMANDED BY BRIG. GEN. S. R. GIST.
Station.
Command.
Number of
companies.
Remarks.
-
Charleston Battalion
6
2
10
1
1
3
1
6
9
1
9
5
2
3
10
10
7
10
4
1
1
1
2
3
4
2
5
4
2
1
1
1
Infantry.
Beach Inlet.
New batteries.
Beauregard and En
filade Battery.
Secessionville.
Do.
Fort Johnson and
lines.
Lines.
Near Fort Pemberton.
Fort Pemberton.
Belonging to 1st South
Carolina Artillery.
Legarti's place.
Do.
McClellanville.
Do.
Charleston Harbor
Morris Island
46th Regiment Georgia Volunteers
Palmetto Guards and siege gnns
Nelson (Virginia) Light Artillery, battery.
2cl Battalion Georgia Cavalry
Garrison Castle Pinckney
Fort Sumter, 1 st South Ca olina Artillery . .
21st Regiment South Carolina Volunteers.
Matthewes Artillery, Captain Bonneau...
2t)th Regiment South Carolina Volunteers.
Garrison Fort Moultrie, 1st South Caro
lina Volunteers.
Sullivan's Island
1st South Carolina Artillery
13th Georgia Battalion
McClellanville
Near Georgetown
Summerville ....
24th Regiineut South Carolina Volunteers.
1st South Carolina Artillery -
Palmetto Battalion Light Artillery
25th South Carolina Volunteers
Lucas' battalion and oue company regulars.
La Fayetto Artillery
Preston's li^ht artillery
One company Second Battalion Georgia
Cavalry.
Two companies South Carolina Cavalry . . .
Major Byrd's command, infantry
Two cavalry companies
One field battery
Two 24-poundfrs in position.
Captain Ferguson's artillery
20th South Carolina Volunteers
Dewees' Inlet
Pee Dee Bridge . . .
21st South Carolina Volunteers
SECOND DISTRICT, COMMANDED BY BRIG. GEN. J. HAGOOD.
Adams Run • Washington Artillery
1
Marion Artillery . .
1
Marion Caval ry
2
Stono Scouts aggregate 19
1
Smith's battalion South Carolina Volun
teers ordered to be consolidated with
three companies of Major Byrd's bat
talion to form a regiment.
7th South Carolina Battalion
16th Regiment South Carolina Volunteers.
7
7
10
i
THIRD DISTRICT, COMMANDED BY COL. W. S. WALKER.
Hardeeville , llth South Carolina Volunteers !
I 2d Battalion Soul h Carolina Cavalry I
Palmetto Battalion Light Aitillery
1st Battalion Sharpshooters
2d South Carolina Cavalry
2d Battalion Sharpshooters
Beaufort Light Artillery
1st Battalion South Carolina Cavalry
Rutledge Mounted Riflemen
Charleston Light Dragoons
Partisan Rangers
6th Battalion South Carolina Cavalry
Grahamville &Hardecvilh
McPhersonville . .
Green Pond . . . . %.
CHAP. XXtl] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. — CONFEDERATE. 625
Position of troops in the Department of South Carolina and Georgia — Continued.
DISTRICT OF GEORGIA, COMMANDED BY BRIG. GEN. H. "W. MERCER.
Station.
Command.
Number of
companies.
Remarks.
Skidaway Shell road
Terrell Li^ht Artillery
1
1
1
1
3
2
1
8
1
1
6
1
1
10
1
1
1
1
2
1
.11
9
1
10
1
1
1
1
6
4
1
18
5
10
Guarding stores and
prisoners.
No. 3, Central Railroad. . . .
Charleston and Savannah
Railroad Bridge.
Near city of Savannah -.
Savannah
Miijor Milieu'* Partisans
Chestatoc Li"'ht Artillery
Company E, 47th Georgia Regiment
Battalion Savannah Volunteers Guard...
White's Partisans
Effinghaiu Hus-'ars
White Bluff and on White
Bluff road.
Coffee Bluff
Company' A, 2d Battalion Georgia Cavalry.
Chatham Artillery
4th Louisiana Battalion
Randolph Mounted Rangers
Near Thunderbolt :
Company D, Light Battery Georgia Regu
lars.
30th Georgia Volunteers ... .
Liberty Independent Troop
Ogletborpe Barracks
Tatnall Guards
Genesis Point
Martin's light battery
Altamaha Bridge
Hardwick Mounted Rifles
Garrison at Genesis Point
Company I 95th Georgia Regiment
Savannah River batteries. .
On Middle Ground road,
near Battery Harrison.
Near Beaulieu
Companies A, G, and I, 29th Georgia Vol
unteers; Company E, 25th Georgia Vol
unteers ; Company K, 32d Georgia Vol
unteers; Company B, 47th Georgia Vol
unteers, and five unattached companies.
32d Georgia Regiment
Banks' Partisans
54th Georgia Volunteers
Joe Thompson artillery
Liberty Guards
Darion .
Lamar Ran ""ers ...
Mdntosh Cavalry
South of Altamaha
Battalion cavalry
Near Little Ogeechee River,
12 miles from city
Carston's Bluff
C Battalion Sharpshooters
/ Columbus Artillery
Eight companies 25th Georgia Regiment ;
seven companies 29th Georgia Regment;
three unattached companies.
10th Georgia Battalion
Macon, Ga.
59th Georgia Regiment ....'.
RECAPITULATION.
Number of companies First District, Brigadier-General Gist 133
Number of companies Second District, Brigadier-General Hagood 29
Number of companies Third District, Colonel Walker 40
Number of companies District of Georgia, Brigadier- General Mercer 124
Total number of companies 1 326
HDQRS. THIRD MILITARY DIST. OF SOUTH CAROLINA,
McPhersonvillc, October 3, 1862.
Brig. Gen. THOMAS JORDAN:
SIR: I have the honor to inclose a letter* written to Major-General
Peinberton on the subject of an increase of force in this district, which is
Not found.
40 R R — VOL XIV
626 COASTS OF 8. C., 01., AND MID. AKD EAST FLA. [CHAP,
as applicable now as then. ID consequence of the evident weakness of
the points to which I referred General Pemberton ordered one battalion
of sharpshooters to Graham ville and one to this post. He informed me
that this was the only re-enforcement he could spare.
Since then my force has been reduced by two pieces of artillery taken
from Hardeeville and the battalion of sharpshooters from this post.
The battery of Capt. Stephen Elliott has consisted of only four effective
pieces, all of which I considered necessary at this point. The seven
companies infantry posted at Hardeeville are part of the flank and
rear defense of Savannah, and could not with safety be diminished,
especially as the companies are much reduced. When the enemy make
the attempt to cut the railroad in my opinion it will be at some point
between Grahamville and the bridge over the Gombahee River.
It is the line most accessible and farthest removed from succor.
There is reported by my pickets an increase of the force of the enemy
on the south side of Coosaw River. On account of the peculiar topgg-
raphy of the country between the Goosawhatchie and Gombahee
Rivers the cavalry will have to operate on foot to avail themselves of
the natural and artificial positions of defense. There are very few
points at which it would be practicable or advisable to operate mounted.
1 should have bayonets for a stubborn resistance. I would inform the
general commanding that I have had a secure boat bridge built over
the Salkehatchie River 5 miles north of where the railroad crosses.
This gives me a safe line of retreat and concentration toward Walter-
borough should the railroad be taken.
I judge that the force west of Broad River should serve for the flank
defense of Savannah. I am informed that the only practicable point
for crossing the Coosawhatchie River north of the railroad is 18 miles
north, at Hickory Hill post-office. There is a crossing practicable for
cavalry and infantry at the point where the Goosawhatchie and Tuli-
finy separate ; a crossing lower down practicable for infantry only.
I will send you in a short time a connected sketch of the lines of de
fense and the detached works thrown up in this district. I would ob
serve, however, that these works were made for the occupation of 10,000
men, which was the force assembled in this district during last winter,
with artillery in proportion.
The change of the policy of the Government in abandoning the de
fense of the coast by heavy artillery and reducing the force to a corps
of observation (composed largely of cavalry) rather than defense ren
ders a large part of these works comparatively useless. They can be
used for retarding the advance of the enemy, but the final stand should
be nearer the line of the railroad, to give time for re-enforcements to
arrive. In that connection I need not call your attention to my de
pendence upon the rapid transmission of troops in case of an attack in
force.
My desire is to inform the general commanding fully on all matters
of interest to the defense of this district. I shall take pleasure in carry
ing out any instructions he may think proper to send.
I respectfully forward the instructions furnished to the pickets and
to the commanding officer at Hardeeville.
I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
W. S. WALKER,
Colonel, Commanding.
XiVt.j CORRESPONDENCE, Etc. — CONFEDERATE.
62?
i
11
I
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It flit
SS „ 53 £ i
S« 01 CO
10 d»y«, 100 h»nd.
s .
£
c» kO O-l t— i-H O t^- ' !>•
I" 2 8 S 5 |rt
* i
f" - : - i | |V
Condition.
:; H-
° ° ,2 3 ,i .5 ° ° .2 .2 £ °° e
•a «e "3.S Aifl*~ ^ "P. 's P, rc1^ *c
I ! g a 1 a • i § a g i
: : oPoP : : o P o :
do
Unfinished
•ta
Two 8-inch shell, three 9-inch
shell, five 8-iuch sea-coast, six
24s, three 24-poiinder howitzers,
five 10-inch, twelve 8-inch, thirty-
one 32s, four 32s rifled, seven
42s, six 42s rifled, seven 10-inch
mortars.
One 8-inch, one 8-inch shell, one
32 rifle, one 32, two 24s.
TY>iit> lM.in,>V>
Two 32-inch, one 24, four 12s, one
howitzer.
Two 8-iuch shell, one 32 rifled,
three 32s, one 24 rifled.
One 32 rifled, one 8-inch, two 32s . .
» - t
1 is I i 11 «? -
iiiii ijtf^.i
j^l!! i 5* I! I ,
life"*! ^'S «*? ^ <§
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Saint Andrew's Parieh, Wilkes' place. . .
|1 1 1
'ZS 5 £
Ifl A £
02
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4
i i i ! i ': 5 £
J « : i : : « ^
ll r 1 -g S
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a i«|fi|^i
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1 fij j 1 1 I i
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cnoQ^*^^ ® .S M M
^4i®^o ° PH « « g? S
Illll | 1 I 1 II i
OOOOW P PH cc <n HS^ H
Works.
: : : v
:
:J i : i | -1 -
Reed Battery
Batteries connected bv covered
! '. ! '°
;
i| ; • : 1 ••§ 's
;
•oi : : : "2 s-3 P=
\\ ft !%! If. en
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1 11 1 5 3 |f«|3 | 111 1 ?sl?
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628 COASTS OF s. c., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP.
J
CHJLP. XXVI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. CONFEDERATE. G29
HDQRS. DEPT. OF SOUTH CAROLINA AND GEORGIA,
Charleston, 8. C.. October 4, 1802.
Capt. W. II. ECHOLS, Chief Engineer :
CAPTAIN: The commanding general directs the construction of the
following works with as little delay as practicable, namely :
1st. Extend the right flank of battery at Rantowles Station to the
marsh cut, and place an abatis in the woods on the left flank of that
work.
2d. Construct a tete-de-pont and battery at the new bridge.
Prepare, in connection with Captain Lee, and submit a plan and re
port of the best manner of defending the streets and squares oi the city
of Charleston (city proper) from an attack by the enemy under cover
of his gunboats which may have reached the inner harbor; also for the
erection of bomb-proof shelters in the center of city and near its upper
limits for a garrison of about 8,000 men.
An ample provision must he made of crowbars, spades, pick-axes,
and blasting powder, to be held available for an extreme defense of this
city.
Respectfully, captain, your obedient servant,
THOMAS JORDAN,
Chief of Staff.
RICHMOND, VA., October 6, 1862.
General G. T. BEAUREGARD, Charleston, 8. C. :
If you think Savannah endangered by detaching two regiments to
General Finegan you will retain them. It was not intended to deprive
you of discretion in the matter.
G. W. RANDOLPH,
Secretary of War.
CHARLESTON, S. C., October 6, 1862.
H. W. MERCER,
Brigadier -General, Commanding, Savannah, Ga. :
The two regiments ordered to Florida must be recalled at once.
Answer.
By command of General Beauregard :
THOMAS JORDAN,
Chief of Staff.
RICHMOND, VA., October 6, 1862.
His Excellency Governor MILTON,
Tallahassee, Fla.:
I have telegraphed to General Beauregard to send assistance from
Georgia; if it can be done, and 1 will telegraph to General Lee about
the Florida regiments'. They now constitute a brigade, under General
Perry, and I am afraid that General Lee cannot spare them.
G. W. RANDOLPH,
Secretary of War.
630 COASTS OF 8. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVL
TALLAHASSEE, FLA., October 7, 1862.
(Received at Richmond October 8, 1862.)
SECRETARY OF WAR:
If the return of the Florida regiments will interfere at all injuriously
to tbe army under General Lee let them remain with him. My appli
cation was based upon information that they were prostrated from
sickness incident to the climate; not efficient where they are. We
need forces here and on side" of Apalachicola Kiver, and if they shall
come from Georgia and Alabama these States will be thus defended.
JOHN MILTON,
Governor of Florida.
EICHMOND, October 7, 1862.
General G. T. BEAUREGARD, Charleston:
Communicate with General Forney, commanding Department of
Alabama. If the guns you ask for are not deemed essential in their
present positions you may remove them.
S. COOPER,
Adjutant and Inspector General.
RICHMOND, October 7, 1862.
General BEAUREGARD, Charleston, 8. C.:
Your command this day extended in order to embrace South Carolina,
Georgia, and that part of Florida east of the Apalachicola Kiver. The
camps of instruction for conscripts in the several States are .under the
special control of the Secretary of War.
S. COOPER,
Adjutant and Inspector General.
SPECIAL ORDERS, } ADJT. AND INSPECTOR GENERAL'S OFFICE,
No. 234. \ Richmond, Va., October 7, 1862.
* * * # #•* *
XXXV. The States of South Carolina, Georgia, and that part of
Florida east of the Apalachicola River will constitute the department
under the command of General G. T. Beauregard.
XXXVI. The Department of East and Middle Florida is hereby con
stituted a district, and will form a part of the department under Gen
eral G. T. Beauregard.
* * * t * * « *
By command of Secretary of War:
JNO. WITHERS,
Assistant Adjutant- General.
HDQRS. DEPT. OF SOUTH CAROLINA AND GEORGIA,
Charleston, S. Q., October 8, 1862.
General S. COOPER,
Adjutant and Inspector General C. S. A., Richmond, Va. :
I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt this day of your tele
gram of the 7th instant, communicating information of the extension of
CHAP. XXVI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.-— CONFEDERATE. 631
the limits of this department to include all of the State of Georgia and
so much of Florida as is situated east of the Apalachicola River. I
beg to say that 1 trust this extension of the territory of the department
will be followed at an early day by a commensurate increase of the
forces to guard it. It is proper for me to say that the more urgent
importance of the defense of the ports of Charleston and Savannah
must necessarily occupy so much of my time that 1 cannot be absent
long enough to visit and make myself acquainted personally with the
defensive resources and capabilities of Florida, and hence must rely
entirely on the local commander.
Respectfully, your obedient servant,
G. T. BEAUREGARD,
General, Commanding.
RICHMOND, October 8, 1862.
Gov. FRANCIS W. PICKENS, Columbia, & C. :
MY DEAR SIR: Your letter of the 30th ultimo has been received and
duly considered. Your request for General Ripley will be complied
with if General Lee can spare him. I am expecting daily to hear from
General Lee upon the subject.
I will communicate your wishes to the Secretary of the Navy with
regard to the commanding officers of the gunboats and will endeavor
to have satisfactory details made for that service.
The main advantage of the obstructions across the harbor of Charles
ton is that they may prevent the enemy's gunboats from running rap
idly by during the darkness or at other times. If they are sufficiently
strong to detain the vessels for a considerable time under the fire of
our forts and batteries, and the guns are well served, we should be
able to sink or drive away any boats that might attempt to pass.
Very respectfully and truly, yours,
JEFFERSON DAVIS.
HDQRS. DEPT. OF SOUTH CAROLINA AND GEORGIA,
Charleston, 8. C., October 8, 1862.
His Excellency Gov. FRANCIS W. PICKENS,
Columbia, S. C.:
DEAR SIR : I have delayed acknowledging your letter of the 29th
ultimo and its accompanying papers in order to inclose you a copy of
the report of a board of army and naval officers relative to the present
condition of the defenses of this Harbor, which I sincerely wish were in
a more forward state of completion. I have applied for fifty-one addi
tional pieces of ordnance of the heaviest calibers to arm the inner line
of forts and batteries. I consider them indispensable, for my reliance
in the boom and other obstructions now being laid across the channel
between Fort Sumter and the new batteries on Sullivan's Island is but
very limited , except for their moral eflect. The two gunboats now under
construction are nearly ready, and I believe will be of material assist
ance to the forts at the entrance of and within the harbor. Capt. F.
D. Lee submitted to nie yesterday a plan for a torpedo ram, which I
believe would be worth several gunboats. I can only express my regret
it was not adopted at once by the Naval Department at Richmond when
submitted to it several months ago, as he informs me. I will endeavor
632 COASTS OF S C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [Ciui-. XXVI.
to have one constructed (with the authority of the War Department) as
soon as materials, labor, &c., can be collected for that object. I fear
not to put on record now that half a dozen of these torpedo rams, of
small comparative cost, would keep this harbor clear of four times the
number of the enemy's iron-clad gunboats. With regard to the condi
tion of the garrison of Fort Sumter, referred to by you, after the thor
ough investigation of the matter lately made by a military board, I can
find no cause for fearing the disloyalty or evil designs of the men com
posing it; they appear to be well disciplined and zealous, but I agree
with you in the necessity of having an able and old artillerist in com
mand of the fort at the entrance of this harbor ; hence I have made
already two applications for the services of Brigadier-General Eipley,
which have been promised me.
I have already given instructions for the construction of a battery of
five or six pieces (32-pounders and rifled guns) at Mayrant's, for the de
fense of Wiuyaw Bay. My very limited fofces will, however, permit
me to detach for its garrison only a very small number of men, probably
not over 350 of all arms.
Eespectfully, your obedient servant,
G. T. BEAUEEGAED,
General^ Commanding.
RICHMOND, YA., October 8, 1862.
General E. E. LEE,
(Care of General George H. Steuart, Winchester, Va.) :
General W. D. Smith is dead, and General Beauregard is pressing
for General Eipley. Have you any objection to his transfer to Charles
ton f Answer by telegraph.
G. W. EANDOLPH,
Secretary of War.
HDQES. DEPT. OF SOUTH CAROLINA AND GEORGIA,
Charleston, S. C., October 8, 1862.
Col. W. S. WALKER,
Colonel, Comdg. Third Mil. Dist., McPhersonville, 8. C. :
COLONEL : Your letter of the 3d instant, with its inclosures, has been
received. Your instructions to the commanding officer at Hardeeville
and to your pickets are approved of; none more in detail can be fur
nished you from here. Our means are so limited at present that it is
impossible to guard effectually the whole country and line of railroad
from here to Savannah against a determined attack of the enemy ;
but we must endeavor to make up in zeal and activity what we lack in
numbers. I shall, however, send you a light battery of artillery, to be
posted by you wherever most advantageous. Being still unacquainted
with the district of country under your command, I must rely greatly
in this and other corresponding matters on your judgment and thorough
knowledge of its topography. My intention is to consolidate the cav
alry as soon as practicable.
The two battalions referred to by you will be organized into one regi
ment, with Major Jeffords as lieutenant colonel and Lieut. Col. S. W.
Ferguson, formerly of the U. S. Dragoons, ?»s colonel, if his services can
be obtained for that position. I am happy to hear that the troops have
CHAF. XXVI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC CONFEDERATE. 633
recommenced their drilling, which is so essential to their discipline and
success.
Your recommendation of Capt. Stephen Elliott to succeed Colonel
Ellis, Eleventh Infantry South Carolina Volunteers, has just been re
ceived and will be forwarded to the War Department, approved of by
me, but the result is quite doubtlul.
Respectfully, your obedient servant,
G. T. BEAUREGARD,
General, Commanding.
CAMP NEAR JACKSONVILLE, FLA.,
October 0, 1862.
General S. COOPER, Adjutant and Inspector General :
The enemy have embarked on their transports and gunboats, and are,
I understand, going down the river this evening. They have taken all
the negroes, free and slaves, they could find in the place.
JOS. F1NEGAN,
Brigadier- General, Commanding.
CHARLESTON, S. C., October 9, 1862.
JOHN H. FORNEY,
Brigadier-General, Commanding, Mobile, Ala. :
Heaviest guns are much needed here. Can j'ou spare some from Oven
and Choctaw Bluffs until rivers rise ? This is authorized by War De
partment, provided not required by you. Send them or concentrate
them about Mobile.
G. T. BEAUREGARD.
RICHMOND, YA., October 10, 1862.
General BEAUREGARD, Charleston, 8. G. :
Florida east of the Apalachicola River has been attached to your
department, and General Finegan has been ordered to report to you.
General Ripley has been ordered to Charleston.
G. W. RANDOLPH,
Secretary of War.
HDQRS. DEPT. OF SOUTH CAROLINA AND GEORGIA,
Charleston, S. C., October 10, 1862.
General S. COOPER,
Adjutant and Inspector General C. 8. A., Richmond, Va. :
GENERAL : In continuation of my report of the inspections made by
me before taking command I have to submit the following:
On the 20 tli September, accompanied by Major-General Pemberton
and Colonel Gonzales, I left Charleston by special train in the morn
ing for Savannah. Stopping by the wayside at Rantowles Station I
inspected the works at that point — an open battery for four guns, two
634 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XxYl.
12-pounders and two 24 pounders. The position is strong, command
ing the roads from Savannah and Church Flats, on the Stono River, 3
miles distant, where there is another battery, one of three guns— two
32-pounders and one 12-pouuder rifled— to command an obstruction
and prevent a lauding from John's Island, as well as the passage by
water up Church Flats ; in which case the troops at Adams Run (9 or
10 miles distant), a central and healthy point, would have to support
that battery or fall back on the one at Kautowles Station. The right
flank of the latter should be extended or a detached redan constructed
toward the marshes in the direction of Wallace's, where there is another
battery of one 32-pounder and one rifled 6-pounder, occupying a strong-
isolated position, to flank Eantowles Battery and to cover the two
bridges across Kantowles Creek, a branch of the Stono, below Church
Flats.
The Stono Kiver must, however, be examined from the latter point
to the Wappoo Cut to determine if there are any landing places whence
the works at the Overflow can be turned.
'At the Overflow are two inclosed field works, about 5 miles distant
from Charleston, which command the road from Savannah to Long or
New Bridge across the Ashley River. These works are well located,
provided they cannot be turned on the right or left from the direction
of the Wappoo, which will be investigated. They are as yet unarmed,
it is to be noted.
On the 21st September, accompanied as just stated, and by Brigadier-
General Mercer, district commander, I inspected the defenses of Savan
nah. Those works are incomplete, but are under rapid progress. The
works on the river, I am informed, Fort Boggs excepted, are finished ;
the battery of that work, sixteen guns, is however in position.
The line of lunettes and the redans around the city may be said to be
about half finished.
These works are rather close to each other and of an unnecessarily
strong profile. Some 1,400 negroes are now employed on them. The
obstructions — piling and crib work, filled in with stone and brick —
about 1 mile below Fort Jackson and its batteries, were to be com
pleted within a fortnight from the time of my inspection. These ob
structions, I think, must form a thorough barrier to navigation; they
should, however, be closely guarded and kept in careful repair in view
of the effect of the current on the river bottom between the cribs. The
outer line of defenses, consisting of detached works or batteries at
Thunderbolt and other points, I did not visit for want of time, but
I am informed by General Peinberton that they are finished, well
armed with heavy guns, and with proper garrisons cannot be taken by
the enemy if obstinately defended. From their advantageous position
they cannot be turned; auxl my predecessor in command places great
reliance on them. An additional work at Coffee Bluff, on the Ogeechee
River, in the opinion of the chief engineer of the Georgia J^istiict,
Captain McCrady, ought to be constructed. This must be determined
hereafter. Upon the whole, I consider Savannah thoroughly defended
from any naval attack, and when its lines of land defenses shall be fin
ished, with a garrison of about 15,000 men, may be regarded as impreg
nable, unless the enemy shall mass against it an overwhelming force,
which it is not probable they will ever attempt, as the results, if favor
able, would not compensate for the expense and trouble. Having
returned to this city and assumed command of the department on the
24th ultimo, accompanied by Colonel Gonzales, I inspected the line of
works on the Neck, constructed to defend the city of Charleston from
CHAP, XXVI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. — CONFEDERATE. 635
a land attack from the north. It is a continuous bastion line, of strong
profile, and elaborately built but badly located, not being, in my opinion,
well adapted to the ground. It is commanded to a certain extent by
woods in front, and can be enfiladed and taken in reverse by gunboats
in the Cooper and Ashley, particularly the latter. No traverses have
been made; these are absolutely necessary, but even then this line
could scarely be held successfully against a fleet of gunboats in the
rivers.
The two batteries at the Half-Moon Battery, as yet incomplete, are
intended, one for five and the other for three guns, each to command
Cooper Eiver and Town Creek, but the distance to the former is too
great. A much better position could have been found, in my opinion,
on the opposite side of the river, at Hobcaw Bluffs, but obstructions
most difficult to be made, if not impracticable, are also necessary for an
effective defense. The profiles of the parapet of these batteries is too
great, especially that of the former. Adaptation of means to the end
has not always been consulted in the works around this city and Sa
vannah, and much unnecessary work has been bestowed on many of
them. They show, however, great energy and industry in the officers
who have executed them.
Kespectfully, your obedient servant,
G. T. BEAUEEGAED,
General, Commanding.
SPECIAL ORDERS, ) HDQRS. DEPT. OF EAST AND MIDDLE FLA.,
No. 1256. } Lake City, October 10, 1862.
Lieutenant-Colonel Mitchell will move with the Twenty-ninth and
Thirtieth Georgia Eegiments under his command witli all possible dis
patch to Savannah and report to Brigadier-General Mercer for duty.
The quartermaster will furnish transportation via Monticello. In con
sequence of the limited transportation on the Central Railroad Lieu
tenant-Colonel Mitchell will move part of his command by this after
noon's train to Lake City and the balance by to-morrow's train, when
a train will be ready from Tallahassee to convey the whole command to
Mouticello.
By order of Brigadier-General Finegan :
W. CALL,
Captain and Assistant Adjutant- General.
SPECIAL ORDERS, ) ADJT. AND INSPECTOR GENERAL'S OFFICE,
No. 237. ' J Richmond, Va., October 10, 1862.
* ' * * * * * *
XII. Brig. Gen. E. S. Eipley will proceed to Charleston, S. C., and
report for duty to General G. T. Beanregard, commanding.
**#****
By command of Secretary of War :
JNO. W1THEES,
Assistant Adjutant- General.
636 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVL
HDQRS. DEFT. OF SOUTH CAROLINA AND GEORGIA,
Charleston, October 12, 1862.
Mr. J. K. SASS,
Chairman of State Gunboat Commission, Charleston, 8. (J. :
DEAR SIR : In view of the necessity of getting ready as soon as pos
sible the proposed torpedo ram oi'Capt. F. D. Lee, and the difficulty,
if not impossibility, of procuring1 the materials and machinery for its
construction, I have the honor to request that the materials, &c., col
lected for the State's new gunboats should be applied to the torpedo
ram, which I am informed can be got ready sooner (in less than two
months), will cost less, and will be more efficacious in my opinion. In
other words, I think the State and the country would be the gainers by
constructing one of these new engines of destruction in place of the
intended gunboat now just commencing to be built.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
G. T. BEAUREGAED,
General, Commanding.
*
HDQRS. DEPT. OF SOUTH CAROLINA AND GEORGIA,
Charleston, S. C., October 13, 1862.
Brig. Gen. H. W. MERCER,
Commanding District of Georgia, Savannah, Ga. :
GENERAL : The commanding general wishes you to send your chief
engineer, or some officer regarded by you as unquestionably competent,
to make a reconnaissance of the Ocmulgee River, with a view to its
effectual obstruction and fortification against the ascent of that river
by light draught gunboats to Macon. Please direct a detailed report
of the reconnaissance to be made, with plans for the projected work
commensurate with the ends in view.
Respectfully, your obedient servant.
THOMAS JORDAN,
Chief of Staff.
HDQRS. DEPT. OF SOUTH CAROLINA AND GEORGIA,
Charleston, 8. C., October 13, 1862.
General S. COOPER,
Adjutant and Inspector General C. S. A., Richmond, Va.:
GENERAL : The bearer, Capt. F. D. Lee, Provisional Engineers, has
submitted to me a plan of a torpedo ram for the defense of this harbor
which meets my hearty approbation, as offering altogether the most
practicable means of a successful encounter with the formidable iron
clad gunboats of the enemy I have yet seen. This plan having been
brought to the notice of the authorities of the State of South Carolina
they, with thevr characteristic promptness, have placed at my disposi
tion the sum of 850,000 for the immediate construction of such a ram
as Captain Lee proposes. Practical builders express the belief that
they can build it for the sum appropriated, but as 1 am aware of the
difficulty of estimating with the least accuracy the cost of such work
at this juncture, J have concluded to sc. id Captain Lee to submit the
details of his plan to the War Department, or, if nece>sary, to the Navy
Department, with the hope that the co-operation of the Confederate
CHAP. XXVI] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. — CONFEDERATE. 637
Government may be secured, if necessary, in the construction of the
one about to be begun by the State, and also that the plan will meet
with such favor as to lead to the construction of similar rams for other
scenes of operation. 1 cannot doubt that rams, properly built, accord
ing to the plan of Captain Lee would be far more effective than gun
boats of the present construction, three times as large and costly, with
the other important advantage of being btiilt in one-third of the time
required for rams of the present models. Time, indeed, is now of vital
importance in preparing for the safety of this city and port, and should
the plan which Captain Lee will submit be approved by the depart
ment and authority be given to use the materials already collected
here I feel assured I can have the work done with such vigor as to
have a rani ready for service in time to render signal aid in holding
this fort for the Confederate States.
Were some of these rams built at the same time in the Yazoo Eiver
they could dash out and clear the Mississippi Elver and aid materially
in the recapture of New Orleans ; and if effective here others would be
equally efficient at Port Royal and Savannah and in James River. Let
me bespeak for Captain Lee the consideration due to his zeal, intelli
gence, and capacity as a practical engineer.
Respectfully, your obedient servant,
G. T. BEAUREGARD.
General, Commanding.
HDQRS. DEPT. OF SOUTH CAROLINA AND GEORGIA,
Charleston, & C., October 13, 1862.
Col. W. S. WALKER,
Commanding C. S. Forces, McPhersonville, S. C. :
Hold your command ready for emergency, supplied with provisions
and ammunition. Heavy baggage and stores might be sent to the
rear ; some re-enforcements will be held ready to support you ; keep
pickets alert and spies active — pay latter well. Mitchel more fussy than
dangerous.
G. T. BEAUREGARD.
HDQRS. DEPT. OF SOUTH CAROLINA AND GEORGIA,
Charleston, S. C., October 13, 1802.
W. S. WALKER,
Colonel, Comdg. Third Mil. Dist., McPhersonville, S. C.:
COLONEL : Your letter of the 12th instant has been received, and I
am instructed to say that every effort will be made to enable you to
hold your position against any effort of the enemy to dislodge you.
Nevertheless the commanding general regards it as but prudent for you
to send to the rear all surplus stores and supplies and unnecessary bag
gage, making at the same time preparations to move back the remain
der at a moment's warning. You will also hold your entire command
ready to be concentrated and act wheresoever required, provided with
three days' cooked rations in haversacks and two days' provisions in
wagons; 40 rounds of ammunition in cartridge boxes kept untouched
except in action, and a reserve supply of 60 rounds in wagons. As a
measure of precaution against waste, let me suggest that it were well
638 COAStS OF S. C., <U., AND MID. AND fcAS? FLA.
to explain to your officers that cooked provisions must not be allowed
to become stale, but consumed from day to day and replaced by freshly
cooked rations.
The pickets will be charged to use redoubled vigilance. Spies should
be actively employed to procure information, and you are authorized
to pay them well. Re-enforcements, if required, will be thrown forward
if practicable, say 2,000 from this place, 1,000 from General Hagood's
command, and 2,000 from Savannah. And in this connection the gen
eral desires to be informed of the point upon which you think re-en
forcements should be concentrated. It is more than probable that
Mitchel's immediate object will be either to cut the Charleston and Sa
vannah Railroad at its most vulnerable point or a raid to collect cotton
and negroes wheresoever most accessible.
He is known to be more fussy than dangerous and addicted to pre
datory excursions.
Respectfully, colonel, your obedient servant,
THOMAS JORDAN,
Chief of Staff.
HDQRS. PROV. FOBOES, DIST. OF EAST AND MID. FLA.,
Tallahassee, October 14, 1862.
Brig. Gen. THOMAS JORDAN, Chief of Staff :
SIR : I have the honor to report, for the information of the general
commanding, that I,hav6 in service in this district but ten companies of
cavalry (not yet organized into a regiment), five companies of Partisan
Rangers, nine companies of infantry, and two companies ot light artil
lery, a force wholly inadequate for the proper defense of the State.
During the summer months no apprehension of invasion was enter
tained, and I consequently, when called on by the department, sent out
of the State in less than ninety days one regiment of cavalry, six regi
ments of infantry, two independent companies of cavalry, and one in
dependent company of artillery, all Florida troops. Three of the com
panies enumerated above are still serving west of the Apalachicola
River, General Forney having made no provision to supply their place
since that portion of the State has been attached to his department.
The troops in this district are stationed from Tampa Bay to the Apa
lachicola River on the Gulf, and from Fernandina to Jacksonville and
Palatka on the Saint John's, covering exposed points. At no place have
I sufficient force to resist invasion even by a moderate force. Recently
an important position on the Saint John's River was evacuated by the
officer in command because he did not consider he had sufficient force
to resist what he considered an overwhelming force of the enemy. I
asked for a regiment to sustain the battery on the river immediately
after it was erected, which was not furnished. The two Georgia regi
ments did not arrive in time to prevent the disaster. The officer had
TOO men, and I consider it a great error of judgment in his abandoning
the position. I would have been present myself if he had held the
place five hours longer. The enemy did not approach the battery by
land for twenty hours after the evacuation.
I respectfully request that at least two or three regiments be ordered
to this district at the earliest day practicable.
I have the honor to be, general, &c.,
JOS. FINEGAN,
Brigadier- General, Commanding.
. iiHj CORRESPONDENCE, fetC. — COfrFEbERATE. 639
CHARLESTON, S. C., October 14, 1862.
General S. COOPER,
Assistant Adjutant- General, &c., Richmond, Va.:
President Young refused to give up the coin;* forcible possession
taken ; guard placed over it ; where shall it be sent I Enemy appears
to be preparing for a movement near Port Royal Ferry. My forces
there are very weak. Could they not be increased from sources beyond
my reach I G. T. BEAUREGARD.
HDQRS. DEPT. OF SOUTH CAROLINA AND GEORGIA,
Charleston, S. C., October 14, 18G2.
Brig. Gen. H. W. MERCER,
Commanding District of Georgia, Savannah, Ga. :
GENERAL : There are indications that the Abolition commander at
Port Royal may undertake some raid into the Third Military District.
In view of the possibility of such an event the commanding- general
has arranged to re-enforce Colonel Walker sufficiently to repel and
punish the attempt if made. I am instructed therefore to direct you
to hold in readiness about 2,000 infantry of your command for detached
service at a moment's notice j to which end they will keep three days'
cooked rations in haversacks, 40 rounds of ammunition in cartridge
boxes, and a reserve supply of 60 rounds of ammunition and two days'
subsistence ready for transportation.
1. These troops will be expected to move in light marching order,
uneu cumbered with unnecessary baggage.
2. The general commanding regards it as prudent that the officers
should be cautioned not to permit the cooked rations to grow stale.
They must be consumed and replaced by fresh provisions from day to
day.
Respectfully, your obedient servant,
THOMAS JORDAN,
Chief of Staff and Assistant Adjutant- General.
HDQRS. DEPT. OF SOUTH CAROLINA AND GEORGIA,
Charleston, S. C., October 14, 1862.
Brig. Gen. S. R. GIST,
Commanding First Military District :
GENERAL : I am instructed by the commanding general to direct you
to hold in readiness about 2,000 infantry of your command for detached
service at a moment's notice; to which end they will keep three days'
cooked rations in haversacks, 40 rounds of ammunition in cartridge boxes,
and a reserve supply of 60 rounds of ammunition and two days' subsist
ence ready for transportation. These troops will be expected to move
in light marching order, unencumbered with unnecessary baggage.
The general commanding regards it as prudent that the officers should
be cautioned not to permit the cooked rations to grow stale. They must
be consumed and replaced by fresh provisions from day to day.
The service anticipated will be in the Third Military District, and
hence the movement will be by rail as far as McPhersonville.
Respectfully, your obedient servant,
THOMAS JORDAN,
Chief of Staff, Assistant Adjutant- General.
* Belonging to Bank of Louisiana. See Series IV.
640 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVI.
RICHMOND, VA., October 15, 1862.
Governor JOHN MILTON, Tallahassee, Ila.:
General Lee reports the Florida regiments to be in pretty good state
of drill and discipline and constantly improving, but says that so.far
from being able to spare them be wishes men sent to fill them np.
G. W. RANDOLPH,
Secretary of War.
RICHMOND, October 15, 18C2.
General G. T. BEAUREGARD, Charleston, 8. G. :
The Secretary of the Treasury desires to have the coin turned over
to T. S. Metcalf, the Government depositary at Augusta. You will
dispose of it accordingly.
G. W. RANDOLPH,
Secretary of War.
HDQRS. DEFT. OF SOUTH CAROLINA AND GEORGIA,
Charleston, October 16, 1862.
General G. T. BEAUREGARD,
Comdg. Dept. of South Carolina and Georgia, Charleston, 8. C. :
GENERAL : I have the honor to report that, in obedience to your
orders, on the 14th instant, in company with Capt. A. T. Beauregard, I
proceeded to McPhersouville, the headquarters of Col. W. S. Walker,
commanding Third Military District of South Carolina, arriving there
at 3 p. in. 1 delivered your dispatch. The colonel expressed himself
very much gratified to hear of the re-enforcements you contemplated
sending him in case of an attack on the Charleston and Savannah Rail
road within the limits of his military district, stating at the same time
that with the force now under his command he could only make a re
tiring fight, his numbers being so small (as stated in his letter which I
handed to you).
His force, although small, he regards as very reliable. The colonel
desired me to say to you that he was much in want of a good officer to
assist him in disciplining the cavalry, and as, owing to the nature of
the country, they would have to fight mostly on foot, he was very anx
ious to have his requisition for rifles filled.
He designated the following places as points for concentrating his
troops, viz: Pocotaligo, Grahamville, and Hardeeville, at which places
he now has his encampments.
Should the enemy attempt to force their way to the railroad at Poco
taligo he calculated to hold them in check in rear of Screveu's rice
fields, protecting his command behind a small work, ditch and hedge,
with rice fields overflowed on each flank. Should they attempt to ad
vance to the bridge across the Combahee River at Salkehatchie by the
road parallel to the river and another small road known as Seller's
road, he would then hold them in check at the junction of two roads
near the bridge, the country at that point being swampy and densely
wooded. Both these roads of approach he intends having obstructed
and the bridges taken up. In case of a landing being made at Hu-
guenin's, on Broad River, he would hold them in check at thecausewa3~
and bridge across Bee's Creek, on the old mail road, at the junction of
the Euhaw and Grahamville roads.
CHAP. XXVI.j CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. CONFEDERATE. 641
For the protection of the approaches to Grahamville works have been
erected on the different roads, the nearest landing place being on Boyd's
Neck. Should they land at Bluffton, he has selected a position at New
River Bridge., on the old mail road, where he has an embrasure battery
to protect the bridge. If they land at Red Bluff, which he does not
think probable, he has selected a position near New River, where he
has two small works erected.
Colonel Walker has written to General Mercer, commanding at Sa
vannah, to inquire of him what force he has on this side of the Savan
nah River, in order that he might act in concert with him. He has
pickets posted at all the available points between the Ashepoo and Sa
vannah Rivers. The force between Ashepoo and Combahee Rivers is
composed of but one small battalion of cavalry, commanded by Major
Jeffords. Chapman's Fort, on the Ashepoo, has been abandoned; the
guns have been removed. A picket is now stationed at that point. The
railroad bridge across this river is more accessible to the enemy than
any of the other bridges, the river being deep and navigable some dis
tance above the bridge. Obstructions were placed in this river under
fire from the guns of Fort Chapman.
The colonel was anxious to have the cavalry under his command or
ganized into regiments; there being at present so many independent
companies and battalions under his command, he thinks they would be
more effective under good regimental commanders. He has not hereto
fore made use of spies to procure information, but scouts in uniform.
He now has the offer of the services of several white men whom he will
employ in that capacity, also two negroes, which he will endeavor to
make use of.
We returned to this city yesterday at 1.30 o'clock p. m., when I de
livered to you the letter of Colonel Walker, being his reply to your dis
patch.
I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
A. R. CHISOLM,
First Lieutenant and Aide-de-Camp.
SPECIAL ORDERS, ) HDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF S. C. AND GA.,
No. 195. J Charleston, S. C., October 16, 1862.
I. Brig. Gen. R. S. Ripley, Confederate States Army, having reported
for duty in this department, is assigned to the command of the First
Military District, vice Brig. Gen. William Duncan Smith, deceased, re
lieving Brigadier-General Gist, who will resume his former command.
Brigadier-General Ripley will direct his attention especially to the de
fenses of Charleston Harbor, which must be placed in as complete con
dition for immediate service as circumstances will permit, and will call
on the commanding general for the men and material that he may find
essential for a successful and prolonged resistance to any attack which
the resources of the enemy may enable them to make.
II. All shot, shell, grape, and canister in heavy batteries and in heavy
artillery will be gauged at once by the commanding officers thereof,
and such as are unsuitable to the guns they were issued tor will be re
turned to the ordnance depot, with a requisition for an equal number
of the proper kind.
III. Commanders of forts and batteries will examine forthwith their
magazines, in order to ascertain whether they have any projectiles not
41 R R — VOL xiv
642 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVI.
suited to their armament. All such as may.be found will be iinmedi-
ately returned to the ordnance depot, stating their number and caliber.
By command of General Beauregard:
THOMAS JORDAN,
Chief of Staff and Assistant Adjutant- General.
HDQRS. DEPT. OF SOUTH CAROLINA AND GEORGIA,
Charleston, S. C., October 17, 1862.
Hon. CHARLES MACBETH,
Mayor of Charleston, S. C. :
DEAR SIR : I have just received the following telegram from the hon
orable Secretary of War, which I think advisable to communicate to
you:
A gentleman who brings good credentials h;is just arrived from Baltimore; he re
ports that a Cabinet meeting was held in Washington on the 7th instant, at which it
was ordered that Commodore DnPout should attack Charleston within the ensuing
two weeks. I give you the statement for what it is worth.
This may be a mere rumor, but it may be prudent to prepare for the
event in case the news should prove to be true.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
G. T. BEAUREGARD,
General, Commanding.
(Copies sent to Brig. Gen. R. S. Ripley, commanding First District,
and Commodore D. U. Ingraham, commanding naval station, Charles
ton.)
CHARLESTON, S. C., October 17, 1862.
Hon. GEORGE W. RANDOLPH,
Secretary of War, Richmond, Va. :
We will endeavor to give Commodore DuPont as warm a reception
as circumstances will permit. Cannot Captain Harris, of Engineers,
be hurried on here ? Much has still to be done.
G. T. BEAUREGARD.
CHARLESTON, S. C., October 17, 18G2.
General S. COOPER,
Adjutant and Inspector General, Richmond, Va. :
Colonel Myers, Quartermaster-General, has ordered all blankets at
Charleston and Savannah to be sent to Richmond. This strips this de
partment of blankets for conscripts to come in under the new law. I ask'
authority to keep at least one-fourth supply on hand.
G. T. BEAUREGARD.
HDQRS. DEPT. OF SOUTH CAROLINA AND GEORGIA,
Charleston, 8. C., October 17, 1862.
Dr. CHEVES,
In Charge of Harbor Obstructions, Charleston, 8. C.:
DEAR SIR : Information having reached me that the enemy might
CHAP. XXVI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. CONFEDERATE. 643
soon make a demonstration against this place, I think it would be ad
visable to hurry on as soon as possible the laying in position of the
proposed obstructions, including the urope entanglement."
I have ordered General Mercer to send as soon as possible all the
chains and anchors not required for the obstructions of the Savannah
Eiver proper.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
G. T. BEAUEEGAED,
General, Commanding.
HDQRS. DEPT. OF SOUTH CAROLINA AND GEORGIA,
Charleston, 8. C., October 17, 1862.
Brig. Gen. E. S. RIFLE Y,
Commanding First Military District:
GENERAL: On consideration the commanding general has determined
to authorize you to assign Brigadier-General (Grist to such command in
your district as you may regard as most advantageous to the service
and for the operations of the district.
Eespectfully, your obedient servant,
THOMAS JOEDA^,
Chief of Staff.
CHARLESTON, S. 0., October 18, 1862.
General S. COOFER,
Adjutant and Inspector General ', Richmond, Va. :
British steamer Leopard arrived last night with valuable cargo —
arms, ammunition, blankets, shoes, and army supplies. Have to ask
authority to direct purchase of all wanted.
G. T. BEAUEEGAED,
General, Commanding.
EICHMOND, October 18, 1862.
General G. T. BEAUREGARD, Charleston, S. C.:
Purchase all the army supplies in the cargo.
S. COOPEE,
• Adjutant and Inspector General.
HDQRS. DEFT. OF SOUTH CAROLINA AND GEORGIA,
Charleston, S. C., October 18, 1862.
General S. COOPER,
Adjutant and Inspector General C. 8. A., Richmond, Va.:
GENERAL: I have to bring to the notice of the War Department the
unorganized condition of the cavalry under my command, and to ask
respectfully that early measures may be taken to correct a state of
things which in my judgment must seriously impair the efficiency of
this arm of the service. The volunteer cavalry, for example, stationed
in the State of South Carolina, consists of Stokes', Morgan's, Jeffords7,
and Einanuel's battalions, of four companies each, Williugton Eangers,
three unattached companies under Major Byrd at McClellausville, the
644 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAF. XXVI
Rutledge Mounted Rifles, Captain Trenholin, and Cbarlestou Light
Dragoons, Captain Rutledge, out of which I ask authority to organize
two regiments, to be formed, the one of Jeffords' and Morgan's battalions,
eigbt companies, and the other of Stokes' and Emauuel's battalions, eight
companies, with two other companies to be added to each from the
unattached companies, to be selected with some view to homogenity
with the other companies to which they may be attached, and also with
some regard for the wishes of the officers and men. For the field officers
of the first regiment I respectfully propose as colonel Lieut. Col. S. W.
Ferguson, now of Starke's regiment Mississippi Volunteer Cavalry; for
lieutenant-colonel Maj. R. J. Jeffords, and Maj. J. H. Morgan as the major.
Lieutenant-Colonel Ferguson is a graduate of West Point, a cavalry
officer of experience, both of regular and volunteer cavalry; served with
distinction at the battle of Mauassas and Shiloh; is a citizen and native
of this immediate section of South Carolina, and there would seem to
be entire propriety in his appointment to the command of South Car
olina troops. I have great need of a cavalry officer of his experience,
and I regard his appointment as of vital importance to the cavalry arm
in tbis department. For the other regiment, on the recommendation of
my predecessor, I respectfully submit tbe names of Capt. B. H. Rut-
ledge as colonel, Maj. W. Stokes as lieutenant-colonel, and Maj. W. P.
Emauuel as the major. I may add that this organization has the con
sent of Majors Stokes and Emanuel. From the records of my office I
am assured that this proposed organization is essential for an efficient
use of the cavalry. Under the present system there is a material want
of discipline and drill, indeed a lack of everything needful to constitute
effective cavalry, and I trust while there may be found ample authority
for the consolidation under recently enacted laws no mere personal
aspirations or wishes of officers will be allowed to stand as a bar to a
measure so salutary.
Respectfully, your obedient servant,
G. T. BEAUREGARD,
General, Commanding.
HDQRS. DEPT. OF SOUTH CAROLINA AND GEORGIA,
Charleston, S. C., October 18, 1862.
Judge THOMAS BALTZELL, Charleston, S. G. :
DEAR SIR: I have no hesitation in saying, upon the information com
municated to me by you relative to the present condition of the railroads
in Florida, that the completion of the one from Thomasville to Bain-
bridge, on the Flint River (36 miles), and of the branch from Groves-
ville to the Tallahassee Railroad (16 miles) would add greatly to the
military facilities for the defense of Middle Florida, by enabling troops
from the interior of Georgia or vicinity of Savannah to be sent rapidly
to any point in that part of the State which might be threatened by
the enemy.
I remain, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
G. T. BEAUREGARD,
General, Commanding.
HDQRS. DEPT. OF SOUTH CAROLINA AND GEORGIA,
Charleston, S. C., October 19, 1862.
Brig. Gen. R. S. RIPLEY, Comdg. First Military District:
GENERAL : As the enemy have shown a design to interrupt or pre-
CHAP. XXVI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. CONFEDERATE. 645
vent the erection of any works at Mayrant's Bluff the commanding gen
eral directs me to suggest that the enemy may be foiled by proper
efforts. Sham works should be attempted at some point in view of the
gunboats, and meanwhile the real works should be vigorous!}7 prose
cuted at night.
It is likewise the wish of the general commanding that Sullivan's
Creek should be effectively obstructed without delay against the pos
sible attempts of mortar-boats.
Some arrangement must be made for the disposition of the troops on
Sullivan's Island not needed for the service of the batteries in case of
an attack merely by gunboats. To this matter the commanding gen
eral wishes you to give your attention.
The houses on Sullivan's Island on the sea-shore you will take meas
ures to remove at an early day.
Respectfully, your obedient servant,
THOMAS JORDAN,
Chief of Staff and Assistant Adjutant- General.
HDQRS. DEPT. OF SOUTH CAROLINA AND GEORGIA,
Charleston, S. <7., October 20, 1862.
Col. W. J. LAWTON,
Albany, Dougherty County, Ga. :
COLONEL: Your communication of the 7th instant has just been
received, and I am instructed to say in reply that attention will be
given to the defense of the Chattahoochee River, steps having already
been taken looking to that important measure. The enemy will scarcely
send so far into the country a small force, that could be handled by t he
force you suggest. The mischief to be anticipated and guarded against
is the ascent of the river by gunboats. You do not mention where
your regiment (Second Georgia Cavalry) is now stationed.
Respectfully, your obedient servant,
THOMAS JORDAN,
Chief of Staff.
SAVANNAH, GA., October 20, 1862.
I visited this day the defensive works on the river below the city
and the obstructions. The latter are considered completed by the offi
cers in command.
1st. Fort Jackson, 3 miles below the city and 1J miles above obstruc
tions, is a very weak work, mounting two 8-inch columbiads, seven 32-
pounders, one 18-pounder — ten guns. Its masonry walls are almost en
tirely exposed to the enemy's fire, and its flanks and gorges closed by
barrack walls, loop-holed. It is entirely under command of a work at
Carston's Bluff, 1£ miles in its rear, and is defective in many respects.
Moreover its armament is composed of guns of too light caliber. I
have ordered two traverses in this work and one of its parapet guns
to be put on the covered way and a useless 18-pounder removed to the
lines.
2d. Battery Lee, near and just below Fort Jackson, is a water battery
of three 10-inch mortars, two 10-inch columbiads, three 8-inch colum
biads, one 42-pouuder, and one 32-pounder, in all seven guns ; a good
position, but its rear is entirely open to Carston's Bluff, about 1J miles
646 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND KAST FLA. [CIIAI-. XXVI.
off. If the lattej were occupied by an enemy with rifled or heavy guns
both of these works could not be held more, than one or two hours.
The magazines of Battery Lee are worse than useless, being so damp
(or wet rather) that powder cannot keep in them. This must be reme
died forthwith by draining its site thoroughly into the river, by means
of ditches, levees, and a flood-gate.
I then visited Lawtou's Battery of seven guns (two 10-inch coluin-
biads, two 8-iuch columbiads, one 42 pounder, one 32-pounder, and one
32-pounder rifled) across the river and a little above Fort Jackson. It
is not entirely completed, but appears to have good traverses between
every gun. Its new magazine is not yet constructed; the old one is
small and quite damp.
I then visited the naval battery, on a small island not far from Law
tou's Battery. I has nine guns (seven 32-pounders, two 24 pounders,
Blakelx ). It is unprovided with sufficient traverses, and can be enfi
laded from beyond the obstructions. I have ordered one of its guns
to be removed and a large traverse constructed in its place. The
magazine is in as bad a condition as Lee's Battery. The defect will
have to be remedied in the same manner. But the site of all these
batteries is so low and marshy that no proper magazines can be con
structed without settling beneath the material surface of the ground,
unless built on piles. Instructions to that effect have been given to
the chief district engineer, Captain McCrady.
On a small island near the city there is a small three-gun battery
(three 32-pounders), Hutchinson Island Battery, enfilading the river, and
Screven's Causeway, on the South Carolina side. It occupies an ad
vantageous position, but apparently low and damp.
SAVANNAH, October 21, 1862.
I this day visited, with Brigadier-General Mercer, Colonel Gonzales,
chief of artillery, and Captains Echols and McCrady, Engineers, the
line of outworks, commencing with Carston's Bluff, on Saint Augustine
Creek, 4 miles south of Savannah. It is an open battery of six guns
(two 8-inch columbiads, four 32-pounders), on a position" commanding
the navigation of creek at that point, about 300 yards wide. Vessels
drawing 16 feet water can navigate it. The distance of Carston's Bluff
Battery from the obstructions in Savannah Kiver is about 2 miles and
1 mile from obstructions in Saint Augustine Creek. This battery is
enfiladed by Oatland Island, about 700 yards off, and taken in rear by
Whitemarsh Island, about 3,->00 yards off.
I have ordered its traverses to be lengthened sufficiently j also door
of magazine properly protected, and those islands cleared to see move
ments of enemy.
There are no guns bearing up the Saint Augustine Creek. This is a
defect which must be remedied. I have ordered a three-gun battery to
be constructed at Greenwich Bluff, an advantageous position about 1
mile up from Carston's Bluff. There is also a three-gun battery on
bluff north of Carstou's Bluff, commanding low ground between the
latter and Fort Jackson. Carstou's Bluff is a most important position,
which, falling into the hands of the enemy, would completely command
the rear of Fort Jackson and Battery Lee at the short rifled-gun range
of 1£ miles.
I will here remark that an unfortunate mistake was made in locating
the obstructions and defenses at Savannah Kiver. The two are too far
apart, 1J miles, and those defenses are entirely under the control of
patteries placed by an enemy on bluffs from Fort Boggs to Carston's
C.IAP. XXVI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. CONFEDERATE. 647
Bluff; so that if any one of the line of outworks was to fall into his
hands the series of them would necessarily have to be evacuated, and
the enemy would then have the way open to establish the batteries
already referred to commanding the defenses on the river.
I then visited the battery of twelve guns (two 8-inch columbiads,
two 42-pounders, seven 32-pounders, one 24-pounder rifled, two 8-inch
navy guns) at Thunderbolt, on Saint Augustine Creek, above Carston's
Bluff, about 0 miles to the southwest of Savannah. This is naturally a
strong position, with good traverses between the guns to prevent en
filade fire from Liberty Island, about 1J miles off, excepting the two ex
treme guns, which are not yet sufficiently protected. Several of these
guns are also exposed to rear fire from the Isle of Hope, about 2 miles
off in a southwest direction. The front of the battery is exposed to direct
tire of Whitemarsh Island, about three fourths of a mile off' in a south
east direction. The woods on this and Liberty Islands have been ordered
to be cleared. Should the enemy put strong and numerous* batteries on
these three islands the battery at Thunderbolt might be made untenable.
It is also liable to the objections already referred to relative to Carston's
Bluff, of being turned in case any of the other outworks should fall.
OCTOBER 22, 1862.
I went this day to visit the battery at Beaulieu of eight guns (two
42 pounders, five 32-pounders, one I2-pouuder rifled), 12 miles from
Savannah, with a tine road leading to it. It is a good position, com
manding the Vernon River. The guns are well protected from enfilade
fire by heavy traverses, and the whole battery is in a very fine condi
tion, the magazines appearing to be quite dry. Several of the guns are
without elevating screws, which must be furnished. I visited also the
Isle of Hope Causeway, connecting the latter island to the main-land,
with a very fine road to Savannah, only about 8 miles from the latter
place. This is a very important line of communication, and one by
which all the outer works can be turned, and the causeway should be
commanded by a battery for two guns (siege 24-pounder howitzers) on
each side of it. At present only a rifle pit has been established, with a
position for a field gun.
OCTOBER 24, 1862.
I visited to-day the battery at Genesis Point, 9 miles below Savannah,
Albany and Gulf Railroad, and 25 miles from the city, and commanding
the Great Ogeeehee. It is armed with seven guns (owe 8-inch colum-
biad, one 42-potinder, and five 32-pounders). This position is a strong
one, which I urn informed cannot be turned or flanked. The armament
is too light. Two or more heavy or rifled guns should be sent there
immediately. A row of piles has been driven across the river at this
point. Vessels drawing 13 feet of water can reach the important rail
road bridge across the Great Ogeechee. The traverses in this battery
are too weak and too low. They must be raised and the magazines
better protected. The hot-shot furnace is badly located and arranged;
it must be reconstructed properly. There is here, besides, one light
battery of eight pieces.
From this point I could see Coffee Bluff, on the Little Ogeechee,
about 12 miles from Savannah, to which there is a tine and straight
shell road. That is an important position, which is not fortified, being
protected only by one light battery of six-guns and one rifled G-pounder.
This bluff, however, does not command a branch of the Little Ogeechee
(548 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVI.
(Grove River), which empties into it a short distance below the bluff;
but Rosedew island, I am informed, commands both, and should be at
once fortified, and armed with five or six guns. Heavy vessels, drawing
15 feet water, 1 am told, can get up to the Savannah, Atlantic and
Gulf Eailroad Bridge, which is quite a long one. A row of piles has
been driven across the river 1£ miles below said bridge, but is not pro
tected by any works or guns.
Grove* River is commanded by a light battery of six pieces and one
18-pounder at Stave's Landing, without, however, any parapet to protect
the guns. The same is the case at Coffee Bluff.
OCTOBER 27, 1862.
I passed in review to-day about 4,000 men of troops (infantry, artil
lery, and cavalry) stationed at and in the vicinity of the city. They
looked remarkably well and moved very steadily.
OCTOBER 28, 1862.
I visited this day the interior line of defenses, which are about two-
thirds finished. The part finished is too strong for the objoct in view,
and the work should have been more equally distributed, for a portion
of the most important or exposed part is still unfinished ; the part
corresponding to the left flank of the lines, i. e., from Fort Mercer to
FortBoggs. The latter work is too elaborately finished where completed.
G. T. BEATJREGARD.
CHARLESTON, October 22, 1862.
Brig. Gen. THOMAS JORDAN, Chief of Staff:
GENERAL : In obedience to instructions from department headquar
ters, dated October 13, 1862, instructing me to repair to Richmond,
Va., on special service with the War Department, I left this city on
the evening of the same day, and after some detention on the route
(via Charlotte to Raleigh) reached Richmond on Thursday evening,
October 16. I immediately called on the Hon. William Porch er Miles,
but learned that he was too unwell to receive me. At his request I saw
him on the following morning, and submitted for his perusal General
Beau regard's letter to the Adjutant General.
Mr. Miles being still indisposed, I went alone to the Adjutant-Gen
eral and placed in his hands the dispatches with which I was charged.
General Cooper expressed a warm interest in the plan proposed, and
immediately submitted it to the consideration of the Secretary of War,
who referred it to Colonel Gilrner, Chief of Engineers. After explain
ing the plan in all its details to Colonel Gilmer I left it in his hands
until the next morning.
On Saturday, October 18, Mr. Miles, by appointment, accompanied
me to the Secretary of War, who, after perusing General Beauregard's
letter, referred it with his warm approval to the Secretary of the Navy.
Mr. Miles introduced me to Mr. Mallory, and after a careful examina
tion of the design, expressed his deep interest in the undertaking and
his entire willingness to furnish everything in his power to make its
accomplishment as early as possible. He then referred the matter to
Commander [John M.] Brooke, Chief of Ordnance, Navy Department,
who called in Mr. Porter, Naval Constructor.
Commander Brook went immediately into an examination of tlje plan
CHAI-. XXVI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. CONFEDERATE. 649
arid prepared his report to the Secretary of the Navy, approving of the
design, as ottering a valuable auxiliary to the defense of rivers and
harbors.
I then called on Colonel Gilmer, who gave me some valuable advice
in reference to certain details of the design, and advised that some ex
periments be instituted, not to interfere, however, with the immediate
commencement of the work. After leaving Colonel Gilmer it was too
late to see tlie Secretary of the Navy to obtain his order for the ma
terials required. I therefore advised with Mr. Miles whether it would
not be proper for me to leave the further prosecution of the matter in
his hands and immediately return to my post. Mr. Miles replied that
nothing more remained to be done except to obtain Mr. Mallory's acqui
escence, which he would endeavor to obtain on the following Monday.
I thereupon dispatched a telegram to department headquarters, stat
ing briefly what had been done, and reporting my intended immediate
departure for Charleston, where I arrived on this morning.
I have the honor to be, general, very respectfully, your obedient
servant,
FRANCIS D. LEE,
Captain Engineers, Provisional Army Confederate States.
HDQRS. DEFT. OF SOUTH CAROLINA AND GEORGIA,
Charleston, 8. C., October 22, 1862.
Brig. Gen. R. S. RIPLEY,
Commanding First Military District :
GENERAL : I am instructed to direct you to send with the least delay
practicable to Pocotaligo a force of about 2,000 men for temporary serv
ice, supplied and provided as directed in a communication from these
headquarters addressed to Brigadier-General Gist on the 14th instant.
Respectfully, your obedient servant,
THOMAS JORDAN,
Chief of Staff and Assistant Adjutant General.
CHARLESTON, S. 0., October 22. 1862.
Brig. Gen. JOHNSON HAGOOD, Adams Run, S. C. :
Hold about 1,000 infantry in readiness (provided and supplied as pre
viously directed) to move by rail to Pocotaligo at a moment's notice.
THOMAS JORDAN,
Chief of Staff.
CHARLESTON, S. C., October 22, 1862.
Brig. Gen. JOHNSON HAGOOD, Adams Run, 8. C. :
Dispatch the force to Pocotaligo as soon as transportation is ready.
THoMAS JORDAN,
Chief of Staff.
CHARLESTON, S. C., October 22, 1862.
Brig. Gen. JOHNSON HAGOOD, Adams Run, S. C. :
Of course send off any troops for which you have transportation. As
G50 COASTS OF S C ., GA., AND MID. AND I AST FLA. [CHAP. XXVI.
soon as the troops here shall have been disembarked at Pocotaligo trans
portation will be sent for you. See your last troops off and be ready to
move with them.
THOMAS JORDAN,
Chief of Staff.
CHARLESTON, S. C., October 22, 1862.
General G. T. BEAUREGARD, Savannah, Ga.:
Under circumstances reported by Colonel Walker have directed re-en
forcements held ready to be sent him from Eipley's command. Await
your final orders.
THOMAS JOED AN,
Chief of Staff.
SAVANNAH, GA., October 22, 1862—5 p. m.
Brig. Gen. THOMAS JORDAN,
Chief of Staff, Charleston, S. C. :
Send re-enforcements to Pocotaligo or to Salkehatchie Bridge to re
port to Col. VV. S. Walker : also one operator with the troops.
G. T. BEAUEEGAED.
SAVANNAH, GA., October 22, 1862—7 p. m.
Col. C. J. COLCOCK, Grahamville, S. G.:
Make a reconnaissance with disposable force toward Bee's Creek to
ascertain position and movements of the enemy, and, if possible, make
a dash at him.
G. T. BEAUEEGAED.
CHARLESTON, S. C., October 22, 1862.
General G. T. BEAUREGA.RD,
Savannah, Ga., via Augusta :
Have ordered the forces here and at Adams Run (previously directed
to be held in readiness) to move to re-enforce AValker at Pocotaligo.
Walker reports enemy in possession of railroad at Coosawhatchie. Let
me know where you are.
THOMAS JOEDAK,
Chief of Staff.
SAVANNAH, GA., October 22, 1862—9 p. m.
Brig. Gen. THOMAS JORDAN,
Chief of Staff, Charleston, S. C.:
All right ; I will await here the result. Walker reports driving back
the enemy.
G. T. BEAUEEGAED.
SAVANNAH, GA., October 22, 1862—10 p. m.
Col. C. J. COLCOCK, Grahamville, S. C. :
Troops are being sent to-night to support Colonel Harrison or to cut
CIIAI-. XXVL] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC CONFEDERATE. 651
off retreat of enemy on Bee's Creek ; circumstances must decide. Wait
to act with them, but send scouts toward Bee's Creek.
G. T. BEAUEEGAED.
SAVANNAH, GA., October 22, 1862—10.30 p. m.
Col. W. S. WALKER, Pocotaligo, 8. C. :
Would it not be preferable to send the two additional regiments and
one battery with Colcock's cavalry to cut oil' enemy's retreat at Bee's
Creek 2 Ee-enforcemeuts are being sent you from Charleston. Answer.
G. T. BEAUEEGAED.
SPECIAL ORDERS, \ HDQRS. FIRST MILITARY DIST. OF S. C.,
No. 5. | Charleston, October 22, 1862.
I. Brig. Gen. S. E. Gist will proceed immediately with three regi
ments and a light battery of his command to Pocotaligo to re enforce
the troops in that vicinity now threatened by the enemy. The command
will move without baggage and take three days' cooked provisions.
II. Brigadier-General Gist will give such instructions to the com
manding officer on James Island as may be necessary for the public
service during his absence.
E. S. EIPLEY,
Brigadier- General. Commanding.
CHARLESTON, S. C., October 22, 1862.
General G. T. BEAUREGARD. Savannah, Ga. :
Hagood and Gist will be on the spot with their forces before dawn.
Troops moving rapidly.
THOMAS JOEDAN,
Chief of Staff.
CHARLESTON, S. C., October 22, 1862.
Col. W. S. WALKER,
Commanding, Pocotaligo, 8. C. :
Hold your gound at your position. General Gist has started with
about 2,000 men to re-enforce you, besides re-enforcements from General
Hagood's command. Fight at every bridge.
THOMAS JOED AN,
Chief of Staff.
CHARLESTON, S. C., October 22, 1862.
Col. W. S. WALKER,
Commanding, Pocotaligo, 8. C. :
Ee enforcements are on the way. Have the road watched, so that the
proper point of disembarkation of troops may be made known to trains
as they arrive,
THOMAS JOEDAN,
Chief of Staff.
652 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVL
CHARLESTON, S. C., October 23, 1862.
FRANCIS W. PICKENS,
Governor of South Carolina, Columbia, 8. C. :
General Beauregard absent at Savannah. Aflair-at Pocotaligo appar
ently over. Enemy reported to have re-embarked.
THOMAS JORDAN,
Chief of Staff.
SAVANNAH, GA., October 23, 1862.
Col. W. S. WALKER, Pocotaligo, S. C. :
The two additional regiments and batteries left here before your
telegram was received. They are at your disposal on the road.
G. T. BEAUREGABD.
SAVANNAH, GA., October 23, 1862—12 p. m.
General S. COOPER, Adjt. and Insp. Gen., Richmond, Va. :
I must call the attention of the department to the necessity for more
troops from Eantowles Creek to Savannah River, a distance of 75 miles,
only about 2,500 men being available for that purpose. Colonel Walker
deserves promotion for meritorious services, and, moreover, when re-
enlorcements are sent to him he is ranked by the colonel commanding
them.
G. T. BEAUREGARD,
General, Commanding.
HDQRS. FIRST MILITARY DIST. OF SOUTH CAROLINA,
: Charleston, S. C., October 25, 1862.
Brig. Gen. THOMAS JORDAN, Chief of Staff:
GENERAL : Special Orders, No. 195, current series, from department
headquarters, directs me to call on the commanding general for the men
and material that I may find necessary for a prolonged and successful re
sistance to any attack which the resources of the enemy may enable him
to make.
Did no other reasons than those purely military advise an attack on
Charleston by the enemy it would be easy to estimate the force and
material necessary to check him. Thus far this vicinity has been com
paratively safe, and it is clear to my mind that no attack would have
been made had not the abandonment of the mouth of the Stono River
invited the attack. It had been my intention, when formerly in com
mand here, to hold it and continue to fortify, believing that such occu
pation would have thrown the base of the enemy's operations to the
Edisto, keeping much difficult ground and several rivers between him
and the city, and materially lessened the number of men necessary for the
defense from any approach by land. The mouth of the Stono, however,
being in possession of the enemy, giving him a base of operations within
a few miles of the city, necessitates the occupation of our extensive lines
and works on James Island and a constant vigilance by a very consid
erable force. With regard to the men and material necessary to insure
a prolonged and successful resistance in that direction 1 beg to refer to
the statement of Brigadier-General Gist, commanding, which I agree
with, The force which he calls for will undoubtedly be necessary if the
CHAI-. XXV1.J CORRESPONDENCE^ ETC. CONFEDERATE. 653
attack is made by land and sea. Still it may be doubte'd whether the
enemy can immediately spare the number of troops from his armies in
the North and West for the attack here, and as the possession of this
city would give him moral rather than military advantages in the pros
ecution of the war, it may well be believed that our greatest danger lies
in a naval attack by his iron-clad fleet, so soon as it can be prepared for
service. The means of defense which we have against such an attack
are well known to the commanding general. Our fortifications, strength
ened and increased as they have been, are formidable, and may suffice
against an attack of wooden vessels. Against iron-clad vessels, however,
the case is different. If they succeed in making a rendezvous inside the
bar it is probable that they can at once run past the forts and open fire
on the city. The means which first occur for preventing their passage,
obstructing the passage between Forts Sumter and Moultrie, have been
tried, and I regret to say that up to this time have not succeeded. Some
thing of the same kind was tried when I was in command and held for
a while in the position where parts of the lately constructed boom are
now lying, but the same obstacles were encountered in making 'the ob
structions permanent. I had determined to give up the lower position
and obstruct the upper channels between the shoals, nearer the city,
where the force of the tide is much less and where the holding ground
is good and secure. That we may have the benefit of obstructions to
some extent I would recommend that when those having the matter in
charge are satisfied that the lower boom is impracticable the material
may be used for blocking the harbor in the channels between Fort John
son and the Middle Ground, between Middle Ground and Crab Bank
and Hog Island Channel, near Sullivan's Island. This would delay the
enemy under fire of the outer forts and be of some utility. I fear that
laying it in sections or placing it in any way between Sumter and Moul
trie will be absolutely useless.
Preparations for explosive obstructions in the channels, I under
stand, are in progress, but I have not learned of their having been so
far advanced as to assist in the defense of the harbor. The main de
fense at the command of the military authorities, therefore, consists in
the forts and batteries around the harbor.
Requisitions have been made by the commanding general for an ad
ditional supply of heavy ordnance, comprising some fifty heavy guns,
with their proper ammunition. I believe the requisitions have been
approved at Eichmond, and that they will be supplied so far as the
means at the command of the Government will admit. These, how
ever, are limited and transportation slow. I do not think it of any
use to make requisition for material until those requisitions are filled.
It will of course be advisable to strengthen even then ; for delay, if ac
corded us, will of course strengthen the enemy also.
I will briefly notice the works for the defense of the harbor and state
what additional force is, in my opinion, necessary, and what disposition
of means at hand and already acquired would be advisable.
Morris Island : The work extending across the island at a distance of
about 2,400 yards from Fort Sumter protects the island to the south
ward, and will while held effectually prevent the erection of batteries
against that castle. It has five guns mounted and two others waiting
for carriages. The garrison consists of two companies of artillery and
Col. R. F. Graham's regiment of infantry. The position, in my opinion,
requires an addition ot'jfcwo or more long-range guns to enable the gar
rison to reach transports lying" inside the bar. It also requires a light
battery of four pieces. The garrison, with the addition of one company
654 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAI-. XXVI.
of artillery, will be sufficient to hold its position for a long time, the
works being completed. This is being done, and it is hoped will be
pushed forward rapidly.
Breach Inlet Battery, Sullivan's Island, mounts eight guns, for the
protection of the narrow inlet east of Sullivan's Island. It is manned
by one company of South Carolina Infantry and supported by two com
panies of the Twentieth South Carolina Volunteers. Its position is
quite strong, and vessels will have to lay some distance from the shore
in cannonading it. It would be very difficult for them to shell the gar
rison out or dismount the guns, and still more for them to land under
the. fire. The works are being strengthened. The addition of a long-
range rifled gun would be desirable.
The Beauregard Battery, Sullivan's Island, mounting six guns, of
which but two are of use against a naval attack or landing, protects
Fort Moul trie from a land approach. Its- present artillery garrison is
sufficient for its guns. The addition of a long-range gun is desirable.
The execution of work on the sea flank has been ordered but not com
menced, and obstructions in front of the work are desirable.
The works noticed above are the outworks for our harbor defenses,
and are serviceable in preventing the land approaches of the enemy by
Morris or Sullivan's Islands. Properly fought they will retard these
attacks as much as outworks can be expected to do.
Fort Moultrie, Sullivan's Island, mounting thirty-seven guns, com
manding the various channels and crossing fire with Fort Sumter, is
old and of not very high command. Nevertheless it would be very
efficient against any wooden vessels. Its only effect against iron-clad
ships would be from the shock of its full b ittery, if well served. I
would at this time suggest nothing except the banding and rifling of
six smooth-bore 32-pounders now on the water faces of the fort. The
garrison could hardly be increased with advantage.
Enfilade Batteries, Sullivan's Island, now armed with five 10-inch and
one 8 inch coluuibiads, are very powerful, intended to mount four ad
ditional heavy guns and are in process of completion. It is to be hoped
that they will be finished and armed. The garrison will require in
creasing by another company when the armament is finished.
A battery of light artillery and the Twentieth South Carolina Vol
unteers are on the island for support of the various positions. As an
infantry attack or landing on the island is doubtful, certainly until
after a long and continued cannonade, it would seem to me uuadvisable
to increase the permanent garrison of the island. The location of the
troops outside of the forts in case of a naval attack is to be in the Beau-
regard Battery and behind the sand hills to the eastward to prevent a
landing west of Breach Inlet. The light battery would be with the
troops behind the sand hills. These positions must be varied accord
ing to the discretion of the commanding officer.
It would be well perhaps to have a body of troops stationed at Mount
Pleasant in reserve, for the support of the troops on Sullivan's Island,
service in Christ Church and vicinity, and the support of works pro
jected at Hobcaw. I would think two full regiments desirable, with a
battalion of cavalry and two batteries of light artillery, if possible, of
long range. ^
Fort Sumter being the main defense of the channel requires and is
receiving especial attention. The barbette batteries are becoming ex
ceedingly heavy, and in my opinion should be strengthened by as many
10 inch guns as can be procured. I should advise that all the 32-
pounders which may be fit should be rifled and banded and supplied
CHAI-. XXVI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. CONFEDERATE. Gf)5
with bolt shot for iron-clad boats as soou as possible, and that the case
mates in the second tier should be armed with rifled pieces as soon as
they are embrasured. Ten-inch guns would be preferable, but it is feared
would be too heavy for the arch. Three 10-inch mortars in the fort re
quire new beds; those which they have are useless unless provided with
elevating screws. A cupola, now constructing under the supervision of
the Ordnance Department ior filling shells with molten iron, is slowly
being completed. Much of the engineer work lags, and under present
arrangement all that can be done by the commanding officer is to re
port. I would suggest that the officers of the different departments
may be instructed to push the work on this fort and supply the material
required as speedily as may be.
Should the obstructions be moved to the inner harbor heavy guns on
the western face of Fort Sumter will be very necessary. They could
be obtained from the requisitions already in when supplied. The gar
rison will want two more companies.
Fort Johnson, James Island, now armed with two guns, will become
important when the obstructions are placed in the inner harbor. Fort
Eipley, on the Middle Ground, will also require the guns which have
been called for. These and the other projected works in the interior
harbor will require a full regiment of artillerists.
Powerful auxiliaries to the defense of the harbor are the iron-clad
gunboats of the Navy. Properly manned, they wift assist in the greatest
degree in increasing the chances of a successful defense, and it is to be
hoped that no exertion will be spared to assist their efficiency.
For a prolonged resistance our powder and other ammunition is not
sufficient, not being more than 100 rounds per gun. It should be in
creased by 150,000 pounds of powder at least, if it were possible.
I append a recapitulation of increased force, as estimated by General
Gist and myself as desirable. +
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
E. S. EIPLEY,
Brigadier- General, Commanding.
[Inclosure No. 1.]
HDQRS. FBRST MILITARY DIST. OF SOUTH CAROLINA,
. Charleston, October 25, 1862.
Increase of numerical force called for by Brig. Gen. S. E. Gist.
For defense of James Island and the main :
Of all arms 17,661
One light artillery 100
One company artillery 100
200
For Morris Island :
One company artillery for Enfilade Battery 100
Sullivan's Island:
Two regiments infantry 2, 000
One battalion cavalry 400
Two light batteries 200
2,600
For Mount Pleasant :
One regiment artillery for works in progress 1,000
Total numerical increase called for 21, 561
E. S. EIPLEY,.
Brigadier- General, Commanding.
656 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND Mil). AND EAST FLA. [CIIAI-.
[Inclosure No. 2.]
HEADQUARTERS JAMES ISLAND AND THE MAIN,
Charleston, S. (7., October 19, 18(>2.
Brig. Gen. E. S. RIPLEY,
Commanding First Military Dislrict of South Carolina :
GENERAL : In compliance with your request that I should report
what additional forces are necessary to a proper defense of the city of
Charleston from an attack by way of James Island and the main-land,
I have the honor to submit the inclosed estimate, which I consider as
absolutely essential.
In submitting this report I would respectfully call your attention to
the want of heavy artillerists. We have several important batteries
completed on the main-laud that are without guns or artillerists. The
guns might be supplied of the caliber 12 and 24 pounders, but we
would have no artillerists to man them.
I submit a statement of the present effective force and of what addi
tional forces are necessary against an attack by a force not exceeding
30,000 men.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
S. E. GIST,
Brigadier- General, Commanding.
tlnclosure No. 3.]
Statement of forces required for a proper defense of Charleston by way of
James Island and the main- land.
James Island :
Infantry 6,000
Art illery 1 , 500
Cavalry 200
7, 700
City of Charleston :
Infantry 2,500
Artillery 250
Cavalry 150
() t)00
Defense of the main movable column :
Infantry .- 10,000
Artillery 750
Cavalry 500
11, 250
21,850
STATEMENT OF EFFECTIVE FORCES.
James Island :
Infantry 1,680
Artillery 1}085
Cavalry 145
2, 910
City of Charleston and the main :
Infantry 906
Artillery 190
Cavalry 183
1,279
Total 4,189
CHAP. XXVI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. CONFEDERATE. 657
HDQRS. DEPT. SOUTH CAROLINA, GEORGIA, AND FLORIDA,
Savannah, October 28, 1862.
Brig. Gen. H. W. MERCER,
Commanding District of Georgia^ Savannah, Oa. :
GENERAL : Before leaving on my return to Charleston I think it ad
visable to leave with you a summary of the additions and changes I
have ordered, to the works intended for the defense of this city, and
which ought to be executed as promptly as practicable, commencing
with those on the river and at Carston's Bluff.
1st. The magazines of several of the river batteries must be thoroughly
drained at once and repaired. They are now unfit for use on account
of their dampness, and the one at Battery Law ton has not yet been com
menced. The position selected for it is too far to the rear. It should be
closer to the battery, and well drained. Not a moment should be lost in
its construction. The service magazine should have its entrance en
larged and strengthened at the top. The magazine doors at Fort Jack
son do not open freely ; this defect must be corrected.
2d. Good and strong traverses must be constructed as directed in the
naval battery to prevent enfilading.
3d. The two 8-iuch columbiads on Fort Jackson must be separated,
and one of the barbette 32- pounders removed for a traverse to be con
structed in its place ; must be put in position outside, in rear of the
glacis, to fire down the river.
4th. Those river works when garrisoned must always be provided
with several days' provisions on hand.
5th. The mortar chamber in Captain Lama's battery is too small; the
mortar should be mounted as soon as practicable and the men drilled to it.
6th. It would be important, if practicable, to lay a boom obstruction
across the river at or near Hutchinson Island under the guns of its
battery and of Fort Boggs, and a three or four gun battery should also
be constructed at Screven's Ferry Landing.
7th. Carston's Bluff must be made an inclosed work, with two mortars
and four additional heavy guns added to its armament. Two of these
guns must be placed so as to bear up the Augustine River.
8th. A three-gun battery must be constructed at Greenwich Point, on
Augustine Kiver, to cross fire with the two guns just referred to and
enfilade the enemy's batteries on Whiternarsh Island, constructed
against Carston's Bluff.
9tb, One rifled 32-pounder must be added to the Thunderbolt Battery,
and one of its 8-inch shell guns must be changed in position as ordered,
and the embrasure of its 8-inch columbind must be reduced in size.
Several traverses must be raised and lengthened. The upper slope
of the battery in front of several of its guns must be increased.
10th. A new battery for four 24-pounder howitzers on siege carriages,
with some rifle pits, must be constructed to command the Isle of Hope
Causeway.
llth. Several of the guns of Fort Boggs and battery at Beaulieu are
in want of elevating screws, and some in the latter battery require
smaller trunnion plates, and the upper slope of its parapet must be
lowered in several places.
12th. A new battery and rifle pits must be constructed on Rosedew
Island for five or six pieces, of which one or two should be rifled guns,
so as to command the Little Ogeechee. One rifled 24-pouuder is already
on its way to this city from Atlanta for said work.
13th. Two rifled guns (one 32-pounder and one 24-pouuder) must be
42 R R — VOL xiv
658 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA [CHAV. XXVI.
added to the work on Genesis Point, and one of its 32-ponnders must
be changed in position, as ordered, to rake the piling across the river.
Its traverses must be raised and lengthened, and a mortar constructed
to protect the two 32-pounders now raking the obstruction from being
enfiladed. Its magazines must be better protected, and its hot-shot
furnace reconstructed as ordered. A more efficient commander than
the present one would, I think, be required for this important position,
and whoever is sent there should visit first the work at Beaulieu to see
its fine condition.
14th. A proper sunken battery should be constructed for the protection
of the men and horses of all light batteries intended for the defense of
water courses. This applies especially to the light batieries now on
the Little and Great Ogeechee.
15th. No provocation of the enemy's gunboats to draw the fire of our
batteries should induce officers in command to waste in return their
ammunition. They should reserve their fire until the enemy conies
within point-blank range cf a 32-pounder, placing meanwhile all the
garrison under close cover. When they fire let them open simulta
neously with all their guns upon the foremost vessel, in order to sink
it, aiming rather low.
16th. Two mortars have been ordered from Charleston for Fort Jack
son and Carston's Bluff to fire on river obstructions, and in respect to
the latter battery to fire also on Whitemarsh Island. They must be
placed in position as soon as they shall have arrived and provided with
ammunition, &c., and a detail of men drilled at them regularly.
17th. Ship-Yard Creek, in rear of Beaulieu, must be guarded by a light
battery, as already indicated for the Little and Great Ogeechee.
18th. Signal stations must be established forthwith to communicate
with each other at Genesis Point, Eosedew Island, Beaulieu, the Isle
of Hope Causeway, Thunderbolt, Carston's Bluff, Fort Jackson, Fort
Boggs, and the city.
19th. The two large observatories or spindles toward the mouth of
Savannah River must be destroyed forthwith for fear of their falling
into the hands of the enemy uninjured.
20th. Brigade drills must be commenced at once wherever practicable,
iiud regiments must not be armed with weapons of more than two dif
ferent calibers, to prevent confusion in providing them with ammunition.
21st. The male residents of this city not liable to conscription must be
•organized at once by the civil authorities for the defense of their homes
and firesides (in case of an attack upon the city) into companies and
regiments. They will thus afford material assistance to the Confederate
troops in the defense of Savannah.
22d. Ample provision must be made by the civil authorities for the
removal of the women and children to a safe locality outside of the city,
the farther the better. This removal should take place on the first ap
pearance of real danger.
23d. A sufficient number of switch-lock keys should be provided at
railroad depots for immediate use in case of necessity.
24th. The Georgia Central Railroad will furnish a' reserve train, to be
stationed at Ashley Kiver Depot, for the purpose ot conveying troops
without delay from Charleston to the South Carolina lower parishes or to
Georgia. Another one will be held in readiness at the depot of the Cen
tral Railroad in this city for the purpose of conveying troops toward
Charleston when required.
25th. The troops of this district must be vaccinated gradually.
26th. The woods of the island fronting the outworks must be cut
down as soon as possible wherever in too dangerous proximity.
CHAP. XXVI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. CONFEDERATE.
659
27th. The city must always be provided with at least fifteen days7
provisions for 10,000 men, with the same quantity in a convenient depot,
not nearer than 30 miles from the city, along the Central Railroad, so
as to be beyond the reach of the enemy in every contingency.
28th. Ample supply of fuel should be made for the steamboats and
for the troops forming the garrison of the city.
29th. The city authorities must see that the supply of water be ample
for all emergencies in case of a bombardment.
Respectfully, vour obedient servant,
G. T. BEAUREGARD,
General, Commanding.
P. S. — It is ordered that all laborers employed on the interior of the
city lines of defenses, except those employed on the magazines, should
be at once concentrated; first on the salient faces of the advanced
lunettes and cremailleres, except those from Fort Mercer inclusive to
Fort Brown, then on the salient faces of the retired lunettes or redans,
then on the shoulder faces of the first class and afterward of the sec
ond. The banquettes of Fort Brown must be put forthwith in proper
condition. No labor must be expended on the finish of the above works,
which must be put, with their batteries, magazines, &c., in a fighting
condition as soon as possible, even if we should have to work day and
night. Should you not have laborers enough for such a purpose you
must call on the Governor of the State for additional ones. I earnestly •
request that the utmost activity should be shown in every department
of the service, so as to be ready in time for any intended attack of the
enemy. I have called for five 10-inch or 13-inch mortars and twenty
heavy or long-range guns (five 10-inch and five 8 inch coluinbiads, five
42-pdrs. rifled, and five 32-pdrs. rifled), which will be distributed to the
best advantage when received on river defenses and line of outworks.
Armament of interior line of works 0J Savannah, Ga., October 28, 1862.
Batteries.
8-inch siege
howitzers.
42-pounder
carronades.
32-pouuders,
long.
32-pounders,
short navy.
32-pounder
carronades.
30-pounders,
long.
Id)
P
a
24-pounder
howitzers.
'cs
•g
H
Remarks.
"No 1
]
1
2
No 2
1
No 3
i
No 4
1
No 5
1
i
1
No 6
1
No 7
1
No. 8
1
No 9
i
Reamed out from
No 10
1
24-pounder.
No 11
1
No 12
i
No 13
1
No 14
~N"o 15
1
"Not yet mounted
No 16
1
No 17
1
No 18
i
.Reamed out from
2
i
3
24-pounder
C'r&maill&re between Fort
2
*2
i
1
6
Mercer and Fort Brown.
Fort Brown
4
*1
i
6
Cedar Hill
1
i
2
Total number of guns.
]
2
3
6
6
7
5
4
37
Beamed out.
660
COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CIIAP. XXVI.
Names of 'batteries, with number of guns and caliber, in the ouhvorks and river defenses of
Savannah.
Batteries.
Mortars, 10-inch.
Columbiads.
Smooth-bore guns.
Eifled guns.
Blakely, 24-pounder.
06
(3
a
fcC
"* a
ce
ja
.2
o
0
a
06
42-pounder.
i
18-pounder
32-pounder
5
o
o
S
2
2
2
2
1
1
7
7
1
7
7
3
1
2
3
2
2
1
1
Navil Battery
2
13 'ty Batteries
*2
1
2
3
Cirston's BlutF Battery
4
Fort Bo^^s
1
i
14
Beaiilieu Battery
2
1
5
5
1
1
Total number of guns
6
5
13
7
63
1
1
1
1
2
2
* Not yet in position, but will be in a few days.
Eespectfully submitted.
A. T. CUNNINGHAM,
First Lieutenant, Artillery and Ordnance.
Official:
THOMAS JOED AN, Chief of Staff.
HDQRS. THIRD EEGT. CAVALRY SOUTH CAROLINA VOLS.,
Qrahamville, October 30, 1802.
Brigadier-General JORDAN,
Chief of Staff and Assistant Adjutant- General :
SIR: I have the honor of calling jour attention to the limited number
of troops in the district of country extending from the Coosawhatchie
Kiver to the Oketie, a distance by a direct line of 25 miles (which of
course is greatly increased by the coast line), which I have the honor to
command, under Colonel Walker. Within this section of country are
two prominent points to be defended: The village of Grahamville and
the railroad and turnpike bridges over the Coosawhatchie liiver. The
first is only 7 miles from a point at which the Abolitionists can land ;
the second only 2. To perform the picket duty and protect this section
from incursions of the Abolitionists 1 have five companies of cavalry,
four of infantry (three of which do not average over 40 men), and one
small company of artillery. Coosawhatchie being our weakest point,
most of these forces are stationed in its immediate vicinity, and the
other portion of the country is left comparatively unprotected.
The partial success which the Abolitionists met with in having reached
the road at Coosawhatchie will doubtless induce them to direct their
next attack to that point, which will probably be combined with a simul
taneous movement toward this place. You will please bring these facts
to the attention of General Beauregard, with the most earnest request
that he will send me an efficient company of artillery, two more com
panies of cavalry, and two of infantry. With these re-enforceinents
and a little time to complete some field works we have in hand I think
I
CHAP. XXVI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. CONFEDERATE. 661
we can drive back any reasonable force the Abolitionists may bring
against us.
Permit me to request that the general, in assigning the two cavalry
companies, if he be pleased to grant my petition, will do me the favor
to select two of three companies belonging to my regiment, which are
stationed near Charleston, viz : Captain Cordes' company, on James
Island; the Eebel Troop; Captain Seabrook's company, at Adams Eun,
and Captain CampbelPs company, at Jacksonborough Ferry.
I have the honor to remain, with great respect, your obedient servant,
C. J. COLCOCK,
Commanding Post.
SPECIAL ORDERS, ) HDQRS.DEPT. EAST AND MIDDLE FLORIDA,
No. 1342. / Gainesville, October 30, 1862.
Captain Dickison will remove all negroes having no owners with
them and free negroes from the Saint John's River into the interior
at a safe distance from the enemy, and place them in charge of some
white person, to be held subject to their owners7 orders, and in case of
free negroes to be left in their own charge, subject to the laws of the
State.
By order of Brigadier-General Finegan :
W. CALL,
Captain and Assistant Adjutant- General.
HDQRS. DEPT. OF SOUTH CAROLINA AND GEORGIA,
Charleston, 8. C., October 31, 1862.
Hon. S. E. MALLORY,
Secretary of tlie Navy, Richmond, Va. :
SIR: On my return yesterday from Savannah I found here your letter
of the 20th instant. I thank you for the prompt and favorable support
you have given me in the desire to construct one of Capt. F. D. Lee's
marine torpedo rams, which I think is destined ere long to change the
system of naval warfare, for it is evident that if ships are constructed
invulnerable above water they must be attacked under it, where most
vulnerable. I confidently believe that with three of these light-draught
torpedo rams and as many iron-clad gunboat-rams this harbor could
be held against any naval force of the enemy, who could never bring
here seaworthy iron-clad gunboats or steamers of light draught that
could withstand the destructive effects of our harbor rams. The same
means can also be used (with one less of each class) for Savannah and
Mobile.
I wish it understood, however, that I never desired to remove the con
struction of that torpedo ram from the competent naval officer in com
mand of this station. All that I desired was to see it afloat and ready
for action as soon as possible.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
G. T. BEAUEEGAED,
General, Commanding.
662 COASTS OF S. C., GA.? AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVI.
HDQRS. DEFT. OF SOUTH CAROLINA AND GEORGIA,
Charleston, S. 0., November 1, 18G2.
General S. COOPER,
Adjutant and Inspector General C. 8. A., Richmond, Va. :
GENERAL: As reported in iny indorsement, dated October 19, 18G2,
on a communication of Captain McCrady's, having become satisfied that
the defenses of Savannah demanded my immediate attention, I repaired
to that point on the 19th and remained there until the 30th ult. Mean
time having made a careful examination of the entire works constructed
or under construction, the following report is now submitted — not as an
unnecessary criticism of what has been done or planned, but for the in
formation of the War Department, and I may add that I submit this
paper rather as an ex-engineer officer than as the commanding general
of the department.
The system adopted for the defense of Savannah may be divided into
three Hues.
1st. The defense of the Savannah River.
2d. The line of outworks covering the approaches to the city.
3d. An interior line of works around the place. The first line consists
of the pile and crib work constructed at the northern extremity of Elba
Island, about 4 miles below Savannah and from 1£ to 1J miles below
Fort Jackson; of batteries Lee, Law ton, and the naval battery; Fort
Boggs and Hutchinson Island Battery, about 1^ miles below the city,
and of Bay Battery, immediately at the lower extremity of the town.
Fort Boggs, forming also a part of the interior line of defense against
a land attack, has nine guns bearing on the river and five on the land
approaches. The works of this line have a total of forty-seven guns
and eight 10-inch mortars defending the river approach, but fifteen of
which, however, are of heavy calibers; that is, 42-pounders and 8 and
10 inch columbiads; and of these it should be stated only thirteen
guns and five mortars bear on the obstructions. In addition, the bat
tery at Carston's Bluif, quite 2 miles from the obstructions, has two
8-inch columbiads bearing on them at that long range.
From the foregoing it will be apparent that the obstructions are too
far removed from the works for their defense to be adequately protected
by the small number of heavy guns bearing upon them, especially in
view of the fact that the enemy's iron-clads of a certainty will be able
at night or in a fog to work deliberately at their destruction.
The second line of works will now be considered, and which is made
up as follows:
1st. Of a six-gun battery, of two 8-inch columbiads and four 32-
pounders, at Carston's Bluff, on the Saint Augustine Kiver, through
which 15 feet of water can be carried 4 miles from Savannah.
2d. Of a twelve-gun battery, of two 8-iuch columbiads, two 42-pound
ers, seven 32-pounders, and one 24-pounder rifled gun, at Thunderbolt,
on the Wassaw Kiver, some <i miles from the city.
3d. Of an eight-gun battery, of two 42-pounders, five 32-pounders, and
one rifled 12-pounder, at Beaulieu,on Vernon Kiver, some 12 miles dis
tant from Savannah, and to which 17 feet of water can be carried.
4th. Of a seven-gun battery, of one 8-inch columbiad, one 42-pounder,
and five 32-pounders, at Genesis Point, on the Great Ogeechee River,
about 25 miles from the city, and to which place 20 feet of water can
be carried. But besides the approaches thus defended there are two
other important landing places and routes of approach to Savannah
which 1 find have been left nearly unfortified, to wit, the Isle of Hope
CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. — CONFEDERATE. G63
Causeway, about 8 miles from the city, and Eosedew Island, or Coffee
Bluff, 11 or 12 miles from the city, on the Little Ogeechee, which is
guarded, without field works, by a light battery of six guns and one
rifled 6 pounder piece. At the Isle of Hope Causeway a short line of
rifle pits (with a position fora field gun) have been thrown up. It
must be evident that should any one-of these outworks lall into the
hands of the enemy all the rest can betaken in reverse and must neces
sarily be evacuated at once, or else a battle must be fought outside of
our interior line of defenses to maintain the line of outworks, which is
contrary to the clear interests of the defenders, who must be supposed
to be much inferior in numbers to the assailants. The enemy being
then in possession of the line of outworks would establish a number of
heavy batteries from Carston's Bluff toward Fort Boggs, from which
he would completely command the first line of batteries on the river,
namely, Fort Jackson and Batteries Lee and Lawton and the naval
battery, the two first being taken directly in rear at a distance of from
1£ to 1 J miles.
Fort Jackson, I will remark, is a very weak old work; its masonry
scarp being almost entirely exposed to the enemy's heavy guns on the
river, and its flanks and rear loop-holed brick walls, some 2 feet thick
and 25 feet high, are exposed almost to their foundations to the enemy's
batteries from the line already indicated. It is my opinion that so
defective a work could not resist more than a few hours' cannonade. It
must follow therefore that the enemy would not be long in silencing the
works on the river which command the obstructions, which last could
then be removed at leisure, leaving the river open to the fleet to the
immediate vicinity of the city, or until arriving under fire of the Hutch-
inson Island Battery of three 32-pounders, of the Bay Battery of one
8-iuch columbiad, three 32 pounders, and two 10-inch mortars, and of
Fort Boggs, on the bluff, three-quarters of a mile from the channel,
armed with one 10-inch columbiad, seven 32-pounders, and one 10-inch
mortar; that is, in all, fifteen guns and three mortars, which could not
be expected to interpose a substantial obstruction or delay the enemy
long in his passage to the city, in which event the garrison of the city
would be exposed in the rear to the enemy's heavy naval armament and
in front to an invading land force, and consequently the contest, if at
tempted, would scarcely be of long duration.
Thus it is clear the safety of Savannah is made to depend upon the
fate of the line of outworks, which in military engineering are only in
tended as subsidiaries to delay the movements of the enemy until the
necessary preparations are made in the main work to repel successfully
the impending attack, just as pickets and advanced guards of an army
are thrown out to arrest the movements of an enemy until the army,
duly warned of the advance, can take up positions in line of battle. If
the line of obstructions had been placed near the lower extremity of
Hutdiinson Island, immediately under the guns of the battery at that
point and those of Fort Boggs and of two revolving iron-clad laud
batteries, one on the western and the other on the eastern bank, near
Sere ven's Ferry Landing, the objections and hazard just exposed incoi)-^
nection with the existing line of obstructions and neighboring river
batteries would have been entirely obviated, while by the construction
of two strong field works on the river bluff in advance of Fort Boggs,
to secure a plunging fire on and take the enemy's fleet in the rear should
an attempt be made to remove the obstructions, the line of our works
could at any time be evacuated without endangering the safety of the
city, for in that case they would only be required to perform their legiti-
664 COASTS OF S. C., GA,, AND MID. A^7D EAST FLA. [CHAP. XXVI.
mate duty — that of holding the enemy's land forces at [bay ?] until our
troops, composing the garrison of the city, could be collected, possibly
re-enforced, and placed in position to resist the onset.
The third or interior line of works embraces a system of detached
forts, lunettes, redans, and cremailtires lines, extending from Fort
Boggs on the left to Laurel Grove Cemetery on the right, where it
rests on the inundations on that flank. This line is some 4£ miles
long and averages about 1§ miles from the center of the city. The
armament of these works, exclusive of Fort Boggs, consists of thirty-
six guns; that is, two 42, fifteen 32, seven 30, four 24, and four 18
pounders, and four 8-iuch siege howitzers. The profile is stronger arid
the several works are somewhat closer together, in my opinion, than
was necessary, considering the relative importance of having the whole
line completed rapidly. As constructed only about two-thirds of the
system have been completed. Fortunately that portion of the ground
left incomplete offers naturally good defensive features, of which ad
vantage may be taken in case of need.
Although as a whole the system of defensive works adopted is most
defective, in my opinion it is too near completion to resort to a new
one at this late day, when at any moment our powerful enemy may be
looked for. I have therefore sought, as far as practicable, for reme
dies, to which end I have directed the construction of an inclosed
work at Carstou's Bluff, the addition of two guns bearing up the
Saint Augustine River, and one 10-inch mortar, and the erection of a
battery for three guns at Greenwich Point, on the Saint Augustine
River, to gain a cross-fire with the two guns added at Carston's Bluff.
A battery for four pieces (24-pounder howitzers) has likewise been
ordered to command the Isle of Hope Causeway, and another, of five
heavier guns, of which one shall be a rifled 24-pouuder, has been di
rected to be thrown up on Rosedew Island, to command the Little
Ogeechee. Additional traverses have been ordered in some of the
river batteries, and one 10-inch mortar will be added to the armament
of Fort Jackson, to bear on the obstructions. The defective maga
zines of these batteries will also be put in proper condition at once.
Finally, it is my duty to state that I regard it as absolutely indispen
sable for a stout, defense of Savannah that there should be added to
the armament of the most important works at least twenty guns of
the following calibers: say, five 10-inch and five 8-inch columbiads,
and five 42 and five 32 pounder rifled pieces.
The garrison and forces to maintain the works, now some 7,700 effect
ive men of all arms, must be strengthened to at least 10,000 infantry,
2,000 cavalry, 1,200 heavy artillerists, and eight field batteries, the esti
mate of my immediate predecessor, which I accept as the minimum force
required. Thus prepared, any attack of the enemy may be hopefully
encountered, despite the defective system upon which,' unfortunately,
the defenses of Savannah have been* planned and constructed.
All of which is respectfully submitted.
G. T. BEAUREGARD,
General, Commanding.
HDQRS. DEPT. OF SOUTH CAROLINA AND GEORGIA,
Charleston, $. C., November 3, 1802.
Capt. D. N. INGRAHAM,
C. 8. Navy, Comag. C. S. Naval Forces, Charleston, S. C. :
CAPTAIN: You will greatly oblige by furnishing, on the requisition
CHAP. XXVI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. CONFEDERATE. 6G5
of Dr. Cheves, 300 pieces of gunboat plating, from 2 to 3 feet long, for
use in connection with the boom. Let me also suggest that the three
ships in this harbor might be arranged with port-holes and Quaker
guns, or dummies, and anchored near the line of boo in, apparently for
its defense. These dummies were found quite effective in retarding the
enemy's movements at Centreville and the Potomac border.
Respectfully, your obedient servant,
G. T. BEAUREGARD.
CHARLESTON, S. 0., November 4, 1802.
FRANCIS W. PICKENS,
Governor of the State of South Carolina, Columbia, S. C. :
DEAR SIR: I received several days since a copy of communication
addressed to you on the 25th ultimo by the Secretary of War, accept
ing four regiments of the reserve force of the State of South Carolina,
to be organized in the manner therein specified; a manner I trust that
will not be an obstacle to the early muster of those regiments. I beg
to assure you that no time can be prudently lost in securing the services
of these troops, which I desire to post as soon as possible as follows :
Two regiments, under Brig. Gen. W. S. Walker, in the Third Military
District, at or near Pocotaligo, and the other two near Georgetown, in
a new military district, which I desire to establish, under command of
Brigadier-General Trapier.
Respectfully, your obedient servant,
G. T. BEAUREGARD.
SPECIAL ORDERS, ^ ADJT. AND INSPECTOR GENERAL'S OFFICE,
No. 258. J Richmond, Va., November 4, 1862.
* ******
III. The command of General Beauregard, besides the Department
of South Carolina and Georgia, will embrace the Departments of East
and Middle Florida ; the former to comprise that part of Florida east
of the Suwannee River; the latter west of the Suwannee River to the
Ohoctawhatchee River. Brigadier-General Finegan is assigned to the
command of the Department of East Florida, habitual headquarters at
Lake City, and a commander for the Department of Middle Florida
will hereafter be designated, whose habitual headquarters will be at
Quhicy, Fla.
****** *
By command of Secretary of War :
JNO. WITHERS,
Assistant Adjutant- General.
GENERAL ORDERS, ) HDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF S. G. AND GA.,
No. 88. J Charleston, S. C., November 4, 1802.
I. No personal application whatever will be considered at these head
quarters ; and pending the consideration and action at these headquar
ters on any application for leave of absence the applicant will not be
permitted to leave his company, regiment, or post in order to make a
66G COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAI-. XXVL
personal application at these headquarters in support of his written
one, nor will he be allowed to do so indirectly through another party,
except in cases of surgeon's certificates, upon which the safety of the
applicant may depend.
II. All applications or communications must be m writing and regu
larly transmitted to these headquarters through the ascending channel
of communication or they will not be considered.
III. Certain batteries in the First Military District will be designated
and known as follows :
Enfilade Battery, Sullivan's Island, as Battery Bee.
Beach Inlet Battery. Sullivan's Island, as Battery Marshall.
Morris Island Battery as Battery Wagner.
McLeod's Battery, James Island, as Battery Means.
Lawton Battery, James Island, as Battery Glover.
By command of General Beauregard :
THOMAS JORDAN,
Chief of Staff and Assistant Adjutant- General.
SPECIAL ORDERS, ) HDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF S. C. AND GA.,
No. 213. f Charleston, S. C., November 4, 1862.
**#*** *
IV. Forts Surnter and Moultrie and all the batteries on Sullivan's
and Morris Islands will be at once provided and kept supplied with 200
rounds of ammunition for each gun of their respective armaments.
***** * *
By command of General Beauregard :
THOMAS JORDAN,
Chief of Staff and Assistant Adjutant- General.
COLUMBIA, S. C., November 5, 1862.
President DAVIS :
We have two very fine regiments from this State with Bragg. Per
haps they might be ordered to Charleston. I only suggest it because
you may not be aware of their being with Bragg.
F. W. PICKETS.
RICHMOND, VA., November 5, 1862.
J. F. BOZEMAN, Mayor of Columbus, Ga. :
SIR : I have the honor to inform you that the department is fully
aware of the importance of defending the Chattahoochee River and the
city of Columbus, and has taken the necessary steps to provide for their
defense. The country between the Suwannee and Chocta whatchee Rivers,
in Florida, together with Southwestern Georgia, has been thrown into
a military district, which General Howell Cobb will command. The
experience, energy, and stake in the country of that officer afford the
best guarantees that he will neglect nothing for its defense. As you
have been informed already a competent engineer is engaged, and will
prosecute whatever system of defense may be determined on.
An authority is herewith inclosed, as requested, permitting Captain
Wiikins to raise a company of men, not liable to conscription, for the
defense of Columbus and its approaches.
Your obedient servant,
n. W T> AX^fU PH
CHAP. XXVI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. CONFEDERATE. 667
HEADQUARTERS, STATE OF SOUTH CAROLINA,
Columbia, November 5, 1862.
General BEAUREGARD :
GENERAL : I received yours inclosing the report of the officers on the
harbor obstructions and defenses. When I was in Charleston a few
weeks ago I visited, with General Gist and Dr. Cheves, these obstruc
tions, and where they were being prepared I then thought, and so ex
pressed myself, that the tide was too strong and the channel so deep
that no reliance could be placed upon those chains, floating logs, &c.
The great reliance for successful defense is first in brave and skillful
fighting, and then upon bringing from Fort Sumter and the batteries
opposite a concentrated fire of heavy cannon upon the same point at
the same moment. With this view the batteries on Sullivan's Island,
recently erected, mounting 10 inch colurnbiads, are of immense advan
tage. If some thirty heavy cannon can be brought to bear at the same
moment, and, by signals, fired upon a given object at the same time from
three sides, it would be difficult for any boat to pass it. Then the two
gunboats, particularly the Chicora, heavily ironed as they are, will also
be of great additional strength. The bow guns of these boats, being
7-inch rifled and carrying a ball of 125 pounds, are very formidable de
fenses for the center of the channel. 1 also received yours asking for
the iron and other material on the old floating battery. I answered it
immediately by telegram, and transferred it all to your order.
Your telegram urging the propriety of Southern Governors meeting
the Northwestern Governors at Memphis, to see if propositions of peace
could not be suggested, I also received. I cannot see how it can be prac
tically carried out, and have grave doubts as to any favorable results ;
but having occasion to write Governor Harris, of Tennessee, I mentioned
the matter to him freely, by way of asking his opinion. I did the same
also to Governor Brown. If Bragg's army had remained on the Ohio
in force much might perhaps have been done in this way, but he has
retreated, and that has weakened our cause greatly in the Northwestern
States. These States would not be able now to make any separate
move. I doubt not but that finally the Northwestern States will sepa
rate from the Middle and Northern States. I received yours also as to
a cipher to telegraph in, and it may become necessary.
When I was in Charleston, in the first part of last month, you will
recollect I called your attention to the manner in which the negroes we
had sent to work on the fortifications were managed. I complained that
they were not divided off and assigned to the control or command of
practical men, acquainted with negroes and how to get work done, &c.
You observed that you intended to have them divided off and strictly
attended to. I know it is almost impossible to have anything done
right, particularly if not in the direct line of military duty and service.
There has been great irregularity in the manner of executing the requi
sition for negroes. Parts of neighborhoods have been taken down and
others not even notified. The negroes have been retained beyond the
time they were taken down for, and this too without giving any notice
to their owners or agents. You know that all such things produce great
dissatisfaction and complaint. If notice were given in advance when
negroes are absolutely required to remain as a militarj- necessity it
would be better. We have sent down in all some 8,000 negroes, and
this produces in the aggregate much derangement in gathering crops,
so necessary for winter support. I hope it will not be long now before
\ on cun discharge all that belong to the country and impress those who
are in and around the city to finish, as the work necessary to get in
CG8 COASTS OF S. C., GA., AND MID. AND EAST FLA. [CHAI>. XXVI.
provisions is not required in and around the city, and there are many
necessarily idle all the time in such a place. It strikes me too that
after cool weather our soldiers could be directed to do much work, such
as is done in other armies. I know, when in January, February, and
March, 1861, 1 had to have so much done on Morris Island and around
the different points, that the volunteers there did far the greater part
of the efficient work. I tried to make a system last spring by which a
corps of negroes could be attached permanently to the army as spades
men and axmen, under military discipline and army regulations. I still
think it could be done, and it would be far better than to derange agri
cultural labor in the rural districts by constantly calling for negro labor
at times, occasionally deeply injurious to raising or housing crops.
I may be mistaken, but I do not think any great land attack can be
made upon our coast or city unless Lee's army is first disposed of. We
have difficulties, but they have them also. In any case I trust you are
prepared to meet them by land or by water. I telegraphed you as to what
arms and forces were proposed to order to report to you. We have
ordered out four regiments of State Reserves for ninety days to report to
you. I hope we can send them soon, but scattered over such a wide
extent of country as they are, and never having been called together as
regiments, it will be difficult to send them as soon as we desire. I may
be mistaken, but 1 hope the force now ordered to you will perhaps fur
nish 2,400 men. Their officers are intelligent and efficient gentlemen.
One of the regiments is commanded by Colonel Ryan, who is at Barn-
well Court-House, and if you desire it his regiment can be ordered to
Pocataligo as easy as to come here and more so. If you desire it can
be ordered directly there. Be so good as to let me know. Colonel Cash
commands another, and part of his is already on the Pee Dee in State
service and has been for some time, to defend that stream at a point
where we have obstructions and a State battery at Stone's Landing, and
I would most respectfully suggest that he be kept in that region with
his regiment for defense of the Georgetown and Santee country too.
With great respect, I am, very truly, yours.
F. W. PICKENS.
GENERAL ORDERS, ) HDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF S. C. AND GA.,
No. 89. f Charleston, S. (7., November 5, 18G2.
**•**•*
II. The following officers are announced on the staff of the general
commanding and will be obeyed and respected accordingly, namely :
Maj. D. B. Harris as chief engineer of the department.
Capt. William H. Echols as chief engineer of the State of South Caro
lina.
Capt. John McCrady as chief engineer of the State of Georgia.
By command of General Beauregard :
THOMAS JORDAN,
Chief of Staff and Assistant Adjutant- General.
SIGNAL OFFICE,
Charleston. November 6, 18G2.
Brig. Gen. THOMAS JORDAN,
Assistant Adjutant -General and Chief of Staff:
GENERAL: I have the honor respectfully to submit for the consider
ation of the general commanding the following suggestions :
CIIAI*. xxvi.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. — CONFEDERATE. 6G9
The material of the signal corps, formed as it is of educated and re
liable men, affords the opportunity of employing them to advantage as
magnetic telegraph operators, the duties of which position are strictly
germane to their present occupation as signal men, and could be ac
quired with comparative ease and celerity.
With a corps of men thus thoroughly instructed in all the scientific
methods for the early transmission of information the general com
manding would have at hand the means of taking possession of any
telegraphic line already constructed, of attaching a portable apparatus
to any points of such line near which his troops may be operating, and
of constructing new lines or ramifications of lines to points either of
strategic value or value as lookouts.
An operator under these circumstances would be always within
reach, and being under military supervision, could be more relied upon
as being at his post when required.
In point of economy it will also recommend itself to the general, as
the operator will receive but his pay as signal-man, which is less than
half that of the civil operator.
The use of the galvanic battery would also tend to fit some of the
corps for the responsible duty of igniting such torpedoes or other marine
explosives to be fired by the electric spark as may be in contemplation ;
also the management of the electric light.
If this suggestion should meet with the approval of the general two
portable apparatus and a teacher for the manual operation would be
required.
JOS. MANIGATJLT,
Assistant Adjutant- General and Signal Officer.
HDQRS. DEPT. OF SOUTH CAROLINA AND GEORGIA,
Charleston, S. C., November 6, 1862.
O. P. FANNIN, GAY, ALLEN, and other members of Committee,
Blaltely, Early County, Ga.:
GENTLEMEN: Your communication of the llth ultimo, addressed to
the Secretary of War, has been referred to the commanding general of
the department, under whose instructions I have to say that at an early
day he noticed the importance of closing the Chattahoochee to the gun
boats of the Abolitionists, and before this would have detached a com
petent engineer to make a reconnaissance of the river to discover the
best position for obstructions and batteries to command them, but so
far he has been unable to detach an officer from the pressing needs of
the service in connection with the defense of Charleston and Savannah,
more immediately threatened by and accessible to the enemy than your
vicinity.
Be assured your river shall not be lost sight of or neglected. Your
citizens meantime may do much by collecting accurate information
about the best locations for obstructions. Any engineer sent to your
region will be instructed to call on and communicate freely with jou.
Respectfully, your obedient servant,
THOMAS JORDAN,
Chief of Staff.
SPECIAL ORDERS, » HDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF S. C. AND GA.,
No. 216. f Charleston, S. C\, November 6, 1862.
##**#* #
IV. A military district, to be known as the Fourth Military District,
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